The Ultimate Supplement Stack For Detoxification - From An Integrative Practitioner
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In today's world we are exposed to a multitude of toxins that come from the environment, household cleaners, cosmetics, prescription and over-the-counter meds, gasoline, alcohol, pesticides and fuel oil to name a few. Over time they can accumulate in our body and have a negative impact on our health. The human body is naturally built to continually detoxify itself through the liver, kidneys and other systems, however a good supplement stack can aid and enhance the body in its detoxification process.
Before we dive into the various supplements that aid detoxification it is important to first of all address the following:
- Hydration: Make sure to drink 2-3 litres of water a day to help support the kidneys in flushing out toxins. A tip I always recommend is to start the day with warm water and lemon to help flush out the toxins the liver that has been working hard clearing out during the night.
- Diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like leafy greens, berries and citrus fruits that are rich in antioxidants.
- Exercise: Keeping an active lifestyle promotes circulation and sweating aids in the elimination of toxins. Saunas are a great way to eliminate toxins through sweat.
The Supplement Stack:
Milk Thistle
Benefits: Liver Support
Milk thistle has an active ingredient called Silymarin which helps the liver regenerate cells and reduce oxidative stress. By making the liver more efficient it in turn enhances the body’s ability to eliminate and process toxins.
Fibre
Benefits: Eliminates waste
Fibre, similarly to activated charcoal and Chlorella, binds to toxins and excretes them. It is a great way to detox the body whilst making sure the toxins are not reabsorbed in the digestive tract. It is important to take fibre with plenty of water in order for them to move efficiently through the body as they may otherwise have the opposite effect and lead to constipation.
Activated Charcoal
Benefits: Binds to Toxins
Activated Charcoal binds to toxins in the gastrointestinal tract preventing its absorption as it gets removed. It's great for detoxing heavy metals from the body or other harmful substances. Many individuals recommend using it after a colonic irrigation to bind any leftover toxins so they don’t get reabsorbed and flushed.
It is important not to take activated charcoal with other medications as it is highly porous and will bind and flush those out too.
Bitters No.9
Benefits: Kidney and Liver Support
A comprehensive Liposomal blend of 9 bitter herbs and essential oils designed to gently stimulate bile production, enhance digestive function, and support detoxification. Dandelion root has diuretic properties which helps flush toxins out of the body through increased urine output. Dandelion can be taken in a tincture, pills or even in a tea.
Magnesium Citrate
Benefits: Cell Detoxification and Bowel Movement
Magnesium is responsible for over 300 enzymatic reactions including detoxification. It helps with bowel regularity which is an essential part of the detoxification and elimination of toxins. Similarly Magnesium Citrate to be beneficial if constipation is of concern.
Chlorella
Benefits: Heavy Metal Detox
Chlorella is a green algae known for its powerhouse effects on detoxification. Similar to activated charcoal it also binds to heavy metals such as mercury and lead and helps eliminate them from the body.
Prebiotics and Probiotics
Benefits: Gut Health
A healthy gut is important in order to detox properly as it processes toxins and stops them re-entering the bloodstream. A good probiotic will maintain a healthy gut microbiome and replenish beneficial bacteria.
NAC - N-Acetylcysteine
Benefits: Boost Glutathione Levels
Glutathione is the master antioxidant which is critical for detoxification. NAC is the precursor to glutathione supporting its production and helping neutralise free radicals and toxins particularly in the liver and lungs.
Turmeric (Curcumin)
Benefits: Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant
Turmeric fights inflammation in the body. It supports liver health in releasing toxin build up. Its active ingredient, Curcumin, increases the body’s natural detoxification process whilst combating oxidative stress. Turmeric is usually taken with Piperine to increase absorption.
Green Tea Extract
Benefits: Antioxidant
Green tea is a powerhouse antioxidant. It is rich in Catechins that support the liver and aid in detoxification. Its natural caffeine content boosts energy aiding in the detoxification process, counterbalanced by L-theanine that calms the body and keeps unpleasant coffee jitters at bay.
Detoxification is a complex process but with the right diet, exercise and supplement stack you can support your body’s natural ability to eliminate toxins and cleanse and rejuvenate resulting in improved energy, mental clarity and a new sense of overall well being. Always make sure to consult your healthcare professional before starting any new supplement especially if you are taking medications as they may interact.
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This article is for informational purposes only, even if and regardless of whether it features the advice of physicians and medical practitioners. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. The views expressed in this article are the views of the expert and do not necessarily represent the views of Healf
