Natural Cleanse

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that some people still carry traces of dangerous and persistent chemicals in their bodies banned in the United States 25 to 30 years ago. Digestive discomforts, skin problems, fatigue and weight issues may all be signs that the body’s detoxification system is in overload. With spring in full swing, now is the perfect time for a spring-cleaning -- from the inside out.

The human body has natural systems in place to remove toxins encountered in daily life from the environment, food and products. Cleansing, or detoxifying, allows the body to be more efficient in flushing out these toxins. “Doing a cleanse” typically involves making changes to diet, exercise, skincare and stress management for a specific timeframe. It can support kidney, colon and liver function, promote healthy skin and may also support weight control by enabling efficient liver function and encouraging a healthier diet.

“The human body has an incredible capacity to eliminate toxins,” states Jody Villecco, food and nutrition quality standards coordinator at Whole Foods Market. “But when the human body is exposed to higher levels of toxins—for example, from medications, caffeine, alcohol, cigarettes, household cleaners—the body may need extra support. A whole body approach to cleansing gives your body a fresh start.”

Following are top tips to get the most out of the cleansing process from Whole Foods Market’s Whole Body department experts:
1. Support the liver: The liver is the body’s key organ of detoxification, so supporting it during a cleanse is important. Liver-supportive herbal supplements include milk thistle, dandelion root and artichoke extract.
2. Drink more water: Water helps battle hunger and wash away toxins; add lemon or pure unsweetened cranberry juice to stimulate digestion.
3. Eat right, eat light: Eat leafy greens, cruciferous veggies (broccoli family) and cleanse-appropriate foods (including beets, artichokes, lemons, onions, garlic, cranberries, apples, avocadoes, spinach, berries and oatmeal) to replenish vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber.
4. Remove potential toxins from your environment: Eat organic; use natural cleaning products and eco-friendly products around the home, such as a water filter.
5. Take it low and slow: Slow down all activities, avoid stressors and get plenty of rest.

For more information, listen to the podcast at http://wholefoods.com/socialmedia/wholebody. Cleansing options and helpful suggestions are available at all Whole Foods Market locations. Many stores will host lectures on cleansing throughout May. Check local listings for more information and events at www.wholefoodsmarket.com.

*The information provided is for educational purposes by Whole Foods Market and is not intended as medical advice. To obtain more in-depth information contact your healthcare professional or other reliable resources.

About Whole Foods Market®
Founded in 1980 in Austin, Texas, Whole Foods Market (www.wholefoodsmarket.com) is the world’s leading natural and organic foods supermarket and America’s first national certified organic grocer. In fiscal year 2006, the company had sales of $5.6 billion and currently has more than 191 stores in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The Whole Foods Market motto, “Whole Foods, Whole People, Whole Planet”™ captures the company’s mission to find success in customer satisfaction and wellness, employee excellence and happiness, enhanced shareholder value, community support and environmental improvement. Whole Foods Market, Harry’s Farmers Market®, and Fresh & Wild® are trademarks owned by Whole Foods Market IP, LP. Whole Foods Market employs more than 45,000 team members and has been ranked for ten consecutive years as one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” in America by FORTUNE magazine.

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The Third National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals, July 21st , 2005, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Second National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals. Atlanta (GA): CDC, 2005.

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