Self love illustration by Heather Skovlund for 360 Magazine

Why Detox Now

By: Edward Jones, founder of  Nutrition World

Are you ready to restart your health similar to how we reset our phones when they get slow and sluggish? The cumulative effects of living, eating and breathing in our toxic world are very often causing our bodys to be sluggish, decreasing our energy, brain function,  producing weight gain and reducing the quality of our life.  

I have been counseling people for more than four decades on the subject of detox for the betterment of their health through my wellness clinic and personal education. Observing my clients over the years has clearly shown me the vital importance of effective therapies regarding detoxification in order to attain results to optimize their health. I will be offering you three steps to effective and healthy detox methods in this article.   

The science of detoxification of every single living organism has been intensively studied and its biochemistry illustrates its varied mechanisms of action. The mere fact that nature placed highly efficient detox pathways within all living creatures confirms its vital importance to the continuation of life. Traditional medicine does not recognize the negative effects of toxins like hormone disruptors, mold, pesticides, fungicides, carcinogens, and the list goes on and on. Even in the best situations where we embrace organic foods daily and clean lifestyle we continue to be exposed to toxins from vaccines, mold in the workplace or home, pharmaceuticals, water, skin care products, suntan lotions, chemicals like Roundup (which is found in almost all foods), and the list goes on and is almost endless. The body has only so much capacity within its system of detox and clearly these days the body is often at or beyond capacity in many individuals.

One of the most stunning studies performed showing the potential serious concerns of toxins in our daily life was on analyzing umbilical cord blood. Not that long ago, scientists believed that the placenta shielded cord blood — and the developing baby — from most chemicals and pollutants in the environment. In the study spearheaded by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), two major laboratories found an average of 200 industrial chemicals in umbilical cord blood. The blood harbored pesticides, consumer product ingredients and wastes from gasoline and garbage. Information such as this can motivate people toward the clear need for detoxification. The first step in assisting anyone with his or her health is making sure they clearly understand and believe in the process itself. Many traditional healthcare practitioners often do not use detoxification as part of their toolbox. This makes education a top priority to achieve success.

For the majority of individuals when they hear the word “detox” they are thinking colon and going to the bathroom. We know regularity does have a place in lessening toxins, but I am more concerned with cellular detox for most of my clients. I always address the issue of regularity and the need to work towards regular bowel movements, but too many so called natural cleansers are nothing more than hidden laxatives. Ingredients such as aloe, cascara, chinese rhubarb, and of course senna are often addictive and are simply cleansing what was eaten over the past few days and not cellular detox.  Nutrition World is very aware of this issue and is devoted to honest education when speaking to customers on this issue. I encourage anyone considering detox products to be an informed consumer. 

Three steps to finding an effective and healthy detox method:

My first recommendation for reducing the toxic load within our cells is fasting. I find intermittent fasting five days a week by eating within an 8 to 10 hour window and not eating the remainder of the day and night is very effective for everyone.  This offers benefits regarding weight loss, insulin balancing, sleep, optimizing glucose levels, and improving brain function.  

Sweating is option number two. Toxins are generally located within the fatty cells and increasing body temperature releases the toxins. I prefer a dry heat sauna for 30 minutes several times a week.  Of course sweating of any kind will be of benefit regardless of how it is done.  

The third option is the consideration of taking nutraceutical and botanical supplements in the form of a detox plan. No one ingredient will accomplish this goal which is why I have three methods of supplementation with natural remedies that further accelerate the process of optimal cleansing. The level of toxicity will determine which detox bundle to consider. You can learn more about the right supplement detox plan for you through my education podcast, The Holistic Navigator. Remember to always consult with your healthcare professional before using any products if you have a health condition.

Source: Chemical analyses of 10 umbilical cord blood samples were conducted by AXYS Analytical Services (Sydney, BC) and Flett Research Ltd. (Winnipeg, MB).

Biography: Edward Jones, is a holistic health expert who has spent a lifetime dedicated to educating consumers about healthy living through his famed Nutrition World, and the preventative health practitioner venue he founded and directs, The Wellness Corner, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Since opening his doors at Nutrition World in 1979, Jones has presented at hundreds of nutrition and health events, conducted numerous media interviews, and has written and contributed to multiple publications, including the book, “101 Great Ways to Improve Your Health.” Known to many as a navigator of health, Jones is the host of “The Holistic Navigator” podcast that airs weekly to educate consumers about the latest science and trends in nutritional intervention, with the objective to help others take control of their own health. An adventurer at heart, and passionate pilot, Jones practices what he teaches through his highly successful wellness centers that are accessible virtually throughout the country. He is an avid exerciser, salsa dancer, traditional archer and devout meditator. Jones once set an “unofficial” world record in 2004 by achieving 285 pull-ups in one hour and for his 63rd birthday he recorded completing 63 continuous push-ups. Through proper exercise, good food choices and nutritional supplementation, Jones believes you can lead a fulfilled, adventurous life, no matter your age, as he has helped thousands of people on the path toward health and wellness.

Edward Jones
Photo provided by Nutrition World

Leave a Reply