Detoxification
Detoxification is the process by which toxins (e.g. parasites, pathogens, pollutants, synthetic chemicals, heavy metals, and other forms of foreign matter) are eliminated from our bodies. While our bodies naturally detox harmful compounds through the liver, kidneys, intestines, lungs, skin and lymphatic system, some genetic mutations or an unhealthy lifestyle can inhibit their ability to eliminate all toxins. In order to help the body remove toxins, many people turn to various detoxification treatments, including those listed below.
Detoxification should always be done under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Moving toxins through the body can have negative health consequences if done too quickly or if the body's detoxification pathways are blocked.
As with any type of full wellness support, it is important to fully research and form your own opinion on detoxification in partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.
Photo by Melissa Walker Horn on Unsplash
Detoxification Treatments
Learn more about the various detoxification treatments used by the people featured in our Stories of Hope.
Alkaline Water
A type of spring water that has a higher pH level than tap water and is said to offer more key minerals needed by the body to function properly, including calcium, potassium, sodium and magnesium. Safe when consumed in moderation, but too much can also negatively impact your body's pH balance.
Hydro Massage
A high-pressured heated water massage which provides the body with enough pressure to stimulate blood and lymph circulation, helping the body release harmful toxins through its pores.
An ionic footbath is a small tub of warm water with an ionizing current in which you soak your feet. The ionizing current is said to elicit a relaxation response in the body which then produces an ongoing detoxification release for the next 3-5 days, enhancing the body's ability to expel toxins through urine, stool and sweat.
Reflexology Machine Massage
Foot reflexology is the practice of applying pressure to specific reflex points on the feet which are connected to different systems in the body. This practice supports sluggish organs by stimulating nerve function, encouraging the release of toxins and increasing the flow of blood and nutrients throughout the body.
Zeolite
Zeolite is a volcanic mineral that when ingested as a properly cleansed supplement, travels through the body attracting and trapping toxins. Since your body does not store zeolite, it excretes it and the toxins that are become bound to it.
Detoxification Centers & Programs
Below is a list of detoxification programs, centers or specialists used by the people featured in our Stories of Hope.
Orion Township, Michigan
Provides on-site detoxification treatments as well as a 35-day program that includes a lifestyle diet guide, supplements, external detox process and alkaline water. (Online detox program is being launched May 1, 2019.)
By Rachael Link, MS, RD
by Adda Bjarnadottir, MS