How to properly detox your body and what to watch out for
“We live in a highly polluted world. Every day, we inhale exhaust fumes from cars and industrial emissions. We consume food containing pesticides, herbicides, and other agricultural chemicals. We drink milk and eat meat from animals that regularly receive antibiotics, steroids, and other drugs. We ingest large amounts of chemicals from processed foods. We use personal hygiene products filled with chemicals. (...) Modern building materials, insulation, paints, cleaning agents, and flame retardants in clothing and furniture release toxic substances into the air we breathe daily. (...) Hospitals and shopping malls contain even greater amounts of these toxins in the air. (...) To make matters worse, we take prescription medications, drink alcohol, and smoke cigarettes.
How can we possibly survive this?” (Campbell-McBride, 2019, p. 276)
I couldn’t have said it better myself, so I had to borrow this paragraph from an incredible book about the human gut and its impact on brain development: GAPS: Gut and Psychology Syndrome. This book, written by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride, explores the gut-brain connection and ways to restore balance.
How can we survive such a toxic load?
Thanks to our detoxification system.
The frequently mentioned concept of detox divides society into two opposing views. On one side, there are those who support detox and special cleansing processes, regularly undergoing detox programs or having done so in the past, praising the benefits they have experienced.
On the other side, there are those who believe that no additional detox is necessary, as the body is naturally capable of detoxifying itself without the need for special detox programs.
The term "detox" often divides people into two camps: those who advocate for detox and cleansing programs, regularly undergo detox treatments, and praise their benefits; and those who believe that the body detoxifies itself naturally and that additional detox programs are unnecessary.
So, what’s the truth?
The human body indeed has its own natural detoxification system, including the liver, kidneys, lungs, intestines, lymphatic system, and skin. These organs and systems work together to eliminate harmful substances that accumulate internally or enter from external sources. However, sometimes these mechanisms can become overwhelmed or impaired, reducing their effectiveness.
Situations where the body may not be able to perform effective detoxification include, in the worst cases, liver or kidney failure. However, let’s look at much more common cases such as:
- Toxin overload
Excessive exposure to alcohol, drugs, environmental pollutants, heavy metals, and chemicals in food and cosmetics can overwhelm detox systems, leading to toxin buildup. - Weakened immune system
A compromised immune system—due to chronic stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, or illness—can reduce the body's ability to eliminate harmful microorganisms. - Inflammatory bowel diseases
The gut plays a crucial role in toxin elimination. An imbalance in gut microbiota can disrupt detoxification processes. - Hormonal imbalance
Hormones regulate detoxification, and imbalances can impair the body's ability to cleanse itself. - Unhealthy lifestyle and diet
A diet high in processed foods, sugar, alcohol, and a lack of physical activity can weaken natural detox mechanisms. - Dehydration
Water is essential for kidney function and toxin elimination through urine. - Chronic stress
Long-term stress negatively affects the body's detox processes. - Nutrient deficiencies
Deficiencies in zinc, magnesium, selenium, enzymes, and amino acids—especially common in those with gut issues—can hinder detoxification. - Prolonged use of medications
Painkillers, antidepressants, and even CBD can impact the body’s natural detox pathways.
When should you intervene?
If the body cannot detoxify effectively, toxins can accumulate, leading to symptoms such as: Fatigue, headaches, irritability, skin problems, digestive issues (bloating, constipation, diarrhea), worsening overall health. In such cases, seeking medical advice and addressing the root cause is essential.
A poorly executed detox can lead to nutrient deficiencies, immune suppression, and even organ damage. The key to a successful detox is a balanced, reasonable approach—avoiding extreme methods that may do more harm than good.
One of the biggest myths is that juice cleanses or water fasts are effective and safe detox methods. Many believe that cutting out solid food and consuming only juices will "cleanse" the body quickly. However, this can lead to nutrient deficiencies, a slowed metabolism, muscle loss, and inadequate protein intake.
Freshly made fruit and vegetable juices can be a beneficial supplement if prepared correctly and consumed at the right time. It’s best to make them at home using fresh ingredients, avoiding store-bought versions. An ideal juice blend balances cleansing and nutrient-rich ingredients, such as carrots, beets, celery, or spinach, combined with apple, orange, or grapefruit.
For optimal results, consume juices 20 minutes before meals or 2 hours after eating. However, juices should notreplace a balanced diet. Just because you include a healthy element in your routine doesn’t mean you can indulge in junk food afterward! For more information on therapeutic juices, check out GAPS: Gut and Psychology Syndrome by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride.
Whether you choose M.E.G Detox (Strong or Classic) or simply reduce processed foods, caffeine, sugar, and alcohol while increasing physical activity, your body may experience natural detox reactions, including:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Headaches
- Mood swings and irritability
- Increased urination and bowel movements
- Increased sweating (with a possible change in odor)
- Worsened skin conditions (acne, rashes)
- Bad breath
- Increased cravings for sugar and unhealthy foods
The more digestive and gut-related issues a person has, the more challenging the detox process may be.
At first, detox symptoms may be uncomfortable, but the key is to stay committed. If you feel overwhelmed, consult a specialist who can guide you through the process.
What changes do people usually welcome with open arms and serve as motivation to undergo detox repeatedly?
- Improved sleep
- Weight loss
- Reduced water retention
- Increased energy
- Feeling of lightness
- Clear and sharp mind
- Enhanced concentration
- Better skin condition
- Improved digestion
- Overall sense of renewal and mental well-being
For many, detox acts as a reset button—especially after stressful life periods where health, exercise, and diet were neglected. Detox can symbolize a fresh start and a step toward a healthier lifestyle.
Mental cleansing as part of detox
Detox isn’t just about physical health; it also involves mental well-being. Many people who undergo detox also focus on emotional cleansing—working to eliminate negative thought patterns, unresolved emotions, and stress. According to psychosomatics, unresolved emotions are stored in the gut. As a result, emotional wounds, anger, or sadness may resurface during a detox. To cope with these emotional swings, SOS Crisis drops can be a helpful aid. They also help curb sugar cravings and the urge to reach for alcohol.
How to maximize your detox results, detoxification process (and avoid making it harder)?
- Adequate hydration (water is essential! or you can drink herbal teas)
- Balanced nutrition
Limit dining out, avoid processed foods, fried meals, and highly industrially processed products (chips, cookies, lollipops, sugary drinks, sweet yogurts, and basically anything with an ingredient list longer than five items).
Eliminate alcohol and sugar. Ideally, don’t go back to these habits even after the Detox if you want long-lasting results. (Detox doesn’t work like flushing a toilet—cleansing your body and then putting the same harmful substances back in while expecting a change.)
During detoxification, it’s essential to eat nutrient-rich foods that provide your body with enough energy and support the elimination of toxins.
Instead of a buttered white roll, cook yourself three eggs with vegetables. Instead of pasta for lunch, opt for a piece of meat cooked in lard or ghee. Instead of a donut with coffee, have fresh fruit with plain yogurt and herbal tea.
We do not recommend using Detox while only consuming water.
- Quality sleep
Sleep is an essential part of the detoxification process, as cell regeneration and brain cleansing from toxins occur during the night. Focus on getting quality and sufficient sleep (7–9 hours per day) by establishing a consistent sleep routine and calming your mind before bedtime.
- Stress management (meditation, relaxation techniques)
Stress has a negative impact on both the body and mind and can slow down detoxification processes. Make sure to rest, as your body is working at full capacity. Only if you feel you have enough energy, you can exercise. Movement can help support the elimination of toxins from the body.
- Lymphatic massage
Lymphatic massage is another effective way to support the body's detoxification process. The lymphatic system is responsible for eliminating waste, toxins, and excess fluids from the body. Unlike the circulatory system, it lacks a pump like the heart, so its proper function depends on body movement and manual stimulation. Opt for gentle lymphatic massage and avoid harsh or painful methods.
- Sauna
Supporting toxin elimination through sweating.Sauna increases body temperature and promotes intense sweating, one of the primary ways the body removes toxins. Heavy metals, chemicals, and other toxic substances can be excreted through sweat.
- Eliminating environmental toxins
For a successful detox, try to reduce your exposure to:
- Alcohol
- Processed foods and sugar
- Toxic cosmetics (replace shampoos, shower gels, face creams, and deodorants with natural, chemical-free alternatives)
- Toxic cleaning, dishwashing, and laundry products
- Gut microbiome support
Gut health plays a crucial role in detoxification since toxins are primarily eliminated through bowel movements. Support your gut microbiome with:
- Probiotics – Consume fermented foods such as kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut, or kimchi, and supplement with our 3-in-1 Vitamin C with probiotics and prebiotics.
- Fiber – Include fiber-rich foods in your diet, such as whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, to promote healthy digestion.
- Listen to your body
Detoxification should not be extreme. It’s essential to listen to your body and adjust the detox process to your individual needs. If you feel overwhelmed or if detox symptoms persist for too long, it may be best to slow down or change your approach.
These steps will help support your body during detox and ensure the process is both effective and gentle on your system.
As with many things, nothing is black or white. A detox program doesn’t have to be harmful if done correctly and mindfully.
CAMPBELL-MCBRIDE, Natasha. GAPS Terapeutický protokol. Jihlava: Altenberg, 2019. ISBN 978-80-907559-1-8.