detoxification of blood - #19383
I am trying to figure out this whole detoxification of blood thing. A few months ago, I started feeling really sluggish, like I’d wake up tired even after 8 hours of sleep. My friends started suggesting things like detoxification of blood, saying it's a way to get your energy back. I did some research and got a bunch of crazy info on diets and cleanses that are supposed to help with detoxification of blood. At first, I thought it might just be me being lazy, but I also started noticing some weird skin rashes and, sometimes, I get headaches. I went to my doctor, and they said my liver enzymes are a bit outta whack, but that could relate to many things. They mentioned something about the natural detoxification of blood our bodies do, but I feel like I need extra help. Can someone explain to me what this detoxification of blood really is? Would things like herbs or certain diets actually make a difference? I guess I'm just trying to make sure I'm not missing something crucial and really want to feel more like myself again. Is there any science to these detox claims? Any advice would be super appreciated!
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Doctors' responses
The concept of “detoxification of blood” as common popularized through diets and cleanses doesn’t have a strong foundation in scientific medicine. Our body has a highly efficient detoxification system primarily managed by organs like the liver and kidneys. The liver, for instance, breaks down and neutralizes harmful substances, and then they are excreted via urine or stool. When your liver enzymes are abnormal, it could indicate a range of conditions, from mild and temporary to more significant health issues. This should be closely followed by your healthcare provider. As for feeling sluggish and noticing skin rashes along with headaches, these symptoms can have various origins — from lifestyle factors like diet and stress, to conditions like allergies or even more systemic health issues. While herbs and certain diets are often recommended for detoxification, scientific evidence supporting their efficacy is limited and generally not endorsed by mainstream medicine. Many so-called detox diets may not provide enough nutrition or could even be harmful if they lead to calorie deficiency or imbalance of nutrients. It’s far more effective to support your body’s detoxification processes by maintaining a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and staying hydrated. Regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management are also critical. Before making any changes, particularly involving supplements or extreme diets, consult with your healthcare provider. If post-consultation you find that lifestyle modifications don’t help or your symptoms persist, further evaluation may be needed to explore underlying medical conditions. Tending to underlying health issues, rather than attempting unproven detox methods, usually yields more beneficial and lasting results.
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