How do I Choose the Best Detoxification Program?

You can choose the best detoxification program in a variety of ways, including doing research and speaking with your doctor. Some plans, usually found in books or in kits purchased in a grocery store or pharmacy, may not be safe or effective and should be avoided or used only sparingly. It’s a good idea for you to look into whole foods that have been shown to remove excess waste from the body rather than buy into a fad diet or detox plan.

If you have a specific problem, such as a parasitic infection, you should speak with a doctor before beginning a detoxification program. You may need medication to rid your body of the condition. Afterward, there are supplementation and additional cleanses you can try that may help keep additional problems at bay. These may include vitamins, herbs, or foods that contain antiseptic properties, such as garlic and vitamin E.

Those without known health problems can have more freedom when choosing a detoxification program. You may find a wide variety of options in your local pharmacy, but you should steer clear of laxative-based colon cleanses. These are generally ineffective and may cause dehydration and digestive upset. The best type of program should include vitamins and whole foods that have been shown to speed the removal of toxins from the body. These can include foods with antioxidants like blueberries, vitamin C, and foods that are high in fiber to cleanse the colon naturally.

There is some evidence to suggest that apple cider vinegar may help remove aluminum and heavy metals from the body. You can take this as part of a healthy diet detoxification program. It should only be taken diluted with water, usually using one or two tablespoons with eight to ten ounces (227 to 284 ml) of water. If you have low potassium levels or are on high blood pressure or diabetes medications, you should consult your doctor before taking apple cider vinegar regularly.

The most important aspect of any detoxification program is to drink plenty of clean water. Water not only speeds toxins through the body by moving them through the kidneys, but it also helps to keep the digestive system working properly. Eight to ten servings per day is recommended.

Juicing programs have also been heavily touted as having an detoxifying affect on the body. These can deliver important antioxidants and other vitamins, but they can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Fasting may slow down the metabolism and should not be done for more than one to three days at a time. Teas and supplements are also sold to promote detoxification, most of them containing mixtures of certain vitamins. These may be beneficial, but should be checked out by your doctor or pharmacist prior to use.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not engage in a detoxification program without your doctor’s consent and supervision. Toxins can enter the bloodstream in higher than normal quantities during the detoxification period as they are carried out through the endocrine and digestive tracts. This could potentially pass them on to your unborn or breastfeeding baby.