By Dr. Jenna Dye,
Naturopathic Physician
The holidays are over and it’s 2021! This new year brings New Year’s resolutions and goals. A big part of my practice in the New Year includes support for patients with cleansing/detoxification protocols, specifically related to the post-holiday season. This can include detox plans and diet modifications to support the immune system, cleanse and obtain optimal health.
Detoxification is the process of clearing toxins from the body. A healthy functioning body has the capacity to handle a certain level of toxins day to day, however, there are many factors that can hinder our body’s ability to detoxify and support a healthy immune system. Toxins can be found in our environment, products we use on our skin and clothes, as well as food we ingest. An overload of toxins can weigh down our immune system and accumulate in our cells. This accumulation negatively affects our immune system and can lead to chronic illnesses such as autoimmune diseases, allergies, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and skin conditions.
Our body detoxifies through many different ways:
• The gastrointestinal system: liver, gallbladder and intestines
• The urinary system: kidneys and urine
• Respiratory system: lungs, nose, and sinuses
• Integumentary system: skin (sweat)
• Lymphatic system
Healthy Detox/Cleansing Tips:
• Eat organic and fresh when possible.
• Drink filtered water and drink at least half your body weight in ounces each day.
• Eliminate sugar, refined foods, processed foods, canned foods, salt, coffee, cured meats, organ meats, alcohol and nicotine.
• Include whole foods such as fruits and vegetables, nuts, healthy oils, seeds and healthy fats.
• If you have food sensitivities, it is important to eliminate them during any detox. Doing this will help decrease inflammation and allow the body to detox more efficiently.
• Consume dark leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and dandelion greens. These support the liver and help promote healthy digestion.
• Regular daily bowel movements will aid in the elimination of toxins.
• Exercise: During any detox, regular exercise of at least 30 minutes per day is beneficial.
• Breathing: Take the time to breathe; we often forget this part. Take breath breaks often and breathe deeply through the nose and exhale through the mouth.
• Keep sinuses and lungs healthy during cleansing; daily neti pot use or nasal rinses can be helpful.
• Sleep: Your body needs proper rest. Seven to eight hours of sleep will help facilitate the cleansing.
Cleansing/detoxing can help the body restore itself and help maintain excellent health and wellness. There are many different detoxification protocols. It is always best to check with your doctor to see which one would be safest and most beneficial for you. Naturopathic physicians can individualize treatment by supporting foundational health, treating underlying health conditions, and developing specific detox and cleansing protocols specific to your health.
Dr. Jenna Dye is a licensed naturopathic physician. Her role is to support the body’s foundation to restore and maintain optimal health. Together with her patients, this is achieved by identifying and removing barriers that may be impacting health while creating a healing environment. For more information, visit drjennadye.com.
