There are many preconceived ideas circulating around “detox cures”. We explain to you what it is and how to do it with Dr. Franck Gigon, micro-nutritionist and phytotherapist.
This is the big trend every year. After the end-of-year holidays and their copious (and often alcoholic) meals, many people want to eliminate the excess accumulated during this period. We often hear about “detox”, but without really knowing what it really is. The body, naturally, is capable of getting rid of substances, produced by the body or coming from outside, which can become toxic when accumulated. One organ in particular has this role: the liver. “It is the body’s detoxification factory par excellence”, summarizes Dr Franck Gigon, nutritionist and phytotherapist, author of “Detox Plants” and “Longevity and Full Health”. The objective is “to optimize the elimination of these substances as soon as they arrive or are produced” in our body. In certain cases, particularly in cases of excess food, the liver can find itself overworked by the large quantity of substances it must get rid of.
Fortunately, there are several ways to help. First, by eating more dietary fiber. They indeed have a (super) power: they “trap and carry directly into the stool” substances to be eliminated, according to Dr. Gigon. Another way to promote detoxification is to take care of your intestinal flora, the famous microbiota. This also has a super power, since it is “capable of detoxifying and neutralizing toxic molecules upstream”, thus facilitating the work of the liver, explains the nutritionist. But for this, this flora must be balanced and healthy. We therefore rely on prebiotic foods, such as garlic, onion, or even oats.
Then, it is possible to directly help the liver thanks to certain foods which “will increase the capacity of hepatic detoxification, and support the function of the liver and gallbladder”, such as garlic and onion once again, but also black radish and cabbage, lists Dr Gigon. Other foods are known for their benefits on the detoxification process, such as lemon, avocado or even organic green tea. Conversely, you must avoid excess sugar, processed fats, and processed proteins if you want to avoid overloading your liver.
Of course, we don’t forget to hydrate ourselves sufficiently: at least 1.5 liters of water per day. And after each glass of alcohol, Dr. Gigon recommends drinking not one, but two glasses of water. He also gives a little tip before a hearty meal: “drink one to two tablespoons of olive oil”, which helps “limit the absorption of toxic substances”. Finally, we can provide additional help to the liver with food supplements sold in pharmacies, which “promote liver detox”.
For optimal detoxification, follow all of these tips before, during and in the days following the holiday season – or any time that causes excess. The result: “less fatigue, better recovery”, and this “can affect bloating”, according to Dr Gigon. No more having to unbutton your pants after New Year’s Eve!