Detoxification is a process by which we cleanse the body of toxins and harmful chemicals. It involves dietary and lifestyle changes that reduce the intake of toxins and improve their elimination. These toxins come mainly from diet, drug use, and environmental exposure, and are difficult to remove. Natural detoxification is helpful in this process.

The natural detoxification system of our body, given by Mother Nature, is usually sufficient for good health. This system protects us from everyday exposure to toxins.

The human detoxification system consists of the respiratory (lungs, bronchial tubes, sinus and nose), gastrointestinal (liver, gall bladder, colon), urinary (kidney, bladder, urethra), skin and dermal (sweat, sebaceous glands and tears) and lymphatic (lymph nodes and channels) systems.

The human body is programmed to tackle low-level toxic attacks. Our bodies can detoxify potential carcinogens, or repair genetic damages. The protective mechanisms are repair, cellular shedding, detoxification and dietary antioxidants. The human body is quite capable of detoxification if it is fed with adequate water and fiber.

Water is the main detoxifying agent in our body. It helps us to clean our skin and kidneys, and improves sweating through exercise. Many of us are chronically dehydrated, and doctors recommend a minimum of 8 glasses of water daily.

The next step in natural detoxification is a raw-food diet. This means consumption of more fruits and vegetables and less of proteins and fat rich red meat, milk products, refined food and fried food. Adding fiber to your diet will help to detoxify your system regularly.

Another important component of natural detoxification is regular exercise. Exercise relieves toxins from the body by sweating and also helps in good bowel habits. Exercise improves our general metabolism and helps with overall detoxification. Aerobic exercise helps to maintain a well-toned body.

Regular bathing helps the body to get rid of toxins that accumulate on the skin, and also opens the pores. Saunas and oil massages help the body to cleanse completely.

Some natural therapists also recommend therapy such as colon irrigation, which means cleansing the gastro-intestinal system of waste and toxic debris using water. But some are of the view that fasting and colon cleansing are not required for detoxification. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal choice.