Sodium Bentonite Detox

Many detoxification methods exist, ranging from strong laxative herbs to simply eating lots of fresh fruit. One method calls for using sodium bentonite clay. Although it may seem odd to ingest what amounts to a type of dirt, clay has been used as a remedy for centuries by several different groups of people, including the Native Americans.

Why Detox with Clay

• Sodium bentonite clay is just one of many types of clay that can be ingested. Others include monmorillonite and French green clay. Bentonite, in particular, is a good choice for detoxification because of its ability to absorb toxins and heavy metals through a process a little like static cling. The metals and chemicals adhere to the surface of the clay as it passes through your system, and they are not released.

  You can find bentonite as a standalone product, in powder form. It also is included in many colon cleansing products that also include psyllium husk and herbs. Bentonite alone can help cleanse your body of toxins such as food additives, environmental pollutants, and heavy metals such as lead, copper, and mercury. Depending on your health goals, however, you may choose to use an all-in-one product instead.

  If you use the clay by itself, mix one tablespoonful (use a non-metal spoon and cup) of the clay powder in eight ounces of pure (distilled or filtered) water. Drink this “clayish water” once a day for three days and refrain for four days. The next week, drink clayish water for four days and then lay off it for three days. Follow the four-days-on, three-days-off schedule for two more weeks. Your body should be adjusted to the bentonite by this time, with your bowel movements becoming more regular. After this routine, many people graduate to what is called “clay magma,” which is a thicker gel-like mixture of the clay.

Considerations

• There are some side effects to consider as you decide whether to use a sodium bentonite clay detox program. The main complaint is constipation. Proponents of the program say the clay itself is not constipating--rather, the health condition of the bowel was bad to begin with, and the cleansing action of the clay brings this to light. Be that as it may, many people find that they do better if they drink at least two quarts of clean water per day while they're ingesting the bentonite. Since two quarts is the recommended amount of water for most adults, this should be done anyway. Other side effects you may notice are slight cramping, increased mucous production, muscle soreness, and headache. These symptoms are common on any detox program and indicate that your body is ridding itself of toxins that have built up in your tissues.

  If you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, iron intolerance, or intestinal adhesions, you should discuss this program with your doctor before beginning. Take the clay on an empty stomach and wait at least two hours before taking any medications or supplements because the absorptive power of the clay can disrupt their effectiveness.