Detox & Cleanse
Humans are exposed to toxins on a daily basis. Chemical substances that are usually foreign to the body, toxins can cause harm to cells, organs, and overall health when present in intolerable amounts. They can come from the air we breathe and the water we drink — they can also be present in the foods we consume.
Eat A Diet Rich in Antioxidants
A healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables provides us with not only the nutrients but also the antioxidants necessary to assist the body in eliminating toxic chemicals. Antioxidants can also help the body repair any cells that may have been inadvertently damaged throughout the process.
Supplements that May Help
Activated Charcoal
Commonly used in emergency rooms across the world as an antidote to the ingestion of toxic amounts of illegal or prescription drugs, charcoal is given in an attempt to minimize the number of toxins that are absorbed into the gut. In theory, it may also be useful in preventing toxins that may be absorbed through diet.
Recommended:Now Activated Charcoal
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria and, in some cases, beneficial yeast strains. Toxins enter the body when they are ingested through the intestines. Those with gut issues, like irritable bowel syndrome, chronic diarrhea, and bloating, commonly have a condition called leaky gut, which results in absorption issues. A poor intestinal barrier results in increased absorption of toxins and heavy metal, if present. We can optimize our gut health by eating healthy foods and by taking probiotics and prebiotics.
Recommended: Vivomixx Powerful Probiotics
Psyllium Husk
Psyllium husk comes from the plantago ovata plant. The husk has been used in traditional medicine in areas of India and China for more than a thousand years. It is a common supplement used to help reduce high cholesterol and alleviate chronic constipation. Regular use also helps remove toxins from the gut that build up when one does not regularly evacuate.
Recommended: Swanson Psyllium Husk
N-acetylcysteine (NAC)
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can be very helpful in preventing excess oxidative damage to the liver. For those who regularly drink alcohol, or take prescription or over-the-counter drugs, like paracetamol on a regular basis, this daily supplement should be considered.
According to a 2014 study in the British Journal of Nutrition, NAC could help protect the liver against oxidative damage. A 2016 study in Pharmaceutical Biology study also showed that NAC could help prevent inflammation and benefit those with a fatty liver, a condition common in those who consume excess alcohol, sugar, simple carbohydrates, and fast foods
Recommended: Now Foods NAC
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle, whose active ingredient is silibinin, has been used for centuries for liver health. A 2013 study reported that milk thistle could help protect the liver against toxins and inflammation. It can be taken on its own or in addition to the NAC supplement.
Recommended: Swanson Milk Thistle
Spirulina
Spirulina is considered a superfood by many. It is an easily digestible nutritional supplement, which belongs to a family of blue-green algae and can be taken in a pill or powder form. Spirulina comes from a type of bacteria called cyanobacterium.
Recommended: Synergy Supergreens
Turmeric
Turmeric, also known as curcuma longa or Indian saffron, is a rooted plant of the ginger family, often consumed for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and digestive-health properties. Curcumin, the primary molecule found in turmeric, is believed to provide many of the health benefits. While many people have used turmeric as a spice to enhance their food for over the past 4,000 years, turmeric has played an important role in medicine and anti-aging as well.
Turmeric can help prevent cellular oxidation, believed by many to be the main cause of the aging process, according to a 2016 report in Diseases. A 2017 study in Neural Regeneration
Research showed that turmeric helps also protect the nerve connections in the brain from inflammation and oxidative damage, both common after toxin exposure.
Recommended: Now Foods Turmeric
Note: This does not constitute medical advice, always consult your GP if you are concerned about your health.