Ever since Rachael Carson’s landmark book Silent Spring in 1962, we have become increasingly aware of toxins in our life. According to the United Nations Environment Program:
- Each and every second about 700 pounds of toxic chemicals are released into our air, land, and water by industrial facilities around the world.
- This amounts to approximately 10 million tons (over 20 billion pounds) of toxic chemicals released into our environment by industries each year.
- Of these, more than 2 million tons (over 4.5 billion pounds) per year are recognized carcinogens. This amounts to about 140 pounds each second.
Toxins are generally defined as substances that can cause many problems from inflammation to severe illness, acute poisoning, birth defects, disease, or death when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed by living organisms.
Because of the prevalence of potentially-dangerous toxins in our food, water, air and in the products we use, being aware of Detoxification or “Cleansing”, and knowing how to do it effectively and safely is an important part of our overall approach to good health.
Cleansing is basically a liquid fast, ideally with natural organic juices that have some calories and sufficient nutrients to provide the body energy. A cleanse is a good and natural way to give your body and digestive tract both a rest from toxins and other environmental stressors and a chance to release some of these irritants. A typically cleanse involves fresh vegetable juices, especially greens. There is also a spicy lemonade cleanse called the “Master Cleanser” made from fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, cayenne pepper and water. Cleanses can also help with weight loss and congestion, and so many other health issues. Even allergies can be improved with a juice cleanse. Other potential benefits include improving digestive disorders, aches and pains, skin rashes, and reduction of cholesterol and blood pressure.
Always consult your personal practitioner if you are considering a cleanse. You can learn more about my work with detoxification and cleansing in my books, at my website, and my video on a safe detox.
Haas Health Online 