​Seniors Matter(s): Detox plan!

Thanks are given to my Naturopath, Lesley, for this.

The body has six organs of elimination – routes by which toxins are released from the body:
 

• Skin - sweating promotes removal of soluble toxins through the pores
  Breath - increased depth of breathing helps eliminate water-soluble toxins
• Intestines - all fat-soluble toxins leave the liver and are excreted via fecal matter
• Kidney - all water-soluble toxins leave the liver and are excreted via urine
• Lymphatics - removes wastes from tissues and responsible for immunity to infection
• Liver - primary organ of detoxification, where toxins are packaged to be excreted

DAILY LIFESTYLE HABITS

The goal is to stimulate all organs of elimination in order to cleanse overloaded body systems.

Lemon water: Squeeze half a lemon in one cup of warm water. Drink upon waking - stimulates liver and bowel function and shifts the internal body’s environment from acidic to alkaline

Hydration: Drink a minimum of two litres (eight cups) of water each day. Try drinking a cup of water before each meal. When detoxifying, harmful substances that have accumulated in the body over time are released from the tissues and start to circulate around the body. In order to assist in flushing these toxins out, adequate water is essential.

Dry skin brushing: Five minutes before showering, briskly rub skin in small circular motions with a loofa or dry facecloth, moving from the arms and legs inward toward the heart. Skin may appear flushed, but caution not to rub too harshly to cause skin irritation. Improves lymphatic circulation and drainage, and boosts immunity. Reduces appearance of cellulite by increasing blood flow to superficial tissue.

Aerobic exercise four times per week: Releases toxins stored in fat tissue, promotes weight loss and lean muscle tone, improves mood, energy, and sleep quality, and reduces stress. Sweating is key!

Deep breathing exercises: Increase blood flow to abdominal organs to improve digestion. Relaxes the body and mind, and relieves tension. Inhale for five seconds, hold five seconds, then exhale five seconds. Repeat five times. Eventually, the goal is to build up to longer and longer breaths in order to slow and deepen breathing, eliminating shallow breathing that is limited to the chest. Try before bed to relax and promote deep sleep.

Whole Foods: Choosing whole, organic foods can be the only medicine needed to treat fatigue, aches and pains, and any chronic inflammatory conditions. Stick to the perimeter of the grocery store, look for foods that are not processed, boxed, and contain no preservatives. Choose brightly-loured vegetables and eat as many as you would like! Choose organic or free-ranged meat whenever possible, and balance out your sweet tooth with nutrient-dense fruits, such as berries and citrus.