The post Christmas season is one of the most common times of the year for people to want to detox.

It may be to lose a few pounds; to get back on their old health program; or just because they feel bloated and more stuffed than the turkey. Detoxification or cleanses are one of the basic foundations of natural healing. A good detox program cleanses the intestinal tract, the urinary tract, the liver, gallbladder, the blood and lymphatic system. It should include a wholesome diet focused on alkaline forming foods, lots of pure water and moderate exercise.

Since many health problems result when our bodies are overly acidic, a good detoxification program addresses the acid-alkaline balance of the blood. This means a number of dietary restrictions. A detox program does not include any flour products: cakes, cookies, breads, pasta etc.; or any dairy products: milk, cheese, yogurt, butter is OK). Tropical fruits, dried fruits sweets, processed food or preservatives are not allowed. By following a detoxification program 2 to 4 times a year you can reduce the burden of toxins in the body and reduce your vulnerability to environmental pollutants. Detoxification diets are preferable to fasts because they don’t overload these fragile processes. Eliminating too many toxins too quickly can overburden the system. A good detox diet will provide nourishment for the whole body to function well and also provide the key nutrients to bind toxins, and the bulk fiber that will help move them through the system.

Check out www.vitaminsfirst.ca/healthy-recipes for a new cleanse friendly recipe each week.

Happy cleansing!

by Terry Willard ClH, PhD