Whole Body Detox
We all know that the liver is our main detoxification organ. But did you know that the body has 6 detoxification organs in total? Today I'm introducing and taking you through each organ, and how you can support it's detoxification process!
Skin
The skin is the body’s largest organ and has a variety of functions including excretion. Waste products that are water-soluble can be eliminated through the sweat glands. When we exercise, our circulation and lymph move, our breathing rate increases, and we consume more water in the process. My favourite way to sweat is via app!
Lungs
Our lungs are exposed to many toxins on a daily basis – from indoor and outdoor pollution to cigarette smoke. A mucus lining from the nose to the bronchi protects the lungs. As toxins become trapped on the mucus membrane, hair-like structures will constantly move the dirt and toxins back up the lungs to be coughed up or exhaled. Deep breathing from the belly is a simple way to get fresh oxygen into the lungs and exhale unwanted toxins.
Lymph
The lymphatic system is part of both the circulatory and immune system, as it contains many lymphatic glands, nodes, organs, and vessels. The vessels also carry lymph fluid throughout the body. Its main function is to cleanse toxins and protect our bodies from invaders. The lymph will in fact work to carry the waste away from the tissues and into the bloodstream where it then passes through the spleen. The movement of lymph fluid relies on our muscles and joints. When it becomes stationary, it can affect immunity. An easy way to help lymph fluid circulate is by dry-brushing the skin – start at the feet and move up towards your heart.
Liver
The liver is the body’s main detoxification organ, as it’s involved in over 400 enzymatic reactions. The liver filters everything (good and bad) that happens to be in our blood. The liver begins its function at ‘Phase 1 Detoxification,’ where enzymes and nutrients are used to neutralize toxins so they become water-soluble. At the ‘Phase 2 Detoxification,’ amino acids will attach to the toxins rendering them harmless and help guide them out of the body. The toxins will then permanently leave the body through the colon or kidneys.
When we are exposed to more toxins than normal, the liver may become burdened and becomes ineffective at doing its job. Castor oil packs over the liver can help absorb nutrients, remove toxins, and stimulate circulation. Keep in mind that if you are pregnant or on your period, castor oil packs should be avoided.
Intestines
As food travels from the stomach to the small intestine, the latter will absorb nutrients while letting the wastes and toxins pass to the large intestine and colon. Sometimes, toxins can actually stick to the colon. Fibre can pull the stuck toxins off the colon wall and help permanently eliminate them from the body. Thus, increasing our fibre intake in the form of fruits and vegetables is a great idea. If you have issues with your digestive function, please consult your health care provider before increasing your intake of fibrous foods as they may aggravate symptoms of conditions like inflammatory bowel disease.
Wonder what your stool is telling you? Check out this infographic!
Kidneys
The final organs associated with detoxification are the kidneys. They function to remove wastes (including waste from our liver) which have passed through the bloodstream. Water is a key ingredient to key function as it clears waste out of the body and keeps the kidneys healthy. Thus it’s critical to drink enough water (skip the dehydrating caffeinated and alcoholic beverages) to help the kidney work optimally.
Squeezing the juice of half a lemon in your morning glass of warm water will help stimulate the liver, as well as encourage the kidney to rid the body of toxins.
Final Thoughts
Detoxification doesn't need to be difficult, in fact it can be incredibly easy when you have the right support! If you're looking for the best detox supplements, book an appointment with a Naturopathic Doctor!