Spring is a time for renewal, for personal reflection, for rejuvenation, and for cleansing and detoxification.
Skin issues such as acne, eczema, hyper pigmentation, cellulite or cellular aging can be prevented or reversed by following a health supporting lifestyle and a regular goal-oriented detoxification program. We are ingesting hundreds of chemicals daily; the majority of them, our bodies can not metabolize. Many of these chemicals are used in regular food processing. These toxins are stored in fat cells and impede our tissues and organs from functioning properly. They are also the cause of the "orange peel" look of cellulite.
Cellulite is a combination of fluid retention and accumulation of trapped waste products and toxins in the body's fat cells, beneath the skin in concentrated areas, appearing as localized and dimpled skin. Cellulite tissues have increased toxins in their fat cells, increased fat cell expansion, hardening of their cellular walls, and decreased local circulation and lymphatic drainage. Cellulite formation is a sign of a congested body system, and a congested system can affect our metabolism, our brain chemistry, and our hormonal balance.
Our sex hormones play a part in the formation of cellulite. Estrogen imbalances are often involved. Cellulite can be seen in 80-90% of post-pubertal woman while it is quite rare in men. Prevention of estrogen dominance is important in eliminating or minimizing this cellulite formation. A strong and healthy liver is needed for this, since it is the organ that tries to neutralize estrogen metabolites and eliminate them from the body. If this process does not occur properly, excess circulating estrogens may occur. Thus, eliminating excess hormones through a targeted detox diet is a key step in reducing cellulite.
Meanwhile, the liver performs a series of reactions to neutralize other toxic compounds, including air pollutants, food additives, hormones, pesticides, heavy metals, medications, antibiotics and alcohol. It is needed as well for maintaining processes for energy and cellular metabolism, for cholesterol and steroid hormone balancing, and for proper nutrient utilization for new cells & tissues. It is a very busy organ that is regularly being abused! Seeking a professional to help you with a specific liver detoxification protocol is key.
Incorporating liver supporting foods in our diet allows for decreased metabolic stress on our system. Garlic, Sencha green tea, green leafy vegetables, turmeric, broccoli, beets, parsley and dandelion greens are a few of these foods.
Signs of cellular toxicity vary greatly with the individual and may include:
· Allergies, food & chemical sensitivities
· Weight issues
· Irritability and mood changes
· Difficulty concentrating and brain fog
· Headaches and migraines
· Digestive issues, gas and bloating
· Muscle & joint aches
· Recurring infections
· PMS or menopausal signs & symptoms
· Acne, eczema, cellulite and other skin issues
A proper detoxification protocol should support and allow our organs to be effective in their natural process of toxin elimination. These organs include the liver, kidneys, bowels, sweat glands, lungs, and also the skin. By assisting our cells in excreting these excess toxins, results such as increased energy and better cognitive ability, improved general well-being, weight loss and radiant, smooth and youthful skin could be experienced.
Proper nutrition, specific goal-oriented supplementation and physical activity can improve the natural detoxification processes. The foundation of youth is based on these main pillars: regular exercise, optimal individualized nutrition, reduction of internal and external stresses, quality sleep, and skin care.
Rebuilding the foundation of youth is from within!
Marie-Claude Beaulieu, RHN
Holistic Nutritionist