Spring Detox
Are you ready for a Spring detox? Spring is such a great time for getting rid of the old and bringing in the new. A good time for adopting healthy habits before the chaos of summer ensues and who doesn’t love a good spring clean – but make it your health! And no, I’m not talking about a juice cleanse or fad diet. Let’s dive in to learn more about what detoxification is, why we should care about it, and how we should approach it. Spring detox, right this way…
What are toxins?
In conventional medicine, the focus is primarily on acute toxin exposures such as a Tylenol (or acetaminophen) overdose, lead toxicity, or toxin spills such as the recent train derailments across the country. In Functional medicine, we consider the “Total Toxic Load” which is our cumulative toxic exposure minus our ability to transform and eliminate toxins.
Toxins are ubiquitous. They are everywhere. Not to sound all doom in gloom but they are found in the air, in our water, and in our homes. Yes, we are worried about big things like lead exposure but all of our daily exposures can add up over time such as exposure to:
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Plasticizers like BPA
- Industrial pollutants
- Petrochemical fuels and solvents
- Pharmaceuticals
- Pigments, paints, dyes and perfumes
- PFAS or Forever chemicals
- Radiation
- Heavy metals
In the Functional Medicine lens, detox is much more involved. We need to make sure that all areas of detoxification are being addressed otherwise it can make a person’s health much worse. Not to get into too many nerdy details but it is important to note that detox has 3 distinct phases and we need ALL of these to be active in order to properly eliminate toxins.
To learn more about the three phases of detoxification, click HERE.
Unveiling the Impact of Endocrine Disruptors
In the delicate balance of our bodies, hormones play a crucial role in maintaining our well-being. Let’s dig deep into a topic that affects us all, particularly women – the impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals on hormone health. First we must understand the intricacies of how endocrine disruptors hijack hormone harmony.
Our bodies are finely tuned systems, and endocrine disruptors can throw this system out of tune. These environmental chemicals, found in our everyday products, have been linked to disruptions in hormone function. From thyroid disorders to reproductive issues to obesity, the effects can impact women of all ages.
Conditions at Stake: Hormone-Related Health Concerns
Thyroid Imbalances: Endocrine disruptors can mess with thyroid function, leading to problems like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Reproductive Challenges: Issues like fertility problems and irregular menstrual cycles are linked to exposure to these chemicals.
Breast Health: Studies suggest a potential link between endocrine disruptors and breast health.
Avoiding Endocrine Disruptors and Creating the Ultimate Spring Detox Plan
Choose Products Wisely
- Clean Beauty Choices: Pick products without harmful chemicals. Look for labels like “paraben-free” and “fragrance-free.” Primally Pure is one of my favorite skin care brands and I love Ilia for clean beauty!
- Mindful Nutrition: Choose organic foods when you can. Follow the EWG Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen!
- Safe Household Products: Choose household cleaning products without harsh chemicals. Try natural alternatives like vinegar and baking soda or my personal favorite Branch Basics!!
- Water Wisdom: Be aware of your water sources. Consider a water filter to reduce exposure to contaminants. I love our AquaTru filter!
Work on Daily Detox Habits
- Ensure adequate hydration and oxygenation
- Optimize bowel health and excretion (at least one bowel movement per day to eliminate toxins)
- Remove toxins by sweating (exercise, sauna)
- Consume antioxidant rich diet to build up antioxidant reserves (more on this coming on next weeks blog!)
- Choose safe cooking techniques (try to limit frequent consumption of charred or charbroiled foods)
- Incorporate essential fatty acids like fish oil/Omega 3s into the diet
- Support Phase I and Phase II detoxification (as noted above)
- Consider Detox supplementation (only when working with experienced Functional Medicine Practitioner, like Alison here at Wild Rice Wellness:))
As always, if you notice hormone imbalance symptoms or want to proactively address your hormonal health, our team is here for you. We specialize in guiding women through their unique health journeys. Book a consultation to openly discuss your concerns, gain insights into your hormonal health, and embark on a journey towards balance. Let’s Spring Detox together – Book a Free 15 minute consultation below!