How can exercise help you detox?
What is detoxification?
Detoxification refers to the removal of excess toxins and waste products from your system. This can leave you feeling less sluggish and give you increased energy levels, healthier skin and generally improve the functioning of your organs.
Along with dietary changes, there are also certain types of exercise that can assist with the process of detoxification.
The flushing out of toxins is one of the many benefits of exercise. Your heart rate and breathing increase when you exercise, as well as your blood circulation and sweat production - this can assist your body in being able to get rid of toxins more efficiently. Exercise also improves digestion and elimination which means you will be able to get rid of more waste products.
When blood circulation increases, the liver can work more efficiently, and lymph can move around the body more quickly. We also tend to take in more fluid when we exercise, which in turn enhances kidney function and ultimately the flushing of toxins from the body.
Is there a particular type of exercise that is best for assisting detoxification?
All types of exercise will promote detoxification to some degree provided your heart rate and breathing rate increase.
Low to moderate intensity cardiovascular exercises such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming or participating in a group exercise or dance class will have the biggest benefits.
A minimum of around 30 minutes 2-3 times per week of this type of exercise is suggested.
- Benefits of abdominal exercise
Abdominal exercises such as crunches and other core workouts can be beneficial as this is where the elimination organs in the body are concentrated – the kidneys, liver, and intestines. When this area is stimulated through exercise, blood flow to this part of the body will be increased, thereby helping waste move through your system more efficiently. Make core training a regular part of your exercise routine. - Encourage the flow of lymph
Participating in yoga and Pilates classes can also help the process of detoxification – there are certain poses in yoga, such as the shoulder stand pose, that encourage the flow of lymph and are beneficial for healthy elimination which will help to rid the body of toxins. Learning to breathe more efficiently - as is the case when practising yoga - is beneficial as it helps to improve blood circulation. - Exercise until you perspire
Any exercise which increases sweat production can assist with detoxification. It is, however, very important to ensure you are drinking enough water before, during and after exercise to replace lost fluids and avoid becoming dehydrated.
Make a commitment to start moving more, while also ensuring you are eating a balanced diet and drinking enough water to experience the benefits that improved detoxification can bring.
Disclaimer: The content of this page is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. References are available on request.