When a person uses addictive substances such as drugs and alcohol for prolonged periods, toxins build up in their body and affect their health. The following five-stage process is generally followed towards safe detoxification with minimum negative side effects.
1. Stop the Source
The first step in the detox process is to stop drinking and using drugs. This will allow the body to eliminate and excrete the toxins that got accumulated in various tissues and organs.
2. Re-Hydration
Water also has the added benefit of being a natural detox. It flushes out the system, bringing chemicals, toxins, fats, and other unwanted substances as they are excreted. It is suggested that people going through the detox process should drink between 80 oz and 100 oz of water each day.
3. Good Nutrition
As the toxins get eliminated, it is important to pay attention to eating a healthy diet. The first step is cutting down on sugars, bad fats and processed and refined foods.
To get the body to jump-start, juicing which involves drinking all-natural juiced fruits and vegetables is recommended as a shortcut to getting all the vitamins and minerals the body needs.
Another recommended practice is to eat lots of organically produced food. Foods that are not grown organically are treated with chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which are harmful to the body and can prevent the absorption of nutrients. A list of foods that are excellent for detoxification:
Chia seeds, cilantro, parsley, and lemon leech on to impurities in the intestines and help get rid of them.
Green leafy veggies: kale, romaine, wheatgrass, seaweed, and others are a great source of fiber to flush out toxins and provide antioxidants to boost the immune system.
Berries: strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are another source of antioxidants, which help fight disease.
Yogurt contains probiotics, which is good for the digestive tract.
Wild-caught fish, avocados, and almonds are high in Omega 3 fats, which can keep cravings down and help with depression.
4. Exercise
Besides eliminating toxins through waste, exercise is the best way to start ridding your body of its unhealthy build-up. By accelerating heart rate and causing the body to sweat, the unhealthy toxins will be excreted through the pores in the skin.
Running, biking, hot yoga, or any other exercise will not only help in the detox process but will also produce endorphins in the brain that can elevate the mood and help through this difficult process.
5. Good Habits
Stress hormones, such as cortisol, are detrimental to health and path towards detoxification and healing. Reducing stress, staying away from coffee and cigarettes, getting good sleep are some of the habits that help in the difficult but essential journey of detoxification. Make sure to unwind and treat yourself well each day.
The decision to begin detox is a big step and not one to be taken lightly. By following these recommendations, you or your loved one can start on the path to a healthy, drug- and alcohol-free life.
