What is it?
Detoxification is the process of ridding the body of known poisons that interrupt cellular processes. Heavy metals, pesticides, food additives, petrochemicals and by-products from germs are all poisonous to the human body. Foods you cannot metabolise and excessive supplements or medication may also be toxic.
Functional Medicine regards toxicity as a key driver of disease because it impairs proper functioning throughout the body including the metabolic, immunologic, neurologic, digestive and endocrine systems.
There are various methods of detoxification that a well-trained practitioner can recommend. Diet, supplementation, chelation, exercise, energy medicine and cleaning up the environment can all support detoxification.
Who is it for?
Detoxification supports cellular health and therefore works to both treat and prevent a range of conditions including but not exclusive to;
ADHD, Allergies, Anxiety, Asthma, Autism, Behaviour, Cancer, Celiac, Chronic Fatigue, Depression, Diabetes, Digestive Disorders, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Eating Disorders, Eczema, Food Intolerances, Heart Disease, Infections, Learning Delay, Obesity, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Pyroluria, Schizophrenia, Sensory Integration, Speech-Language Delay.
In sick people detoxification can lead to improved immunity. In a healthy person (with accumulating toxins), it can prevent disease.
Children can especially benefit from reducing toxic load (which can improve cellular health) during important periods of mental and physical development.
What are the benefits?
According to the Functional Medicine model, detoxification supports cellular health which in turn supports all body systems. The benefits may include improved metabolic, immunologic, neurologic and digestive function.
Detoxification may also reduce oxidative stress and inflammation which in turn could reduce symptoms of allergies, arthritis, asthma, ADHD, Autism and a wide range of disease.
Detoxification may also help to reduce infections which tend to thrive when the body is in a weakened state.
What are the costs?
Costs of Detoxification vary and are best assessed by a skilled Functional Medicine practitioner. They might include consulting fees, lab tests, supplements, books, special foods and consulting from an allied professional (e.g. nutritionist).
Where can I find a certified practitioner?
Finding a well-trained Integrative and/or Functional practitioner requires research but is a vital step in treating complex and chronic illness.
Below are links to lists of practitioners worldwide. We recommend you research the scope, expertise and experience of any practitioners you are considering.
U.S. & Global
Institute of Functional Medicine
https://ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/
Integrative Medicine for Mental Health
http://www.immh.org/find-a-practitioner/
Medical Academy of Paediatric Special Needs (MAPS)
http://www.medmaps.org/clinician-directory/
Australia & New Zealand
Mindd Foundation
https://directory.mindd.org/
The Australian College of Nutritional & Environmental Medicine (ACNEM)
https://www.acnem.org/practitioners/
UK
The British Society for Ecological Medicine
https://www.bsem.org.uk/pages/14-practitioners
Disclaimer: Mindd Foundation does not endorse any specific individuals listed and makes no representations, warranties, nor guarantees and assumes no responsibility for any services provided. Mindd Foundation expressly disclaims all liability for damages of any kind as a result of using any products or services provided by those listed.
