Detoxification therapy involves ridding the body of various toxins absorbed from our environment. Toxins alter the body's metabolism and cause enzyme dysfunction, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances and damage to the immune system, all of which contribute to physiological and psychological decline.

Detoxification helps to eliminate toxins from the body and as a result may improve immune function, hormone function and psychological wellness. Some practitioners believe detoxification may also aid in the prevention of chronic diseases.

A detoxification program can include many aspects, here are just a few:

Cleansing diets: There are many different types of detoxification (detox) diets. Usually these include the avoidance of “sensitive foods” such as wheat and dairy, eating organic rather than processed foods, minimizing meats and maximizing fruits and vegetables and drinking filtered water.

Vitamin therapy: A number of vitamins, minerals and amino acids are required to support the body as it eliminates toxins. Antioxidant nutrients, such as vitamins C and E, are able to neutralize certain toxins called free radicals. A free radical is a particular type of atom or group of atoms that can damage cells, impair a person's immunity and increase the risk of chronic disease, such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s and cancer.

IV therapy: Intravenous (IV) therapies can effectively treat heavy metal poisoning (lead, mercury). The toxic metals are then flushed out naturally through the kidneys. Agents like glutathione, zinc, vitamin C and the amino acid cysteine are effective “chelators” (removers) of heavy metals and other toxins. These nutrients also support the detoxification process in the liver.

Infrared sauna therapy: Saunas have been used for centuries by cultures around the world to bring about detoxification. Heat causes toxins to be released from cells, which then collect in the lymph fluid. Since sweat is manufactured from lymph fluid, many toxins present in the lymph will exit through the sweat.

Hydrotherapy: Alternating between hot and cold water showers stimulates circulation of both blood and lymph, and thereby helps the body to flush toxins. In theory, hot water soothes and relaxes the body, while cold water discourages inflammation.