Supplemental support for your body’s natural detox process
The term “detoxification” refers to biological processes responsible for safely removing harmful substances from the body. This involves the coordination of several organs and systems of the body, including the circulatory system, liver, intestines, kidneys, and more.
Although the process can seem complicated, there are several simple shifts you can make to give your body a helping hand. These include staying hydrated, adopting healthy diet and lifestyle patterns, and increasing your consumption of certain nutrients, including the following.
Probiotics.
Gut flora contribute to the breakdown and elimination of metabolites in the digestive system. In animal studies, probiotic supplementation increased bowel excretion of the hormone disruptor bisphenol-A (BPA). In lab studies, probiotic supplementation also increased cholesterol excretion through the gut.
Magnesium.
Used as a gentle laxative and muscle relaxant, magnesium helps promote regular bowel function and elimination. Be sure to check with your health care practitioner before taking a magnesium-based laxative.
Glutathione.
Taken as a supplement, glutathione has demonstrated an ability to reduce liver enzyme levels in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which is a measure of its ability to halt progression of this disease.
Milk thistle. (Silybum marianum).
A well-researched liver-protecting plant, milk thistle contains flavonoid antioxidants, known collectively as silymarin, that have been shown to help reduce inflammation and regenerate liver cells exposed to toxic injury. Silybum may also have chelating (or binding) effects for certain metals and has been shown to reduce iron overload.
Fiber.
Add extra fiber to your diet with ground flaxseed or oat fiber; these act as a “mop” to soak up and bind toxins in the gut for elimination.
N-acetylcysteine.
The precursor for glutathione, NAC is an essential antioxidant involved in the liver’s detoxification process.
Various other nutrients may be considered based on individual needs, including whey protein powder, shown to increase glutathione levels, and vitamin B12, folic acid, and choline.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.