When I created theTaller Slimmer Younger Transformation program I built it around four pillars, MOVE, NOURISH, CLEANSE and CONNECT. Together these pillars make up the holistic methodology that lies at the core of my approach to wellness and fitness (you can read more about the 4 pillars inthis blog post).
During the first few weeks on the TSY Transformation Program the “Detox Flush Protocol” is a key part of the CLEANSE pillar. This systematic sequence of self-care rituals helps your body to flush toxins and can even help to clear blocked negative energy. Detoxifying our systems is important because daily life exposes us to many toxins that can build up in our systems from things like low-quality food or environmental pollutants. The body naturally removes impurities from the blood in the liver, where toxins are processed for elimination. We also eliminate toxins through our kidneys, intestines, lungs, lymphatic system, and skin. However, when these systems are stressed and compromised, impurities aren’t properly filtered and toxins can be stored in tissues and cells throughout the body. This leads to inflammation and congestion which slows your metabolism and compromises your immune system, which in turn can lead to major dis-ease. And one thing we need to do in these uncertain times is to ensure our immune system is as healthy and robust as possible - which led me to develop myFREE ImmUNITY program.
The Detox Flush Protocol combines some of my favorite things that you can do at home including dry brushing, rolling, rebounding, heat therapy, taking magnesium and activated charcoal. All of these are designed to flush toxins and get your system working efficiently. But some of the most frequent questions I get when we start to talk about the Detox Flush Protocol have to do with taking activated charcoal - why take it, how often should I take it and do I need to be careful when taking it? So if you are pondering these questions too, please read on!
WHAT IS ACTIVATED CHARCOAL?
Don’t worry, activated charcoal isn’t the stuff you use on your BBQ. Activated Charcoal tablets are usually made from coconut shells or other natural sources and it works by trapping toxins and chemicals in its millions of tiny pores through a process called adsorption. Absorption is a chemical reaction that causes elements to bind to a surface - the porous surface of activated charcoal has a negative electric charge that causes positively charged toxins to bond with it.
Healers have used activated charcoal for thousands of years due to its numerous benefits and being a wonder in the detoxification process. It’s also used by emergency medical teams who administer activated charcoal to toxic poisoning patients as an emergency measure.
WHEN DO I TAKE IT?
I find that taking charcoal during at least the first 3 weeks of the TSY Transformation program (our ‘Detox Weeks’) helps to remove unwanted toxins from your body, relieve gas and bloating. But you can take activated charcoal anytime that you feel your body needs a detox.
HOW MUCH DO I NEED and IS IT SAFE IF I AM TAKING MEDICATIONS?
In the TSY Program I recommend that you only need to take activated charcoal once a week, ideally after you’ve worked out and had a bath or sauna. But you can increase this to 3-5 times a week for the first 3 detox weeks. Remember, everyone’s system and response to dosage is different, so I always suggest that you consult with your doctor before using any new supplement. Plus make sure to follow dosage instructions of the brand of Activated Charcoal that you buy and tune in to your body. My method is all about getting to know and get in turn with your own body, so pay attention to how you feel - if it’s too much you will know as constipation is a potential side effect of too much activated charcoal. Listen to your body.
Hospitals recommend that activated charcoal should be taken at least 2 hours apart from medication, as activated charcoal can neutralize medication when taken together. So you might want to take activated charcoal at the opposite end of the day from when you take your medication. Again please check with your doctor if charcoal can interfere with other medications or any health issues. But in general activated charcoal has been found to be safe for all ages. Start slow as activated charcoal is a binder and excessive use (initially) may lead to constipation.
And finally, another important element of the Detox Flush Protocol - which is actually vital atany time - is to stay hydrated, especially if you are taking activated charcoal tablets.