Health & Wellness Detox (April 2001) by: Anneliese London

Health & Wellness

Q. I have bad breath, joint pain, poor memory, low energy, yeast infections, stomach bloating, gas, poor digestion and constipation. I was told that my body was full of toxins. Is this possible? What do I do about it?

A. It is possible that you are experiencing some toxicity. You may benefit from a good detox. program but first seek the advice of your health care professional. Toxins are acquired by breathing them, ingesting them, or by coming into physical contact with them. Most people are toxic to some degree because we live in a polluted society. There are more than 1,500 bacterial and chemical indoor-air pollutants. Inadequate ventilation, as well as recycled-air systems, don't allow these pollutants to disperse. This results in increased exposure. Water pollutants, radiation, and nuclear waste generate powerful chemicals that contribute to our over all state of toxicity. Food additives, allergens, and drugs can also add to this problem. Internally, our body produces substances such as undigested food and waste by-products. Microbes such are intestinal bacteria, yeasts, and parasites produce substances that are harmful for our health. Toxic build up is the main cause of many diseases says Elson M. Haas, M.D.. In his book, THE DETOX DIET, he defines a toxin as any substance that creates irritating and/or harmful effects in the body, undermining health and stressing biochemical or organic function. A healthy human body can handle certain levels of toxins from external and internal pollution. Toxins that are not counteracted or eliminated can irritate or inflame cells and tissues, blocking normal functions in all areas of the body. It is the excess intake or production of toxins or a reduction in the elimination process that causes health problems. Some nutritionists advise that a complete internal cleansing program produces the best results. This involves cleansing the blood, tissues, cells, bowels, lungs, skin, kidney and lymph glands. Detoxification says, Dr. Haas is the process of clearing toxins from the body, neutralizing them, or transforming them. It's easy to understand that excess alcohol, sugar, nicotine, caffeine, drugs and chemicals can create toxicity. But it's not easy to avoid these substances. Reducing toxin intake and enhancing toxin elimination is a challenge for most people. Healing our abuses requires motivation from within to change unwanted habits. This may require that we address the unconscious emotions which may perpetuate the problem. Resources and products are available to use in the healing and health enhancement of the body. The main things to look for as you choose ways to help yourself are; efficacy, affordablity (beware of costly programs, consult your health food store specialist or nutritionist), and convenience. The following suggestions are simple and effective ways to detoxify:

• Cleanse the liver. Milk thistle's (Silybum marianum) reliability in supporting the liver health has been well confirmed in a variety of clinical trials. The plant's constituents slow down the entry of viruses or toxins. It is also effective in treating liver damage and disease. Dandelion root also supports health by stimulating the liver to filter out poisons and release bile. LIVERITE (888-425-LIVE) is an excellent dietary supplement that aids the liver's cleansing and detoxifying process.
• Use antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E to block the further formation of free radicals. In his book, SPONTANEOUS HEALING, Andrew Weil, M.D., suggests 1,000 to 2,000 mg. of Vitamin C and 400-800 iu of natural vitamin E.
• Do aerobic exercise to eliminate to toxins through the sweat glands in the skin. Exercise also increases blood circulation and invigorates the lymphatic system. Massage has similar beneficial effects.
• Consider using a packaged program for cleansing and digestive care. These products are formulated to give herbal support, eliminate parasites, yeast, and provide vitamin, amino acid and enzymes. Ask your health food professional to help you select a reliable one. A popular one that many health care practitioners use is PARAZYME and PARAGONE (800-830-4778).
• Use herbal support to promote bowel and liver function, urine formation and lymph drainage. Urinary tonic herbs that help the kidneys remove wastes include stinging nettles and dandelion leaf. Red clover blossom and burdock root is used for blood cleansing. Echinacea is taken for lymph cleansing and casara sagrada and oregon grape root is used as a colon cleanser. Wormwood and black walnut can be used to expel parasites and pau d' arco (antifungal) can inhibit vaginal yeast overgrowth.
• Fiber is your friend and wheat bran, flaxseed meal and psyllium are good fiber sources. Eat high fiber foods to promote proper movement of feces through the G.I. tract. Get at least 100g. of fiber daily.

This column is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. It is for entertainment and educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice.

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