Every day, we are exposed countless toxins. Some toxins develop naturally in our bodies as a result of metabolism, while other toxins enter our bodies through our food, products, lifestyle choices and our environment.

Our bodies are designed to release toxins through a remarkable series of natural functions. However, in this modern era we have an increasingly heavy stream of toxic substances entering our bodies. This forces our bodies to work overtime to try to push toxins out.

The toxins our bodies cannot release are stored in our fat cells, tissues, blood, and organs (such as the colon, liver and kidneys.)

Toxins clog the channels that carry waste from cells and tissues and take up room in our cells that is reserved for nutrients. When stored-up toxins are released, the body is again able to process waste efficiently (elimination), leaving room for nutrients to be absorbed (absorption).

Many of us are carrying around a lifetime of toxic elements which may interfere with our normal organ functions and increase the risk of developing disease.

Many report feeling energized, healthier, and more vibrant and optimistic after cleansing. Mental clarity, clear skin, weight loss, less hunger, better immunity to colds, pain relief, easier elimination – these are just a small handful of the amazing results many people experience after cleansing their body.

Most of us would probably benefit from a cleanse. Whether or not we acknowledge it, toxins (beyond our standard metabolic byproducts) enter our bodies every moment of our lives, and our bodies are working harder than ever to flush them out.

Who Needs to Cleanse?

If any of the following behaviors or experiences are part of your life, you will likely benefit from a cleanse:

• Have diarrhea or constipation
• Drink alcohol
• Drink coffee
• Eat sugar and/or artificial sweeteners
• Ingest foods not labeled Organic (i.e., foods with chemical additives, pesticide residue, genetically modified components, etc.)
• Eat a highly acidic diet
• Eat processed, canned or packaged food
• Use hydrogenated fats
• Eat junk foods (fried foods, pizza, hamburgers, fast foods, etc.)
• Consume soft drinks or energy (i.e., “sugar”) drinks
• Feel fatigued; have a heavy feeling
• Have acne or other skin breakouts
• Experience swelling
• Depression, low energy
• Suffer from aches or joint pain
• Have frequent migraines or headaches
• Weight gain, trouble losing weight
• Lack of focus, clarity
• Feel dull and sleepy after eating
• Have unusually unpleasant body odor (underarm, bad breath, bowel movements, etc.)
• Have PMS, cramps, pre- or post-menopausal symptoms
• Suffer from IBS or other digestive disturbances
• Experience immunity challenges such as colds, flu, food allergies, inflammation
• Have high cholesterol, diabetes, depression, insomnia, weakness, skin problems, heart and circulatory problems
• Drink unfiltered water (which may contain pesticides, chemicals or lead)
• Use or are exposed to household products with dangerous chemicals
• Use beauty and health care products with dangerous ingredients
• Have heavy metal poisoning
• Smoke
• Take prescription or illegal drugs, or regularly use over-the-counter drugs

Even if you are in good health, a cleanse is probably a good preventative health measure. Most people already in good health see a noticeable improvement in their overall levels of physical fitness and mental clarity after a cleanse.

Knowledge is power – the power of informed choice. Knowing where toxins originate, and how to avoid toxins, will help you before, during, and after your cleanse to lead a cleaner life that supports your body and spirit; a life in which you have the energy, awareness and enthusiasm to create the joyful life you deserve.