Detox for preconception
Detoxification, and the many associated benefits, is becoming increasingly popular when undertaken for preconception. This article will explore some of the benefits of detoxing so that you can use the information covered as part of your detox for preconception planning or in preparation for fertility treatment, for both women and men, in order to increase the chances of successful conception, and a healthy pregnancy and birth.
What are toxins?
Toxins are a natural by-product of the body’s everyday functions and as a result detoxification is an ongoing process in every cell in the body. Our bodies are highly effective at dealing with toxins, however, due to a combination of factors including lifestyle, diet, personal hygiene products, genetics and exposure to pollutants and contaminants, alongside increased research and a deeper nutritional knowledge, the need to aid detoxification has increased.
Why detox?
The main aim of a detox is to try to support the main organs in the body that are involved in detoxification (such as the liver, kidneys and skin) by nourishing the body with nutrient rich food whilst avoiding non nourishing drink and food, such as alcohol, sugar and white flour products. Toxins are stored in fat cells, the liver, brain and bones, to name just a few. The liver is one of the main organs involved in the detoxification process and is vital for the breakdown of estrogen, hormones, drugs and alcohol. It is therefore essential to ensure that it is kept as healthy as possible preconception or prior to fertility treatment – bear in mind that your liver will have to process the fertility drugs).
It is important that any detoxification program begins, for both parents, at least three months (or ideally six months) before trying to conceive or commencing fertility treatment. This is because detoxification facilitates the release of toxins and also the excretion of these toxins. As a result there is a much higher level of toxins circulating in the system, often in conjunction with symptoms of detoxification.
How can you detox for preconception?
- Have a drink of hot water and a slice of fresh lemon before breakfast each day as this will help alkalize the body and aid the liver in the detoxification process.
- Avoid white flour products, sugar and alcohol.
- Eat organic produce wherever possible.
- Eat plenty of wholegrains and pulses – lentils, peas and beans.
- Home-bake and include plenty of soups and broths.
- Include natural sugars in the diet – for example Manuka honey or locally produced honey.
- Get some fresh air everyday – take a 20-30 minute walk to help stimulate the lymphatic system which will help to remove toxins from the body.
- Enjoy a bath in Epsom salts or magnesium salts at the end of the day.
- Spend some time relaxing in the evenings before going to sleep.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day (6-8 half pint glasses if possible over 24 hours).
- Try dry skin brushing/body brushing – Dry skin brushing helps to improve circulation, stimulates lymphatic drainage and firms the skin. The improvement in circulation is thought to improve brain function and provides more energy. By improving lymphatic flow it can help prevent the formation of unsightly cellulite. Dry brushing also removes old dead skin cells, and the toxic debris within them, while initiating the development of new skin cells.