Metabolic Detoxification
In recent history, mankind has managed to drastically change the chemistry of the environment in which we live. For example, in 1989 alone, more than 1,000,000,000 pounds of chemicals were released into the ground, threatening a portion of the soil we grow our food in and the natural underground water tables that supply some of our drinking water.
Over 188,000,000 pounds of chemicals were also discharged into surface waters such as lakes and rivers. More than 2,400,000,000 pounds of chemical emissions were pumped into the air we breathe. A grand total of 5,705,670, 380 pounds of chemical pollutants were released into the environment we eat, breathe and live in, all in just one year.
Let’s begin with some of the basic requirements to avoid toxicity. Do all you can to purify your work and home environments? IF you know the source of any toxic materials at work, such as stored or leaking chemicals, dyes, paints, solvents, glues, acids, or household offenders such as insecticides or cleaning agents, remove them if possible. If the offending materials cannot be removed, an effective air purification system may be needed. At least, wear protective clothing and/or breathing apparatus when using any toxic materials. Regular replacement of furnace and air conditioning filters may also be helpful.
It is also very important to eat a good diet with plenty of fresh, wholesome foods. Some foods promote lymph flow and are good for lymphatic drainage. Avoid eating excess fat, refined sugar, and food high in additives and preservatives. Eat moderate levels of proteins (approximately 15% to 20% of your calories) and fat (approximately 20% of your calories), while increasing levels of complex carbohydrates (approximately 60% of your calories). Substitute organically raised animals and organically grown fruits and vegetables whenever possible. Drink plenty of purified water (ideally, eight 8-ounce glasses a day). A home water purification system is highly desirable to provide pure water for drinking and cooking.
One thing is certain in our effort to purify our work and home environments; it is impossible to avoid toxicity completely! With that realization, the importance of supporting your body’s efforts to eliminate accumulated toxins cannot be overstated. The illustration on the reverse side of this sheet outlines the body’s natural detoxification mechanism and helps us understand the best way to strengthen and support it. Please take a minute now and consider it closely.
A more current approach to detoxification is to nourish the body thoroughly, fueling its natural detoxification mechanism with the nutrients needed to achieve optimal detoxification activity. By providing high-quality protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential fats, the body gets what it needs to prevent muscle and organ breakdown and depleted energy resources. But that is just the beginning. Nutrients are needed to support the function of the organs directly involved in detoxification: the liver, the intestinal tract, and the kidneys. Intelligent application of nutrition may help in the following ways:
The nutrients zinc and pantothenic acid, the amino acid L-glutamine, carbohydrates known as fructooligosaccharides, and microorganisms known as acidophilus and Bifidus, are a few of the substances that provide support for the health and integrity of intestinal function. In a proper state of health, the intestines promote the elimination of toxins through (1) regular bowel movements, (2) eliminating the build-up of unhealthful microorganisms and internal toxins, and (3) providing a strong and intact barrier to prevent the leaking of toxic materials from the intestines into circulation.
The vitamins A, B3, B6, C, E, beta-carotene, the amino acids L-cysteine and G-glutamine, and components known as glutathione and phospholipids are some of the substances that support liver function. In a proper state of function, the liver filters out and transforms toxic substances that have entered the blood into harmless substances that can be excreted in the urine. Interestingly, it appears that the ratio of dietary protein to carbohydrates may be a very important factor in determining the ability of the liver to detoxify certain substances.
Synergy Health Associates in New York offers comprehensive, personalized care with their Metabolic Detoxification services. By addressing individual needs and utilizing holistic methods, they provide effective solutions for eliminating toxins and enhancing overall health.