Detox Basics with Dr. Lexi Loch, ND

I received an email recently with the question "How do you approach detoxification? Do you recommend chelation for this?" It's an important question, so I decided to check with one of my favorite naturopaths, Dr. Lexi Loch ND, for her opinion.

I responded to the questioner with my advice followed by Dr. Lexi's comments. Here is what we said:

"I am big on starting with the basics. When undergoing a detoxification program, it's especially important to maintain proper nutritional support. (an excellent way to get this is with the Energy Revitalization Drink Mix). You should also be sure to stay hydrated and eat a high-fiber diet. I prefer this to chelation, which has the problem of depleting people’s minerals, unless they are take a really good multivitamin each day." — Dr. T

Dr. Lexi, an expert on detox, added the following:

"I definitely agree with what Dr. Teitelbaum said above. Chelation can be effective if that’s the route that someone wants to take. But yes, it can be depleting, especially if someone has already been dealing with fatigue, weight loss, trouble maintaining muscle mass, etc. One of the best things that can be done for supporting detoxification is to make sure our emunctories (ways to eliminate toxins) are functioning: skin (sweating, sauna, dry skin brushing), regular bowel movements, hydration, deep breathing, supporting the liver, and emotional release. Once someone has those areas optimized, then I think about encouraging a deeper detoxification. Hope that helps!" — Dr. Lexi Loch, ND