It’s January and detox is a hot topic.  Both with supporters and critics.

I even saw a local bar promoting drinking gin to RETOX this January.  And follow Tryanuary  (trying a new drink) instead of Dry January.  *face palm*

Detox. A small word that can provoke BIG reactions and start heated debates.

So what’s my take here at KPHQ?

 

Why Might I Need A Detox?

There are many people who think our bodies can become overloaded with toxins.  I’m one of those people.

Toxins are poisonous substances, which are often man-made.

They could come from:-

• poor diet
• pollution
• cigarette smoke
• pesticides
• food additives/preservatives,
• alcohol and caffeine
• street drugs, over-the-counter and prescribed meds

They impact our health and our hormones.

If I handed you that list, what would you say? Most of you would agree that reducing some of these things make sense for good health.  Especially after Christmas and New Year.  And at any time.

Our organs that deal with “waste” in the body have to work hard to get rid of harmful and unwanted substances. Especially our liver. So loving your liver is a good idea. For the skinny on how to love up your liver, take a look at this fab blog . It talks about liver and hormone health.

Make sure your digestive system is working well too.  You want to be able to er em “get rid” of the unwanted substances i.e. pooping them out.  Steps 1 to 4 in the list below will help A LOT.

Detox promoters also tell us that detox can help us lose weight, reduce cellulite, improve skin, reduce bloating and make us feel like a million dollars.

Er, I’d like a pint of that please.  NO – make that TWO.

I’m not sure those things can be guaranteed.  I DO know (from my own and client experiences) that living “cleaner” can have big impacts on health, happiness and hormones.

But I’m not sure you need to resort to extremes to gain health benefits.

Goodbye juice fasts and coffee enemas and hello real food and sensible self-care. Although I do like a good juice myself.  But my version of a January detox doesn’t rely on extreme measures.

 

The KP Version of a “January Detox”

1. Eat a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, wholegrains, lean and healthy proteins and good fats.  Choose unsprayed and organic where possible.  Personally, I prefer to reduce dairy (mucus forming), wheat (bloating) and red meat.

 

2. Drink plenty of filtered water.  Also herbal teas like nettle, fennel or peppermint.

 

3. Avoid or reduce alcohol, street drugs, caffeine, refined sugar, saturated fats, processed foods and those with additives , preservatives and GMOs.

 

4. Take regular, gentle exercise.  Think dog walking or dancing not necessarily training for an “Iron Woman” event.

 

5. Reduce stress.  Only you know the most effective ways for you. Make changes at home/work to remove or reduce stress? Use coping strategises like exercise, relaxation or meditation? 

 

6. Reduce exposure to chemicals or toxins at work or at home/in the garden.  Think cleaning products, toiletries, pet products like flea collars, garden weedkillers and pesticides.

 

7. Identify and tackle any underlying health issues, if you suspect any.  See experts, gets tests, look at options for addressing any problems and make an informed choice. 

 

Is Detox Safe?

There is nothing in my list that is dangerous or harmful.  I can’t say the same about others. And it does depend on the state of your health beforehand.

If you’re not sure, you have a medical condition or you are taking prescribed meds, please check with your own doctor before making major changes.

It’s not rocket science to change to healthier habits, generally.  But if it’s easier said than done, check out my fab blog on how to change habits and reach goals.

 

Do I Need Any Magic Potions?

So what about all the special drinks, supplements and the like that are advertised for detoxing?   Do I actually need any magic potions?

I’d be careful.  I wouldn’t start taking anything without guidance from someone who knows what they’re talking about.   Or checking with a doctor first.

With my VIP clients, I use certain supplements to help them remove any toxic metals found through hair mineral tests (as part of a Foresight programme). I sometimes choose  herbal tinctures for example,  Milk Thistle for liver support. I’ve also recommended  homeopathic remedies for liver and other organ support.

 

But I think we can all “cleanse” our bodies without some extreme January detox.  Just choose healthy foods and a huge dollop of extreme self-care instead.  You’ll have gone from detox to ME-ROCKS or even BE-FOX in no time. Hehe. *groans at own puns*

Love,