Detoxification

Detoxification — is a natural biochemical process through which the body neutralizes and eliminates toxins, hormonal metabolites, breakdown products, medications, and chemical compounds.

The main work is done by the liver, kidneys, and intestines. For these systems to function properly, the body needs proteins, amino acids, fats, and choline — key substances without which detoxification is impossible.

What is detox

Detoxification — is not about diets or restrictions, but a complex enzymatic system. It includes three phases: transformation of toxins, their binding to protective molecules, and elimination through bile or kidneys.

These processes require amino acids, phospholipids, choline, minerals, and B vitamins. Greens and vegetables play only a supportive role, while the foundation of detoxification consists of the proper intake of proteins and fats.

Why detox is important

The liver faces a daily load from metabolic products, hormones, medications, food additives, and environmental toxins.

If detoxification is impaired, active metabolites accumulate in the body, inflammatory processes intensify, hormonal imbalance occurs, and the quality of skin, sleep, and energy deteriorates.

How detox works in the body

Detox occurs in three stages, each requiring specific nutrients.

Phase i — breakdown of toxins. Involves enzymes of the cyp450 system, forming active intermediate compounds that are often more toxic than the originals.

This phase requires vitamins B2, B3, B6, iron, and amino acids.

Phase ii — detoxification. Binding of metabolites with glutathione, sulfur, amino acids, and choline.

This stage critically depends on cysteine, glycine, methionine, and taurine. It is impossible without choline and methyl donors (B9, B12).

Phase iii — elimination. Elimination through bile is the main route, but some metabolites are excreted through the kidneys.

For bile secretion, fats, phospholipids, and cholesterol are necessary.

Symptoms of overloaded detoxification:

• fatigue and decreased performance;
• sensitivity to smells and alcohol;
• headaches;
• digestive disorders;
• skin rashes;
• feeling of heaviness after fatty foods — a sign of bile stagnation;
• irritability and mood swings.

Effective methods

Real support for detoxification — is nutrition that supplies the body with necessary nutrients, not harsh cleansing practices.

Proteins:

• provide amino acids for phases i and ii;
• are needed for glutathione synthesis.

Includes: eggs, meat, fish, seafood.

Fats:

• are the basis for bile and transport of toxins;
• include omega-3, saturated fats, cholesterol.

Sources: eggs, fish, butter, and coconut oil, avocado.

Choline:

• key nutrient for detox;
• involved in methylation and bile formation;

Sources: eggs, liver, meat, fish.

Minerals and vitamins:

• magnesium — for energy metabolism;
• zinc — for liver tissue regeneration;
• selenium — component of antioxidant defense enzymes;
• B-group — for enzymes of phases i–ii;
• vitamin E — protection from oxidative metabolites.

Additional support:

• moderate amount of fiber for peristalsis;
• green vegetables for antioxidants;
• sufficient water for kidney function;
• physical activity and deep breathing for lymph.

Errors and dangerous practices:

• juice fasts — reduce protein and detox stops;
• aggressive laxatives — disrupt electrolytes;
• low-fat diets — cause bile stagnation;
• detox smoothies without protein and fats — do not work;
• cleanses without choline — worsen liver function.

Products that support detox:

• eggs — the main natural source of choline;
• liver — vitamins B12, B9, C, choline;
• fish and seafood — Omega-3, selenium;
• beef and turkey — amino acids for detox;
• coconut oil and butter — support for bile secretion;
• cruciferous vegetables — additional support for phases;
• fermented products — improve intestinal function.

Nutrients for the liver:

• choline;
• methionine, cysteine, glycine;
• B2, B3, B6, B9, B12;
• magnesium and zinc;
• selenium;
• Omega-3;
• glutathione;
• taurine.

Detox and keto diet

Keto nutrition can enhance detoxification by reducing sugar, decreasing inflammation, and normalizing hormonal metabolism. However, the transition can overload the liver if the diet is low in choline or protein.

For safe detox on keto, it is important to:

• ensure adequate protein intake;
• include eggs, liver, and fish;
• balance fats and omega-3;
• support bile secretion with fats;
• moderate amount of fiber.

Contraindications

• pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• severe liver and kidney failure;
• gallstones;
• anemia and pronounced deficiencies;
• acute infections;
• endocrine disorders — under supervision.

Conclusion

True detoxification — is the work of the liver, kidneys, and intestines, and the foundation of this process — is proteins, amino acids, fats, omega-3, and especially choline.

Vegetables and fiber are important as additional support, but not as the foundation.

A competent approach to detox helps reduce inflammation, improve metabolism, increase energy, and support liver health.