detox Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Reduce Stress & Promote Detoxification with One Easy Exercise

The AHA! Team — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 21:54:10 +0000

Dena Schmidt via NaturalHealth365 – Breathing is something many of us take for granted. However, most people tend to breathe in a shallow way, contributing to stress and limiting oxygen intake. On the other hand, deep breathing activates the body’s relaxation response, supports circulation, and promotes overall well-being. Why is deep breathing so important? Proper breathing helps oxygenate the body and supports the movement of the lymphatic system, which plays a key role in immune function. While the body primarily eliminates toxins through the liver, kidneys, and digestive system, deep breathing can aid in overall detoxification by improving oxygen exchange and circulation. Reduce stress by activating your body’s detoxification system The lymphatic system neutralizes and transports toxins from the cells and dumps them into the circulatory system. The toxins are then cycled through the liver and kidneys and eventually excreted. However, while the circulatory system is pumped by the heart, the lymph system does not have such a pump. Breathing and body movement are required for it to work effectively. Without sufficient bodily activity and deep breathing, effective detoxification isn’t possible. The lymphatic system becomes sluggish, resulting in fatigue, inflammation, weight gain, and high blood pressure. Fortunately, deep breathing exercises are one simple exercise that can make all the difference to the health of the lymphatic system. Best deep breathing exercises to promote detoxification Eastern cultures and yogic traditions have long been aware of how important deep, mindful breathing is to health and well-being. The breath is central to practices like yoga and tai chi. Deep breathing brings a wealth of benefits to health and well-being. Here are some of the top reasons to remember to breathe deeply: Stimulates organs and lymph flow: The expanding and contracting effect of the diaphragm during deep breathing massages the internal organs and the lymphatic system. Cellular detoxification and oxygenation: Deep breathing naturally stimulates the body to rid itself of toxins, allowing more nourishing oxygen to reach the cells. Relaxation: Deep breathing exercises also trigger the parasympathetic nervous system, called the “relaxation response.” This promotes a calm sense of well-being. Breathing is a natural way to reduce stress and its effects on the body and mind. Fitness and weight loss: Breathing is essential to cardiovascular capacity and maximizing the effects of each workout. By reducing stress, deep breathing also encourages increased fat burning, so the body doesn’t burn glycogen instead of fat. Deep breathing exercises can be performed anywhere, anytime. Strive to cultivate the habit of breathing deeply as much as possible throughout the day, not just during your fitness routine or yoga practice (although it’s extremely beneficial during these times as well). For optimal benefits during deep breathing exercises, exaggerate your breath, lungs’ expansion, and diaphragm movement. Expand your belly and abdominal muscles during each inhale, and empty your lungs completely when you exhale. Even just a few minutes a day of this type of breathing can work wonders for the body, mind, and spirit. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Cilantro Benefits Include Cleansing Heavy Metals from the Body

The AHA! Team — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 05:23:17 +0000

Joy Jensen via NaturalHealth365 – Cilantro refers to the leaves of the Coriandrum sativum plant – an annual herb that offers several health benefits. It’s a popular addition to many dishes because of its delicious flavor. However, this herb is not just tasty; it’s also packed with phytonutrients, antioxidants, and essential vitamins like vitamin C, K, and A. Known for aiding in blood sugar control and fighting the production of free radicals within the body, many studies show that it can help reduce the toxic burden of heavy metals. Many everyday things contain toxic metals, including the air, water, and even our food. While your body needs trace amounts of some metals (like copper), the big concern is often getting too many metals with no biological value, like mercury or lead. Research has also highlighted cilantro’s broader health benefits, particularly its potential role in managing metabolic health. A 2023 review published in Molecules found that Coriandrum sativum polyphenols exhibit protective effects against obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes, further emphasizing its value as a functional food. Today, we’ll focus on cilantro and how to support your body’s natural detoxification process. See how cilantro targets toxins inside the human body Our bodies are regularly exposed to toxic metals like lead, arsenic, aluminum, and cadmium. Technically speaking, to be clear, aluminum is not a “heavy” metal – but, still quite harmful to human health. Unfortunately, those toxins can build up within the bones and muscle tissue. When these toxic metals reach dangerous levels, they cause chronic inflammation, poor nutrient absorption, and a variety of poor health outcomes, such as chronic fatigue and brain fog. Simply put, most holistic healthcare providers will tell you that the end result of too many metals in the body is oxidative stress – which can lead to impaired organ function, hormonal imbalances, cardiovascular damage, and an increased risk of cancer. Many studies have shown that cilantro works as a natural chelating agent, helping the body eliminate toxins. Other foods that help detoxify the body include garlic, wild blueberries, lemon water, spirulina, chlorella, barley grass juice powder, and Atlantic dulse. In addition, studies show that people suffering from mercury exposure began to feel more clear minded after they consumed a significant amount of cilantro over time. Other studies have shown that cilantro helps protect the body against oxidative stress caused by lead poisoning. Please note: When dealing with any kind of toxicity issues, it’s best to work with a qualified, holistic healthcare professional. You don’t want to cause more harm than good – when starting any detoxification program. Additional protective health benefits Beyond cleansing toxic metals from the body, cilantro offers many other significant health effects. For example, this herb helps prevent damage to the heart, aids in better sleep quality, and reduces the overall risk of oxidative stress, which supports healthy cell function. It also promotes a feeling of calmness, encourages normal blood sugar, supports brain health, and, thanks to the vitamin K it contains, supports bone health. Cilantro tea is often used to support good digestive health. Plus, the nutrients – like vitamin A – boost eye health, and cilantro oil even shows promise in fighting oral forms of candida. You can enjoy cilantro’s health benefits by consuming it fresh or taking concentrated extracts. While cilantro leaves are a delicious addition to many dishes, the fresh form of this herb goes bad quickly. So, to best harness the health benefits, consume them within a couple days of purchase. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Medicalnewstoday.com Lifeextension.com WebMD.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Armpit Detox: How and Why to Do One

The AHA! Team — Fri, 30 May 2025 05:10:07 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – As we learn more about the importance of ditching conventional antiperspirants and adopting natural deodorants instead, people are eager to find products that can both help keep body odor away and not pose a threat to their health. Enter the armpit detox. Natural deodorants — made with products like baking soda and essential oils — are gaining more traction. However, a relatively common complaint is that they don’t work as well as commercial products to keep sweat and smells at bay. This is where an armpit detox can come into play. It can potentially help naturally reduce body odor, making using gentler body care products a more attractive option. What Is an Armpit Detox? An armpit detox involves applying cleansing products, such as charcoals, bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar, to your armpits in order to draw out bacteria and residue that can contribute to odor. People most often do this when switching to natural deodorants (which don’t block sweat but reduce bacteria growth) in order to help these products work better. When ditching antiperspirants, some people also temporarily experience excessive sweating as their sweat glands adjust, so cleansing the area can be a way to keep B.O. in check while this happens. How to Do It How do you detox your armpits naturally? Most often it’s performed by applying a mask to your armpits, letting it dry, and then removing it with soap and water. This gives the ingredients time to “soak up” unwanted bacteria and other ingredients from your armpits, potentially leaving behind smoother, less odor-producing skin. What type of armpit detox ingredients? They can include baking soda, which has the ability to absorb sweat and odors and help exfoliate the skin. Bentonite clay is another one. It can absorb bacteria and chemicals from the skin, plus contains minerals like calcium, iron and magnesium that can be absorbed through your pores. Activated charcoal soaks up unwanted particles from the skin and has natural detoxifying properties. Lastly, apple cider vinegar can help contribute to a healthy skin microbiome (aka a healthy ratio of different bacteria that live on the skin), plus is useful for normalizing the skin’s pH. Generally, you take some of these ingredients, along with some water, and blend them in a small bowl to make a paste. For example, one tablespoon bentonite clay, activated charcoal or baking soda, as each help detox the armpit — or one teaspoon of all three. Then add one to two teaspoons water and one teaspoon apple cider vinegar. Mix all ingredients together into a paste, then apply the mask to your pits generously. Wait 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water and soap. You can repeat this process every several days if you’d like, assuming you have no negative reactions. How long does it take to detox your armpits? It really depends on the individual. Some people report that they smell and sweat more for several weeks after stopping to use antiperspirants, during which the body’s bacteria levels and pH are likely adjusting. For others, this transition might last only a few days. Other Armpit Detox Tips Shower daily with an antibacterial agent. This reduces the smelly bacteria count on your skin. Opt for organic products when possible, and consider even taking your own soaps using essential oils, which are natural bacteria-fighters, such as tea tree oil and lemongrass oil. After showering, towel off and try to leave your skin as dry as possible. Wear natural fabrics that let your skin breath. Damp, sweaty clothes are the most likely to smell, so make sure to wash your clothes thoroughly using antibacterial laundry soap. (Try this homemade laundry soap.) Consider if your diet may be contributing to body odor, especially if you consume lots of sugar, meat and refined carbs. Benefits What happens when you detox your armpits? Does it work? Here are some of the purposes and potential benefits: 1. Balanced Bacteria (Which Can Help Reduce Body Odor) By applying products to your pits that naturally stick to smell-causing bacteria and then remove it, or kill bacteria on contact, you reduce unwanted odors. As said above, apple cider vinegar can help reduce the presence of smelly bacteria, such as Actinobacteria and Micrococcus sedentarius, and support the skin’s natural pH balance in the process (which is slightly acidic). This contributes to a healthy “skin microbiome” in your armpit area. Typically a healthier microbiome (including in your mouth) equals less offensive smells. 2. Can Help Improve Skin Health Antiperspirants can be irritating to the skin in some cases, especially if someone has a fragrance sensitivity or generally sensitive skin, so opting for a detox and more natural products is a good alternative to keep skin happy. Another downside to using antiperspirants is that they are drying, since they’re intended to reduce sweating. These leaves skin vulnerable to become chaffed, red and inflamed. If your armpits tend to become irritated easily, the key to a safe detox is using the right gentle ingredients and nothing too harsh or drying. 3. Removes Residue From Antiperspirants Commercial antiperspirants may leave behind trace amounts of chemicals that can become “stuck” inside the pores in the armpits. There haven’t actually been studies proving that an armpit detox can do this, but it makes sense that by taking a break from using antiperspirants you give your body time to shed these ingredients (usually over the course of one to three days) and open up your pores for other helpful ones. Risks and Side Effects Some of the ingredients used in the DIY recipes above may dry out your skin or alter your skin’s pH, so use caution when first beginning to apply these products to your skin. It’s a good idea to perform a patch test to make sure you don’t have any negative reactions, such as allergies, redness or irritation. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction or sensitivity when applying these products, such as redness, itching or hives, discontinue use, and simply avoid applying any products to your skin for a period of time. Remember, an armpit detox is usually done when someone is transitioning from using traditional antiperspirants to natural deodorants. During the first several days or weeks when quitting antiperspirants, some people find that they smell and sweat more than usual, so a detox might help to fix this problem. DIY Armpit Detox Recipe Author: Jill Levy / Total Time: 5 minutes / Yield: 1 application This armpit detox recipe uses ingredients that “soak up” unwanted bacteria and other ingredients from your armpits, leaving behind smoother, less odor-producing skin. Ingredients 1 tablespoon bentonite clay, activated charcoal or baking soda (or 1 teaspoon each) 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar 1 to 2 teaspoons water Instructions Combine the ingredients to make a paste. Mix all ingredients together, then apply the mask to your pits generously. Wait 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water and soap. You can repeat this process every several days if you’d like, assuming you have no negative reactions. Prep Time: 5 min / Category: Detoxifying / Method: Mixing To read the original article click here.

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7 Commonly Overlooked Steps to Improve Your Health This Spring

The AHA! Team — Wed, 07 May 2025 05:18:45 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Embrace the Season of Renewal: Why Spring Is the Perfect Time for a Detox Springtime is often viewed as a season of rebirth, growth, and renewed energy. As the days grow longer and the weather warms, many people experience a surge in motivation and a desire to shake off the sluggishness of winter. Just as we declutter our homes during spring cleaning, our bodies and minds can also benefit from a thorough “cleanse.” A detox or cleanse program can help you start the new season feeling lighter, more energized, and focused on achieving your wellness goals. In fact, it’s the perfect opportunity to hit the reset button on your health and lay a strong foundation for the rest of the year. Why Spring Is an Ideal Time to Restart Your Goals During winter, it’s easy to slip into habits that don’t necessarily serve our health—comfort foods, sedentary lifestyles, and disrupted sleep schedules. With less daylight, our bodies may crave starchy or sugary foods for a quick energy boost, and we often move less due to cold or inclement weather. When spring arrives, it naturally inspires us to become more active, get outside, and lighten our diets. This is an ideal moment to evaluate where you are with your health goals and create a plan to rejuvenate your body. Spring’s symbolism of renewal and growth can be harnessed to your advantage. If you’ve been putting off those New Year’s resolutions or have felt stuck in a rut, a detox or cleanse can provide a fresh start. Instead of feeling guilty about past missteps, you can focus on the positive changes you’ll make moving forward. This shift in mindset is essential for long-term success and can set the tone for healthier choices throughout the rest of the year. The Benefits of a Seasonal Detox A well-structured detox or cleanse can offer a multitude of benefits. By removing certain foods and environmental toxins from your daily routine, you give your body’s natural detoxification systems—primarily the liver, kidneys, and digestive tract—an opportunity to catch up and function more efficiently. Many participants report increased energy, improved mental clarity, clearer skin, and better digestion. In addition to the physical benefits, a detox can also have psychological advantages. It helps break the cycle of sugar or caffeine cravings, reduces dependency on processed foods, and encourages mindfulness around eating. When you consciously eliminate certain foods for a set period, you become more aware of how those foods make you feel, which can lead to healthier, more balanced choices in the long run. Join Dr. Colbert’s Free Detox Challenges If you’re not sure where to start, Dr. Colbert’s Free 7-Day Detox and 21-Day Detox Challenge at DivineHealth.com/challenge offer structured, expert-guided programs to help you on your journey. These challenges provide daily tips, meal plans, and strategies to help you optimize your health and well-being. Whether you choose the 7-day or the 21-day program, you’ll have access to a supportive community and evidence-based resources that make the process both manageable and enjoyable. By the end of the challenge, you’ll likely notice improvements in your energy levels, mental clarity, and overall sense of vitality. Seven Steps to Improve Your Health This Spring 1. Lighten Your Diet Focus on fresh, seasonal produce such as leafy greens, asparagus, and berries. These nutrient-dense foods are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help support your body’s natural detox pathways. 2. Stay Hydrated Drinking enough water is essential for flushing out toxins and keeping your body functioning optimally. Aim for at least eight glasses a day. If plain water feels monotonous, infuse it with fruits like lemon, cucumber, or berries for a refreshing twist. 3. Get Moving Take advantage of the warmer weather to exercise outdoors. A brisk walk, jog, or bike ride can help clear your mind and boost endorphins. Regular physical activity also supports the detox process by increasing circulation and lymphatic flow. 4. Prioritize Sleep Quality sleep is vital for immune function, mental health, and metabolic balance. Aim for 7–9 hours each night and establish a bedtime routine that helps you wind down—like turning off screens an hour before bed or reading a book. 5. Manage Stress Chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances and reduced immunity. Incorporate mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to lower stress levels. Even a few minutes of mindful breathing each day can make a significant difference. 6. Limit Toxins Be mindful of the products you use daily, including household cleaners and personal care items. Opt for natural, non-toxic alternatives when possible. This helps reduce your overall toxic load, making your body’s job easier during a detox. 7. Set Realistic Goals Rather than attempting drastic changes all at once, focus on small, attainable steps. Consistency is more important than perfection. As you start to feel better and see results, you’ll be motivated to keep going and build on your successes. Embrace Renewal and Thrive Spring is a season of transformation, and it can be a powerful time to detoxify your body, refresh your mindset, and refocus on your health goals. Whether you choose a short, focused reset like Dr. Colbert’s 7-Day Detox or commit to the 21-Day Detox Challenge, remember that every small step you take matters. By prioritizing nutrient-dense foods, proper hydration, regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress management, you’ll lay a solid foundation for vibrant health. Don’t let another season pass you by without giving your body the care and attention it deserves. Spring is calling you to step into a fresh, invigorating chapter of your wellness journey—so answer the call, embrace the renewal, and watch your health and vitality bloom. Order Dr. Colbert’s Detox Pack here To read the original article click here.

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Detox with Chelation Therapy — Help Your Heart & Brain

The AHA! Team — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 05:25:41 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Chelation therapy is considered an alternative medicine that has the purpose of removing “heavy metals” and toxins from the body. Why would someone experience heavy metal toxicity in the first place? Although it might sound like something only tied to rare circumstances of accidental poisoning, heavy metals are more common than you think. If you have mercury fillings in your teeth (or amalgam fillings), have been vaccinated to prevent various diseases, eat farm-raised fish regularly, consume foods that are grown in foreign countries (like China) that aren’t certified organic, or are healing from radiation and chemotherapy treatments, you’re likely experiencing heavy metal toxicity right now to some degree. Chelation therapy involves a chemical solution called EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), which is administered into the body — usually directly injected into the bloodstream — so it can bind with excess minerals. Once bound to “toxins” in the body, EDTA helps detox the body of heavy metals by removing them before imbalances and illnesses have the chance to develop. What is chelation therapy good for? First developed and used in the 1950s for the treatment of heavy metal poisoning, chelation therapy using EDTA is now performed to remove common heavy metals, including lead, mercury, copper, iron, arsenic, aluminum and calcium. While still a controversial practice in mainstream medicine and one that requires more research for us to fully understand how it works, studies show that chelation therapy has potential for reducing the risk of heightened inflammation, heart disease, infections and more. A National Health Interview Survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 111,000 adults 18 years or older had used chelation therapy as a form of complementary medicine between the years 2006–2007. (1) Since the popularity of chelation therapy has grown since this time and more health care professionals are being trained in this practice, it’s safe to say that this number is steadily rising. How Chelation Therapy Works Many people who have used chelation therapy regularly feel that it helps them remain more energetic and immune to common illnesses, environmental toxins and stress. Studies show that chelation is scientifically proven to rid the body of excess or toxic metals, especially certain kinds like lead or mercury that can lead to poisoning. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of chelation therapy with EDTA for treating lead poisoning and continues to investigate its potential and safety as a new drug for reducing coronary heart disease symptoms. (1) What is EDTA? EDTA is a type of man-made synthetic amino acid. As an alternative, some practictioners also use another substance in EDTA’s place called DMPS (2,3-Dimercapto-1-propanesulfonic acid), which works similarly. EDTA chelation therapy works by binding salts to molecules in the blood once EDTA is administered into someone’s veins. After EDTA attaches to heavy metals, together they both move to the kidneys where their elimination from the body occurs through urine. It’s possible that “chelating agents” like EDTA and DMPS can help detoxify the body of toxic elements that contribute to many types of chronic diseases. Chelating agents have specific bonds that form between organic molecules and metals. This gives them the ability to “bind” to metals that build up in the blood, major organs and blood vessels. Some chelating agents, including peptides like glutathione and metallothionein, have been well-researched and proven to transport and excrete toxins from the body, all without the need for expensive surgeries and risky medications. One of the biggest chelation therapy benefits is its ability to help control levels of various environmental metals in the body. Metals, including lead, mercury, aluminum and arsenic, can cause short- and long-term health consequences since they impact functions of the central nervous, cardiovascular, immune and skeletal systems. When the body is out of homeostasis due to experiencing imbalances in minerals, malfunction and damage to vital organs can develop. Some of the most symptoms of heavy metal toxicity include: Chronic fatigue syndrome Trouble learning and remembering new information “Brain fog” and trouble concentrating Autoimmune diseases Neurological disorders and cognitive decline Joint or muscle pain Mood changes, including depression and anxiety 5 Benefits of Chelation Therapy 1. Might Help Improve Heart Health Although ongoing research is still underway, some alternative health care providers use chelation therapy to help treat coronary heart diseases, including atherosclerosis (thickening and hardening of the arteries that can potentially lead to a heart attack or stroke). Why do some provides use chelation therapy for heart disease? EDTA binds with calcium within the arteries, helping to reduce plaque build-up and deposits that can cut off blood flow. (2) Once bound to calcium, EDTA can help carry the molecules out of arteries so circulation improves. In a similar way, EDTA might help control high inflammation and cholesterol levels, which also pose a risk for heart disease. In the future, we might see chelation therapy used a less risky and more affordable alternative to heart surgery and complicated mediations that have many side effects. 2. Acts Like an Antioxidant EDTA might act similarly to antioxidants by reducing inflammation, fighting free radical damage and removing metals that cause the foundation of chronic disease development. It’s been suggested that EDTA binds to not only calcium within arteries, but also other metals stored within bones, muscles and bodily tissues that can lead to increased inflammation or pain. The use of certain chelating agents has been shown to successfully lower the presence of plutonium radiation toxicity within the body, which is tied to increased cancer risk. (3) Uranium and radionuclide are two types of chemicals that can cause toxicity, leukemia and osteosarcoma when someone experiences long-term radiation exposure, but chelating agents, including DTPA, are able to help remove these before serious illnesses can form. 3. Lowers Pain and Swelling Since chelation therapy targets inflammation, the root of most diseases, including arthritis and many autoimmune disorders, many people report less pain from inflamed muscles, joints and bones when using EDTA. Although this theory hasn’t yet been proven in controlled scientific studies, chelation therapy might work by helping to reduce the effects of oxygen ions (also called oxidative stress) that can damage blood vessels and tissue. When inflammation causes the walls of vessels to become clogged, circulation decreases and pain grows. Chelation therapy may offer an alternative to ongoing medication treatments for chronic pain. 4. Can Help Fight Cognitive Disorders There’s evidence that chelation therapy can successfully treat cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. While the exact mechanisms in which EDTA helps resolve these problems isn’t yet clear or proven in studies, there seems to be a tie between heavy metal poisoning (or toxicity), including high levels of lead or mercury in the blood, and medical disorders that affect the brain, memory and learning. Research also shows that increased accumulation in the brain of copper, iron and zinc might be associated with a number of neurodegenerative diseases. Long-term heavy metal exposure can lead to physical, muscular and neurological degenerative changes in the brain that set the stage for not only Alzheimer’s disease, but also dementia, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. (4) 5. Helps Lower Risk for Learning Disabilities Sadly, rates of learning disabilities, ADHD symptoms and autism spectrum disorders have been on the rise in recent years, yet how exactly these conditions should be treated or prevented remains controversial in the medical community. Many practitioners are now looking to alternative treatment methods to control symptoms of cognitive disorders, including some like chelation therapy that target heavy metal poisoning. While not technically authorized to be used for treating such conditions, “off-label use” of chelation therapy might be beneficial for cognitive health due to its ability to lower circulating or stored toxic metals that interfere with brain function. (5) Going forward, we should expect to see new proven strategies using chelating agents that are capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier and bringing back homeostasis of minerals levels. Related: Aconite: Safe Homeopathic Remedy or Dangerous Poison? How Chelation Therapy Is Performed Chelation therapy sessions take several hours to complete and usually take place in a doctor’s office under special monitoring. Most patients need between five to 30 treatments for best results. Each treatment session involves insertion of an intravenous (IV) to administer liquid EDTA, usually into a vein located in the hand or arm. The procedure isn’t painful for most people, but like with all injections, it’s possible to feel some burning, redness or swelling at the injection site. There isn’t much recovery time needed after the procedure and most patients are free to drive themselves home and go about their normal day. Some people report needing to urinate more than usual following chelation therapy, which can be beneficial considering this is how heavy metals leave the body. How can you locate a health care provider with appropriate training to perform chelation therapy? Currently the American Board of Clinical Metal Toxicology (ABCMT) is responsible for training and qualifying chelation therapy practitioners. ABCMT has actually been certifying doctors in chelation therapy for over 24 years! The American College for Advancement in Medicine is another organization that offers educational training. Both hold seminars and administer examinations in order for doctors to become board-certified and approved to work with patients. Can you feel safe with a chelation therapy doctor? Most likely, yes! Chelation therapy doctors must be either D.O. or M.D. and have a license to practice in their states, complete a comprehensive course on the diagnosis and treatment of chelation therapy, obtain letters of recommendation, and conduct at least 2,000 intravenous treatments for metal toxicity as part of a preceptorship with a certified physician. You can find out more about the qualifications and seek out a trained practitioner on the American Board of Clinical Medicine Toxicology website. Is chelation therapy covered by insurance? One thing to consider is that currently most insurance companies do not cover chelation therapy. As governing health authorities continue to undergo investigations into its safety and efficacy, it’s only practiced by limited alternative practitioners, which means your regular doctor might not yet offer chelation therapy or be convinced of its benefits. How much does it cost for chelation therapy? Depending on how many treatments your practitioner recommends, chelation therapy cost for an entire course of treatment will vary by patient. Treatments typically cost between $75 and $125. Side Effects of Chelation Therapy You should only receive Chelation therapy with EDTA from a properly licensed professional due to the potential for side effects to develop in some cases. What are the side effects of chelation therapy? The most common side effect is a burning sensation at the site where EDTA is enters the vein, but this usually goes away quickly and is mild. Rare chelation therapy side effects can include headache, fever, nausea, and vomiting. (6) It’s very important for EDTA to be infused properly and slowly, since high levels can cause electrolyte imbalances. It’s also possible that while it removes harmful heavy metals, EDTA can potentially also bind to needed vitamins and minerals and remove them from the body, which poses the risk for deficiencies. To make up for this, many practitioners give patients large doses of vitamins/minerals following chelation therapy so they avoid becoming very deficient. Although it’s very rare, kidney damage and heart failure can also occur due to blood pressure levels dropping suddenly and abnormally low calcium levels in the blood (hypocalcemia). At this time, children, pregnant women, and anyone who has a history of heart disease or kidney problems should not use chelation therapy without consulting with a doctor first. (7) Related: Brain Detox: Is It Time for a Cleanse? (Plus How to Do It) Other Ways to Lower Heavy Metal Toxicity If you’re experiencing symptoms of heavy metal toxicity, chelation therapy along with a reduction in common toxins may be able to help you. How can you lower your exposure to heavy metals in the first place? Start by adjusting your diet and then consider taking supplements that can...

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Keto Lemon Whip Recipe

The AHA! Team — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 08:37:16 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Keto Lemon Whip Recipe Sometimes, life surprises you. Every once in a while, when you expect a delicious food to be “bad for you,” you find out it’s actually bursting with ingredients that are amazingly good for you. Ingredients that support cellular detox and overall health. A Detox Keto Lemon Whip that encourages your body to feel its best. Sometimes, there’s a secret ingredient in your favorite new treat. This is one of those times. Check out the surprising secret ingredient and try our Detox Keto Lemon Whip today. COURSE: Dessert DIFFICULTY: Easy SERVINGS: 2 INGREDIENTS ▢3 cups cauliflower florets, washed and chopped ▢1.5 tablespoons equilavent organic stevia in place of sugar ▢1 teaspoon real vanilla ▢2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice ▢1 teaspoons lemon zest ▢2 tablespoons coconut oil (melted) ▢1 scoop MCT oil powder (vanilla) ▢1/4 cup coconut milk (from carton) INSTRUCTIONS After chopping cauliflower, steam it until it is very tender (you can do this in a steamer basket on the stovetop or by microwaving it in a bowl with 1/4 cup water for 1-2 minutes). Once cooked place the cauliflower in the fridge to cool. Next, place cooled cauliflower florets, stevia, vanilla, lemon juice and zest, coconut oil, MCT oil powder and almond milk in a blender or food processor. Blend until it forms a smooth whipped cream like texture. Put in the fridge. Serves 2. Enjoy! Serves 2. Nutrition Info (per 1 cup serving): 223 calories, 17 grams fat, 12 grams carbohydrates, 7 grams fiber, 5 grams protein To read the original article click here.

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Avoid Expensive Detox Scams

The AHA! Team — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 18:21:07 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – Detoxing continues to be a hot topic in Hollywood and across social media sites. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Gwyneth Paltrow promote cleansing as a way to counter everything from weight gain to the effects of too many cocktails the night before. It’s gotten really out of hand… Today, you can find over-the-counter detox kits in every drug store across the country. They’re a huge business. Last year, sales of detox products topped $100 million. But sadly, you’re being sold a bill of goods regarding these kits. Now, don’t get me wrong, toxins are a huge problem… Your environment has changed dramatically in the last 100 years. And you need a good defense against our toxic world now more than ever. Over 85,000 manmade chemicals have flooded our world. These toxins are everywhere – in the air, in your house, in your workplace, in just about everything you use every day… even in your food and water. We weren’t designed to live in this toxic world. Your body is an amazing detox system. Your liver breaks down toxins so your kidneys and bowels can eliminate them. But that system can be overwhelmed by the modern world. Toxins build up so much that we are becoming walking, talking superfund sites. But here’s the problem with the current detox fad – it’s too little too late. Here’s what I mean… You wouldn’t wait to do an oil change on your car until the motor oil is black and the engine is burning, would you? But that’s what detox peddlers want you to do… They want you to cleanse once things have already gone too far. But if you wait until you really need to cleanse, you risk some pretty awful effects. If you have any of these symptoms, you are already toxic: Memory loss Unexplained headaches or back pain Joint pain or arthritis Unexplained weight gain Depression or lack of energy Psoriasis Abnormal body odor Frequent allergies Brittle nails and hair Bad breath 3 easy ways to “un-toxify” for good health Don’t wait until you have a serious problem to detox. A better approach is to use what I call “un-toxification.” In other words, you want to support your body’s natural cleansing organs before you get overwhelmed with toxins. Here are three easy ways to un-toxify safely. Un-tox your body’s biggest organ. I recommend every patient at my clinic detox with an infrared sauna. I prefer this type of sauna to a traditional steam sauna. Infrared light penetrates several inches into your tissue. This releases debris from the fat underneath your skin. It also allows your body to free toxins stored in other organs and tissues.1In one study, sweat from a traditional sauna was up to 97% water. But sweat released in an infrared sauna was only 80% water. The remaining 20% was made up of fat-soluble toxins.2 Cleanse your internal organs. I recommend un-toxifying your internal organs a couple of times a year. Herbs can help clear toxins from your bloodstream, restore liver function, and flush out your kidneys. Milk thistle (Silybum marianum). This is my first choice for a liver un-tox. Take 200 mg in capsule form twice a day. Look for a dried extract with at least 80% silymarin, the active compound. Triphala. This ancient secret from India is a combination of three powerful herbs. This combination forms a powerful gastric healer and acts as a gentle, safe, and highly effective detoxifier for the intestine, colon, blood, and liver. Triphala also helps clear away impacted buildup in the colon. I recommend supplementing with 1,000 mg once a day before food. Dandelion. This root stimulates bile and acts as a gentle diuretic. A 2017 study found that the polysaccharides in dandelions promote liver function.3 Use 4-10 grams of the dried leaf or 4 to 10 mL of fluid extract. Burdock root. This ancient remedy is a diuretic and diaphoretic. This means it increases urine and sweat. These actions strengthen your natural purging systems.4 Rid your tissues of heavy metals. Activated charcoal is called the “universal antidote.” When you take it orally, toxins are attracted to the surface of charcoal particles. Your body does not absorb the charcoal itself. So the toxins stuck to the charcoal eventually exit your body via the bowels. Activated charcoal can extract and neutralize many more times its own weight in gases, heavy metals, toxins, poisons, and other chemicals. It’s so powerful that a tiny amount – less than the size of a postage stamp – can absorb up to four tennis courts worth of toxins! I regularly use charcoal as part of my personal un-toxification plan. But be careful…too much can rob your body of nutrients and minerals. Take 10-15 grams of powdered activated charcoal mixed with water twice a day, two hours before a meal. Do this over a period of one to two weeks. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: 1. Sears M. “Arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury in sweat: a systematic review.” J Environ Public Health. 2012;2012:184745. 2. Evolution Health. Infrared sauna detoxification. 3. Cai L, et al. “Purification, preliminary characterization and hepatoprotective effects of polysaccharides from dandelion root.” Molecules. 2017;22(9):140. 4. Clare B, et al. “The diuretic effect in human subjects of an extract of Taraxacum officinale folium over a single day.” J Altern Complement Med. 2009 Aug;15(8):929-34. To read the original article click here.

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What to Eat to Help with Seasonal Allergies (Hay Fever)

AHA Publisher — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 07:00:26 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – What did a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study of a food that costs pennies a day for ragweed allergy sufferers find? A “great deal is asked of our immune system. It is firstly required to respond rapidly and violently to invaders, but at the same time limits both the duration of its response and the collateral damage to the host.” Anaphylactic shock, which is “defined as ‘a serious allergic reaction that is rapid in onset and may cause death’”—like when someone with a peanut allergy dies after eating one—is an example of an overactive immune response. The flipside is an underactive immune response, which can put you at risk for infection. If you suffer a severe trauma, for example, it’s not enough to get to a level 1 trauma center. Death related to sepsis, or blood infection, is still a major problem, and a “primary factor in the development of sepsis is depression of host-immune response after severe injury”—that is, depression of our own immune system, caused by the stress of the trauma. Researchers tried to stimulate immune function in trauma victims by injecting them with beta glucan, a type of fiber found in yeast. Most of the subjects were car crash victims, but some suffered from gunshots and stab wounds. Not only did the beta-glucan group suffer less sepsis overall, but they also had five times fewer complications and no deaths, compared to nearly one in three dying in the control group. You may recall that I’ve talked previously about the role of oral beta glucans in the form of nutritional yeast to boost immune function in adults and children. If beta glucans are so immunostimulatory, though, might they increase inflammation and worsen allergies? Actually, dietary yeast may offer the best of both worlds, possessing both anti–inflammatory and anti-microbial abilities. On the one hand, yeast beta glucans activate the immune system to prevent infections, and, on the other hand, they are capable of reducing inflammatory reactions. Given their best-of-both-worlds nature, enhancing immune defense while simultaneously down-regulating inflammations, beta glucans are suggested as a replacement for immunosuppressive drugs to treat inflammatory diseases, like inflammatory bowel disease. It turns out that’s not a good idea for Crohn’s disease or another disease called hidradenitis suppurativa, though, since it can makes things worse, but what about allergies, like hay fever? As I discuss in my video Flashback Friday: Best Food for Hay Fever (Seasonal Allergies), researchers performed a nasal provocation test with tree pollen and then siphoned off some mucus. The subjects who had been taking beta glucans had lower levels of some inflammatory compounds. Based only on that finding, the researchers suggested beta glucans may help people with hay fever—but you don’t know, until you put it to the test. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study compared the effects of daily supplementation with about a teaspoon of nutritional yeast’s worth of beta glucans versus placebo for a month “on physical and psychological health attributes of self-described ‘moderate’ ragweed allergy sufferers.” The ragweed family is one of the leading causes of hay fever. As you can see at 3:02 in my video, when you give people a placebo, nothing much happens. In contrast, the beta-glucan group experienced a significant drop in symptoms and symptom severity: fewer runny noses, fewer itchy eyes, and fewer sleep problems. It’s no wonder they also had less tension, less depression, less anger, less fatigue, less confusion, and more vigor. Improvements in allergy symptoms, overall physical health, and emotional well-being with the beta glucans found in just a single teaspoon of nutritional yeast, which would cost about 5 cents a day. This is part of an extended series about the benefits versus risks of going out of our way to add nutritional yeast to our diet. As I mentioned, I’ve previously talked about the role of oral beta glucans in the form of nutritional yeast. Check out those videos: Flashback Friday: Best Food to Counter Stress-Induced Immune Suppression and Best Food to Prevent Common Childhood Infections. KEY TAKEAWAYS Our immune system must respond quickly to invaders, while also limiting the duration of its response and collateral damage inflicted on us. A primary factor in the development of sepsis, or blood infection, which can be fatal, is depression of our own immune system, caused by the stress of severe injury or trauma. Researchers successfully stimulated immune function in trauma victims (of car crashes, gunshots, or stabbings) with beta glucan, a type of fiber found in yeast, resulting in fewer subjects suffering from sepsis and five times fewer complications and no deaths, compared to nearly one in three dying in the control group. Dietary yeast, such as nutritional yeast, possess both anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial abilities, activating the immune system to prevent infections while also capable of reducing inflammatory reactions. Beta glucans are not recommended for individuals with Crohn’s disease or hidradenitis suppurativa, but daily supplementation with about a teaspoon of nutritional yeast’s worth significantly benefited ragweed allergy sufferers compared with placebo. To read the original article click here.

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Detox Sweet Potato Bean Hash

AHA Publisher — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 08:00:27 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Loaded with nutrients and fiber, sweet potatoes are one of the most delicious detox foods. This is because a successful detox involves not only eliminating toxic substances but also rebuilding the body with nourishing foods. Proper detox requires adequate amounts of fiber. Fiber promotes digestive health. It binds to toxins as they are released in the digestive tract and escorts them out of the body. In addition to their fiber content, sweet potatoes are incredibly nutrient dense. They are notably loaded with vitamin A which is responsible for their characteristic orange color. These root vegetables also have valuable minerals such as magnesium and potassium. This delicious and nourishing sweet potato recipe is sure to become a detox favorite of the whole family! Ingredients 2 organic sweet potatoes, peeled and diced 1 can organic Cannellini (white kidney) beans, drained 1 organic onion, diced 2 cups organic spinach, chopped 3 tbsp organic coconut oil 1 tbsp organic garlic, minced 1/4 tsp organic parsley, chopped 1 tsp sea salt Organic black pepper to taste Instructions In a pan, melt coconut oil on medium heat. Add sweet potatoes, beans, onions and garlic. Stir to combine well. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once beans and potatoes begin to tenderize, add spinach, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 10-15 minutes or until sweet potatoes start to brown. Plate and serve immediately. How did your hash turn out? Let us know in the comments below! For more delicious detox recipes and expert guidance navigating your detox experience, join Dr. Colbert’s 21-Day Detox for FREE today! To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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