Detoxification is one of the major steps in processing the overloaded hormonal and toxic environment our bodies exist in everyday.  Our liver handles most of this but because of genetic predisposition and environmental burden, many of us don’t do this well.  Especially if you have hormonal imbalances, PCOS, or estrogen dominance, your detoxification processes may not be working as well as they could.

The liver goes through 2 main phases of detoxification: first breaking down toxins via protein amino acids, then conjugating and releasing them through the bile, stool, and urine.

There are some foods that help with detoxification and you should focus on consuming ample amounts of these daily:

• Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and brussels sprouts
• Broccoli sprouts (powdered version here) 
• Cabbage
• Arugula
• Kale
• Daikon Radish
• Bok Choy
• Collards
• Turnips
• Leeks
• Garlic and Onions
• Carrots and other orange foods (glucoronidase inhibitors come from beta carotene)
• Protein containing foods

If you have been on acid blockers or PPI medication, you may not break down protein properly.  In these cases, it is sometimes helpful to use a digestive enzyme (like this one)  but you should consult your doctor or nutritionist if you are still on these medications.

One of the best ways to bump up your body’s ability to detox is to consume broccoli sprouts.  These can be found in powdered form and added to smoothies as well!  Here’s a good one! 

However, you may benefit from supplementation to help support your detoxing processes as well.  Below are my favorite supplements for detox:

Supporting Phase 1 Detox 

Magnesium- helpful for all parts of the energy and detox chain.  Here’s one of my favorite brands. 

Amino Acids- helpful to support ample protein (like these)

Supporting reduction of free radicals (produced between Phase 1 and 2 detox)

NAC- produces the master anti-oxidant, glutathione (i like this one)

MTHFR gene mutation

If you have this mutation, a methylated B-complex (like this one) would be very helpful for supporting your body’s ability to detox

A functional nutritionist or doctor can help test you for potential gene mutations that might impair your natural ability to detox.  This is helpful for learning what phase in the chain needs the most support.

Phase 2 Detoxification

Calcium D Glucarate – helps the gut excrete toxins (find it here)

DIM- Helps conjugate toxins for release.  This is a good one. 

If you have PCOS, I have a section all about supplements and estrogen dominance in my course, Functional PCOS!

Also important for detox is supporting your liver by avoiding as much exposure as possible to toxins.   Always aim to consume clean, filtered water, avoid plastics, and reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption and added sugars.