The health problems that are increasingly plaguing us such as obesity, IBS and many others, are the result of an environment saturated with toxins. For this reason, experts are urging us to cleanse and detoxify our bodies.
Cleansing and detoxification are two different but related processes. The former is the elimination of toxic matter, stored wastes and other harmful substances from the body. The latter is more specific as it refers to the process by which the body transforms the harmful toxins into a less harmful form. Both cleansing and detoxification are total body processes and there are seven channels of elimination involved the liver, lungs, skin, blood, bowel, lymphatic system, and kidneys.
Every organ that does the work of elimination needs certain substances in order for it to do its specific job. The liver for instance uses amino acids and sulfur compounds. The colon, on the other hand, is supported by fiber contained in the diet. Fiber not only supports regular bowel movement but absorbs excess toxins and flushes these out of the system. Unfortunately, because of our lifestyle and environmental changes which are beyond our control, we are not able to provide our bodies with the nutritional tools and support it needs to properly cleanse and detoxify.
A look at history tells us that humans have always known the importance of cleansing and detoxification. Our ancestors practiced cleansing, fasting and purification rituals to eliminate toxins from the body caused by their lifestyle and the environment in which they lived. At the same time, they also took care of their diet and nutrition to make sure they were well-nourished during and after cleansing.
An example of this were the Europeans and Americans of earlier eras who took fermented drinks such as Beet Kvass and Rejuvelac as well as tonics like fortified vegetable juices. These are roughly the equivalent of modern day vitamins because people took them to support their health and well-being, and as an energy source when they fasted or when seasons changed. In India, people also had a similar practice. In the Ayurvedic tradition they had a cleansing method called Pancha Karma, used in seasonal dietary rejuvenation programs. People took part in Pancha Karma while at the same time taking herbs and making changes in their lifestyles.
We who are living in these modern times can learn from our healthy ancestors. There are necessary changes we need to make in our diet so that our channels of elimination are provided with what they need to perform their important functions. Experts in the field of digestive health recommend a well-balanced diet rich in whole foods that are high in vitamins, minerals, macronutrients, phyto-nutrients and antioxidants.
A practical application would be to have salad with your smoothie for breakfast. You can also take a fiber supplement to help your colon as it cleanses and detoxifies your system. Such simple changes can do a lot in improving your health. Not only will these practices strengthen and nourish your body, they will also greatly enhance the cellular processes required for health and survival.
Author Resource:-
Charles Volcolatte is a health and weight loss researcher for www.skinnyasap.com. He writes and researches actively on Dieting Products Information and shares his knowledge at www.skinnyasap.com where he works as a staff writer.