Maybe you indulged a little too much over the holidays…or maybe you just want a fresh start for the new year! Whatever the reason, periodic detoxification is a good idea. While our bodies have organs and systems to eliminate toxins and waste, the overindulgence, chemicals in our foods, water & air, and stress can all be overwhelming to our bodies. Here are 4 steps for a successful natural cleansing program.

1. Set aside time for a cleanse.  It can be as little as one day or as much as 3 weeks. This is not a fast, but a cleanse. You should not need to take time off from normal daily work or activity. However, for exercise during detox, choose lower impact exercises and stretching, such as yoga or walking. To get the most out detoxification, focus on eating unprocessed foods like fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts, and to drink plenty of pure water. For a veggie-rich salad that is gut friendly, check out The Roasted Root Detox Salad.

2. Increase fiber intake.  Psyllium husks, flaxseeds and acacia are excellent sources of natural plant fibers that support the overall health of the intestinal tract. Fibers bind to toxins and help move them out of the waste stream. As stated above, be sure to drink plenty of water, especially when increasing fiber intake. 

3. Utilize detox and support herbs. Numerous herbs play an important role in detoxification. Here are just a few:

• Milk thistle works to cleanse the liver and reduce inflammation.
• Dandelion supports liver, gallbladder and kidneys. 
• Red clover supports cleaning of blood.
• Turmeric stimulates production of bile, which helps remove toxins from the body.

4. Replenish after the cleanse. Replenish and fortify the intestinal tract with probiotics after a cleanse. Kefir, yogurt, kombucha and other fermented foods are great ways to build up probiotic supplies in the body. Probiotic supplements are also concentrated ways to replenish these beneficial bacteria.

Many people choose to do a cleanse at least two to four times per year. Convenient detox and cleanse formulas and kits are available to make the process as easy as possible.