Sauna Detox Guide 2024
SAFE HEAVY METAL & TOXIN REMOVAL STRATEGIES
As The Detox Doc ND, I am a sauna enthusiast , especially in our modern world filled with so many toxins. However, it's essential to understand the nuances before embarking on sauna therapy. Saunas are incredibly effective in eliminating heavy metals and chemical toxicants (such as plasticizers, dioxins, PCBs, flame retardants, BPA, and pesticides), as well as in mobilizing and detoxifying mold. Yet, they can also deplete crucial minerals and electrolytes like sodium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, copper, and iron, which are vital for numerous bodily functions.
Sauna therapy is a potent detox method that can significantly reduce toxin load. Nevertheless, it can sometimes lead to an excessive amount of circulating toxins. For those with genetic detoxification issues, a decrease in available antioxidants and nutrients can cause damage and reabsorption of harmful toxins. So, how can we safeguard our cells?
Six tips to enhance your sauna detox experience:
Binders: Consume a binder 45-60 minutes before your sauna sessions to help bind to toxins mobilized into the gut during the session. They attach to toxic metals, chemicals, biotoxins, and more, safely shuttling them out and preventing reabsorption and recirculation. Binders ease the stress on our elimination and detox organs, thereby preventing inflammatory reactions and uncomfortable detox symptoms.
Antioxidants: Glutathione, one of the most potent antioxidants, prevents cell damage. It is known to bind to heavy metals like mercury and arsenic and supports both phases of liver detoxification. Taking cofactors that enhance this process, such as selenium (an antioxidant) and NAD+, is crucial. These assist in recycling and producing glutathione in the body, which is often depleted by high toxic loads, chronic infections, and free radicals.
Stimulation: Lymphatic stimulation before, during, and after sauna sessions can improve circulation, boost the immune system, and assist with fluid balance and toxin elimination. I personally practice lymphatic dry brushing towards the heart at least twice during my sauna sessions. To stimulate the liver, I apply castor oil topically over the liver area before entering the sauna, enhancing the oil's penetration to nourish, stimulate, and protect this vital detox organ.
Sauna Detox vs. Cardiovascular Health: The approach to sauna detox differs significantly from using a sauna for cardiovascular benefits. It involves maintaining a rested state and carefully managing heart rate elevation to maximize detoxification. This means using lower temperatures (100-140°F) for longer durations (15-60 minutes), depending on heat tolerance and toxicity levels, and starting slowly with shorter durations and moderate temperatures to gradually adjust.
Rehydration: Sauna sessions deplete important trace minerals and electrolytes. I make it a point to rehydrate with 24-32 oz of filtered water mixed with 2 tsp of salt, a few drops of shilajit, and the juice of half a lemon. I also take potassium/magnesium taurate and trace mineral supplements to help prevent reabsorption and binding of heavy metals in the body.
Post-Sauna Care: It's crucial to remove sweat with a towel or shower as soon as possible to prevent the reabsorption of toxic sweat back into the body.
Explore my recommended sauna detox enhancement supplements for additional support.
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