Detox is in. The trendy influx of detox patches, cleansing diets, infrared saunas and talk about colon cleanse appointments is all a sign that people are wising up to what they put in their body, why it stays there and how to get it out.
While the body is already a lean, mean cleaning machine in and of itself, there are many ways to assist the body in detoxification sans 7-day starvation diets.
Drink water, break a good sweat by exercising five (5) times per week and splish, splash in a detox bath every once in a while.
Since the Shakespeare times, Epsom salt baths have been used to alleviate aches and pains yet only with modern science, have we learned why. Magnesium, the key kicker in Epsom salt, helps to relax the nervous system, curing skin problems, aching limbs, back pain, healing cuts, muscle strain and alleviating symptoms associated with common colds and sinus congestion.
Even still, most Americans are magnesium deficient, according to the National Academy of Sciences, which the academy attributes to high rates of heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, arthritis and joint pain, digestive problems, stress-related complications, chronic fatigue and more.
With society levels of magnesium dropping nearly half in the last century, Americans aren't able to recoup magnesium through food intake, due to changes in agriculture and diet. For information on the changes happening in our food industry, click here. In addition, supplementation is not a viable option since magnesium is not easily absorbed by the digestive tract. But leave it to the body's largest organ, the skin, to pick up the slack.
Studies have shown that taking Epsom salt (scientifically known as hydrated magnesium sulfate) allows for absorption through the skin, leaving a soak that carries the benefits of both magnesium and sulfate. While magnesium works to alleviate the symptoms listed, sulfate assist in formation of brain tissue, joint proteins and strengthening the walls of the digestive tract, aiding in a more efficient evacuation system. For more information on how it works, click here.
Together, both of these bath buddies, lift levels of digestive enzymes in the pancreas and detoxify the body of earthly messiness. As evident on the Epsom Salt Industry Council website, health benefits range from improved heart health, detoxification and purification of heavy metals from physical cells, improving the body's ability to use insulin, improved nerve function, reduce inflammation and cramps, improved oxygen use and more.
The site recommends taking a minimum of three baths a week and soaking for at least 12 minutes in two cups of Epsom salt. Epsom salt can be found at your natural health food store, the pharmacy and most grocery stores. While there are many brands to choose from, the lower-priced salts are just as effective as the rest - sans spruces of lavender or mint that may be infused in higher-end supplies.
Even if you are weary of new detox trends, the steady stay of Epsom salt has super detox advantage. While the marketing may not be as high-tech as that of infrared saunas or Kanuki foot pads, there's science behind the salt.
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