How to get your body back after the holidays

Purpose & side effects of cleansing

The purpose of a cleansing system is to increase your natural detoxification mechanisms - primarily perspiration, urination and defecation -- and make them more efficient.

That will help pull the toxins from storage and get them out of your body.

One thing I hear over and over from people who have tried cleanses in the past is that they felt bad side effects during the first part of the process.

That's understandable because most detoxification plans are great at helping the body release toxins but fail to complete the cleansing process by getting rid of them. I've felt some of those same symptoms myself.

A cleansing process increases the amount of bile excreted by the liver, moves toxins out through the intestines, and enhances the lymphatic system's ability to move toxins out through the urine and stool.

When toxins pass through the intestines, they may be reabsorbed through the bloodstream, making you feel lousy.

To be effective, the cleansing system must use dispersible fiber to gently and safely purge built-up toxins from the body.

You'll also want to choose something without harsh laxatives, and that supports healthy liver and gall bladder function.

I always recommend to my patients Whole Body Cleanse, a botanical formula that uses a proprietary fiber to bind the toxins and ensure that they get out of your system. Don't be fooled by high fiber content on the labels.

Many brands form big ineffective clumps once they get in your body. Fiber needs to dissolve to increase its surface area and absorption capacity.

Whole Body Cleanse doesn't contain the same irritating botanicals that some other products do so you'll be able to go to work, and continue to live your life, without unwanted side effects.

If you are taking medications, check with your doctor before starting a cleansing process.

And be sure to take any medication 45 minutes before or after taking a fiber supplement.

After completing the cleansing process, follow up with a quality probiotic formula to ensure that your intestines are replenished with a healthy supply of beneficial microflora for optimal digestion and absorption of vital nutrients, and to keep bad bacteria levels under control.