Your body is continually undergoing natural detoxification methods as part of general maintenance – and especially when a season change is upon us. But many times, the detox organs (ie. skin, lungs, liver, kidneys and intestines), need extra nutritional and herbal support to ensure that they are working effectively and efficiently.

An overloaded and unsupported system can respond in the following ways: digestive complaints, fatigue, hives, skin conditions, low-grade infections, achy joints, brain fog, and frequent headaches.

Check out these detox tips to optimize your ‘internal cleanse’!

First – the liver

The liver is one of the main organs of elimination that cleanses the blood. Blood detoxification, being one of the most important functions of the liver, needs a good supply of nutrients in order to do its job effectively. Think of the best working vacuum cleaner — if its filter is dirty, it surely won’t do a good job. The liver works quite the same! Without a supply of the right nutrients, it will dysfunction.

There are 2 phases to this very important job (liver detox) and both require certain nutrients to complement each complex phase.

The first phase of liver detoxification (phase 1) breaks down toxins into less toxic versions of their original chemical structure. From there, a second step of detoxification occurs (phase 2). This is where the liver will chemically alter the toxic by-product making it water soluble and easier to excrete via the intestines.

This all happens if liver function is optimal, which means the right kinds of nutrients need to be available to keep our hardest working organ fueled.

Key factors and what to look for in a detox formula

CanPrev’s Detox Pro is a 15 day cleanse that is packed with a healthful blend of antioxidants, herbs and other nutrients that provide the liver with specific nutrients to support phases 1 and 2 of detoxification and to ultimately help rid toxins out of the body.

Powerful antioxidants such as N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), which is a precursor to an endogenous antioxidant called glutathione as well as vitamins A, C and E, all help to neutralize the free radicals (damaging substances) from phase 1 waiting to enter phase 2.

The vitamin B family such as B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, folate and B12, provide energy and act as co-factors in the metabolic reactions that happen in phase 2 detoxification. Choline helps to metabolize fat, copper and zinc help make an antioxidant called superoxide dismutase work (an enzyme that helps break down potentially harmful oxygen molecules) and also supports a healthy metabolism.

Trace minerals such as molybdenum, manganese and selenium enable other vitamins or enzymes in the detoxification process to function.

Herbs for detox

Artichoke extract, also found in Detox Pro, has strong antioxidant properties, protects the liver and prevents depletion of glutathione.

Turmeric, an ancient spice that has hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory properties contains beneficial polyphenols and offers powerful antioxidant support. Tumeric works in both fat and water soluble tissues to protect the liver.

Dandelion extract can help stimulate digestive glands and the liver. Green tea extract contains compounds called polyphenols that help to support phases 1 and 2. Milk thistle extract’s active ingredient is silymarin, which has the amazing capacity to regenerate liver tissue. Rosemary extract is an antioxidant and inhibits some cancer-causing effects from carcinogens. Lastly, slippery elm forms a gel-like substance when mixed with water to protect the mucous membranes.

Additional factors to support a healthy detox

Fibre and probiotics are important additions to any detox.

CanPrev’s Pro-Biotik 15B has five strains that ensure proper colonization of bacteria occurs in the correct places. Three different lactobacillus strains colonize the small intestine and vaginal tissue and two strains of bifidobacterium bacteria colonize the large intestine to help prevent and control constipation and diarrhea.

CanPrev’s Fibre Feel contains 4g of organic, FODMAP-friendly natural acacia plant soluble fibre in every scoop. Acacia fibre is a powerful prebiotic that nourishes our gut’s healthy bacteria, which often get depleted by factors like antibiotics, processed foods and chronic stress. Unlike other sources of fibre, acacia fibre ferments at a slower rate, so it doesn’t lead to symptoms like gas and bloating. It also aids in the maintenance of a healthy gut barrier, which is vital for proper immune function and overall health. A permeable gut barrier, or leaky gut syndrome, causes undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, leading to harmful inflammation. Acacia fibre encourages the growth of specific beneficial bacteria that sustain tight junctions between cells, preventing a leaky gut.

Fibre Feel is designed to help your gut feel great, giving you all the digestive benefits of healthy bacteria without any additives that can irritate IBS symptoms. It has been clinically studied not to cause gas, bloating or cramps, even at doses up to 30g per day. Be sure to drink plenty of water if you choose to use this product and as always consult with a qualified health professional before adding a natural health product to your regime.

Supporting your body’s natural detoxing pathways can help take your health to the next level. Start by prioritizing important nutrients, vitamins and herbs like those mentioned above or try one of our detox-supporting formulas.