Dr. Susan Slipacoff B.Kin, ND
This article will be included in the May 2008 issue of Life Balance

You spring clean your house once a year; change the oil in your car every few months; take out the garbage every week; and most likely, you shower everyday. People are very accustomed to following a routine of regularly cleaning out the clutter in their life – so for the most part, things on the outside look pretty good!

Alternatively, have you ever considered how things look or function on the inside? Do you have a regular routine of cleaning out your body and mind?

Everyday we are exposed to chemicals and toxins. These damaging substances come from exposure to pesticides, air pollutants, toxic chemicals or metals, side effects of pharmaceutical treatments, radiation exposure, and lifestyle factors such as lack of fresh air, sunlight or exercise, improper breathing and poor nutrition. Our bodies store these toxins in our cells. Without proper elimination, these substances can accumulate and disrupt proper organ function, deplete energy levels, negatively affect our moods and have damaging effects on our overall health.

The types of conditions that can result from toxic overload include:

• Fatigue
• Digestive upset
• Generalized aches and pains
• Mood-related disorders: depression and anxiety
• Skin conditions: acne, psoriasis, eczema
• Chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer

In order to prevent these conditions from occurring, or treat them if they already have, an internal spring cleaning is in order.

The words “detox” or “cleanse” are now found everywhere and as a result, have become somewhat diluted in their meaning. Many think about it, especially around this time of year but may be put off by the unknown territory which it presents, which can sometimes lead to uncomfortable symptoms. However, detoxification doesn’t have to be an arduous undertaking; to some degree the body is doing it all the time. The goal is to support the body’s innate detoxification pathways. A successful program encourages elimination, movement and building on both a physiological and mental level.

Eliminating the bowels, thereby ridding the colon of processed food, sugar and meat from the diet is the first step of an effective detoxification program. This can be achieved by numerous means; however one should be careful to avoid harsh laxatives as they are dependency forming in nature. To build, take the appropriately prescribed vitamin and mineral supplements, botanicals to strengthen the immune system and liver, and only consume nutrient rich food. Movement helps to eliminate stagnation and can include activities such as walking, yoga, tai chi, pilates or other forms low-intensity aerobic activity.

In order to achieve a safe, yet effective cleanse, it is always a good idea to consult with a knowledgeable healthcare practitioner who can guide you through the proper supplements and herbal remedies. A reference site to find a registered Naturopathic Doctor in your area is www.oand.org. Happy cleansing!