Signs of Body Detoxing

The modern world can have many effects on the human body. Convenience often comes at the price of preservatives and pollutants that build up in the body over time, resulting in feelings of sluggishness and general ague. Because of this, some people choose to go through a detoxification process to flush these inhabitants out of the system.

Detoxification Process

• The human body is being constantly inundated with foreign particles that are considered toxic. These include, but are not limited to, second-hand smoke, smog, chemicals in unfiltered water, harmful bacteria, and packaged food preservatives. The body is constantly going through some stage of detoxification, but when a person decides to put detox into overdrive (through juice fasting, colon cleansing, etc.), the immune system works hard on expelling these toxins from the body through any outlet possible.

The Healing Crisis

• When the immune system goes into overdrive trying to rid the body of harmful pollutants, a person can wind up feeling worse for a short period of time. This collective range of symptoms is known as the healing crisis and includes:

  - General malaise that mimics the flu
  - Vomiting and diarrhea
  - Nausea
  - Joint and muscle aches
  - Fever
  - Elevated thirst
  - Fatigue

  The healing crisis can last anywhere from a few days to two weeks, depending on a person's initial health and the amount of toxins in the body at the start of the process.

Hygiene Issues

• Aside from the flu-like state of the healing process, detoxification can manifest itself in other ways. As the body tries to expel pollutants from every outlet possible, some people will notice physical symptoms such as a thick coating on the tongue or strong body odor (as toxins work their way out of the pores). The skin can sometimes erupt into small rashes as well.

Easing the Process

• Some people will interpret the healing crisis as an oncoming illness and try to combat the symptoms with medication. It is important to refrain from this, as the purpose of detoxification is to rid the body of built-up chemicals and pollutants. Extra rest will help during this period, as will an increased intake of water. To combat the effects on the skin, warm showers with vigorous scrubbing are recommended.