When you choose to do a Liver Detox it is important to know that there are 2 phases to detoxifying the liver. It you don’t consider both phases you could actually cause more harm than good during the detoxification process.

Phase 1 – Oxidation

Phase 1 of detoxing the liver is the oxidation phase. That is when the liver uses oxygen and enzymes to break down all the toxins in your body. However, during Phase 1 some chemical compounds become even more toxic when they are broken down. That is why it is essential to follow up with Phase 2- the conjugation phase.

Phase 2 – Conjugation

Phase 2 is where all the oxidized chemicals are combined with sulfur, amino and organic acids and released through the bile. Conjugation supports the liver and kidneys in excreting all those harmful toxins.

Getting the Most Out of Each Phase

Life style choices have a huge impact on the levels of toxins that accumulate in our bodies. In phase 1- smoking, high alcohol intake, some medications and consuming vegetable oils, char-broiled meats and BHT overtax the liver. Whereas, eating cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli and Brussels sprouts as well as oranges, tangerines, caraway and dill seeds help the liver during Phase 1. And, Zinc is an essential mineral during this phase. In fact, a zinc deficiency can actually lead to cancer producing cell generation.

The most important amino acids for Phase Two detoxification are cysteine and methionine and are best found in meat, fish, poultry, eggs and dairy products.  Vegetarian sources of cysteine and methionine include nuts, seeds and beans.

Bioflavonoids are also beneficial for stimulating Phase Two enzymes during the Detox process. They can be found in fruit and vegetables such as peppers, carrots, celery, as well as specific herbs such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, peppermint, milk thistle and olive oil and tea. Milk Thistle is an herb that supports healthy liver function.

Lifestyle and dietary habits can help reduce toxins accumulating in our bodies to begin with and also help during the detoxification process as well.