We all know the feeling of being bogged down by daily life – too much work, not enough sleep, unhealthy eating. These everyday stressors combined with the overload of toxins and chemicals from our environment, food and even the air we breathe, can lead to a build-up of toxins in our bodies that can eventually compromise our health and well-being.
A functional medicine detox is a great way to cleanse your body of these harmful substances and reset your system. Here’s what to consider to see if a detox is right for you.
What is Functional Medicine?
Functional medicine is a holistic approach to health care that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of disease. With the goal of bringing the body back into balance so it can heal itself, practitioners customize treatment plans for each individual based on their unique needs and circumstances.
Practitioners often use detoxification as a way to help patients rid their bodies of harmful toxins. A functional medicine detox is an excellent foundation for any wellness plan and can set an individual up for success regardless of their health and wellness goals.
How Does Functional Medicine Detox Work?
The body detoxifies on a daily basis. So the goal with a FM Detox is to eliminate additional toxins as much as possible while supporting the pathways that lead to detoxification.
Detoxification can be supported through dietary changes, supplements, and/or physical activities that promote elimination of toxins. Most detoxes involve some combination of the following:
Dietary Changes: Eliminating processed foods, sugar, alcohol, and caffeine from your diet is a great way to start your detox. Adding in more whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats will help your body to better absorb the nutrients it needs.
Supplements: There are many different supplements that can be helpful in a functional medicine detox. Commonly used supplements include herbs like milk thistle and dandelion root, which support liver function; probiotics, which promote gut health; and omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation. Supplements that support the bodies natural detox pathways are often recommended and can be taken individually or in a prepackaged formula. If you choose the latter, be sure the supplements come from a reputable source so you can be confident in what you are actually taking.
Physical Activity: Physical activity helps to move toxins out of your cells and tissues so that they can be eliminated from your body. Sweating through activities like saunas, yoga, or exercise is a great way to promote detoxification. My personal favorite is the infrared sauna, which has research-backed health benefits associated with it.
A functional medicine detox is a great way to cleanse your body of harmful toxins and reset your system. This approach uses dietary changes, supplements, and physical activity to promote elimination of toxins from the body. If you’re looking for a way to feel refreshed and rejuvenated, consider giving functional medicine detox a try!