Detox has become one of the most misunderstood concepts in wellness. For some, it conjures images of juice cleanses and deprivation; for others, it’s dismissed altogether as a marketing myth. The truth lies somewhere in the middle.

Your body is constantly detoxifying — every minute of every day. But in our modern world, the sheer volume of toxins we’re exposed to can place an extra burden on these systems. Understanding how detoxification actually works allows us to support it in intelligent, sustainable ways — without extremes.

What is detoxification, really?

Detoxification is the process by which your body neutralises, transforms, and eliminates substances that could be harmful if allowed to accumulate. This includes external toxins (like chemicals and pollutants) and internal waste products created by normal metabolism.

This process relies on several key organs working in harmony:

• The liver – your primary detox organ
• The gut – responsible for eliminating waste and preventing toxin reabsorption
• The kidneys – filtering the blood and removing water-soluble waste
• The lungs – excreting volatile toxins
• The skin – supporting elimination via sweat

If any part of this system becomes overwhelmed, detoxification becomes less efficient.

The three phases of liver detoxification

The liver carries out detoxification in three main phases:

Phase 1 – Activation
Enzymes break toxins into intermediate compounds. This step can actually make toxins more reactive temporarily, which is why Phase 2 is so important.

Phase 2 – Conjugation
The liver attaches nutrients (such as amino acids, sulphur compounds, and antioxidants) to these toxins, making them safer and easier to eliminate.

Phase 3 – Elimination
These now-neutralised toxins are excreted via bile (into the gut) or urine (via the kidneys).

This is why detox isn’t about “flushing” — it’s about ensuring the body has the raw materials it needs to complete each step efficiently.

Where do toxins come from?

We are exposed to far more toxins than previous generations, often without realising it. Common sources include:

• Ultra-processed foods and food additives
• Alcohol and medications
• Household cleaning products and fragrances
• Skincare and cosmetics
• Plastics, pesticides, and environmental pollution
• Chronic stress (yes — stress creates toxic metabolic by-products)

Over time, this load can contribute to fatigue, brain fog, hormonal imbalance, digestive issues, skin problems, and difficulty losing weight.

How to support detoxification naturally

Supporting detox doesn’t require restriction — it requires nourishment and rhythm.

1. Eat to support the liver
Protein is essential for Phase 2 detoxification. Include eggs, fish, poultry, legumes, and high-quality protein at every meal. Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, rocket) support detox enzymes, while bitter foods help stimulate bile flow.

2. Support the gut
Daily bowel movements are non-negotiable for detox. Fibre, hydration, fermented foods, and nervous system regulation all play a role here.

3. Sweat intentionally
Sauna bathing and movement support elimination through the skin — an often overlooked detox pathway.

4. Regulate the nervous system
Chronic stress diverts energy away from detoxification. Breathwork, Pilates, walking, and rest are powerful detox tools.

5. Reduce what you can’t detox
Switching to cleaner household products, reducing alcohol, and being mindful of personal care products lowers the overall toxic load.

Detox as a lifestyle, not a quick fix

True detoxification is not a 3-day cleanse — it’s a way of living that supports your body’s innate intelligence. When we nourish, rest, move, and breathe well, detox happens naturally.

And when we create space to slow down — the body responds.