As time goes on, detoxing becomes more and more important to us as humans. In fact, given the potential effect on the brain and endocrine system, detoxing is probably the seventh pillar of transformation – but I don’t include it as such because some of us are better predisposed to being able to clear our systems than others, and most of the factors involved come under the banner of the other long-term lifestyle practices that I promote. Instead, I recommend a focused detox period every 12-14 months because long term toxicity buildup prevents bodily processes from running optimally, therefore accelerating aging and cognitive decline.
The proliferation of toxins in our environment since the chemical engineering revolution of the early 20th century has redefined the game board on which our bodies have to play – in short, we are not equipped for this toxic payload of environmental stress. We have not evolved to naturally cope with heavy metals, microplastics, pesticides, xenoestrogens, CFCs, PFAs, BPA/BPS, or any of the other nightmare acronyms which are now popping up all over the web to scare us with threats to our longevity. Viruses, mycotoxins and parasites also poison us and so including antiviral and anti-parasitic supplements during a period of detoxing should be considered.
Due to this situation, we all need to ensure our phase I & II detox pathways are functioning adequately, but anyone with an MTHFR genetic mutation hoping to avoid sub-optimal functionality also needs to understand their methylation cycle in depth. The only way to be sure that you have something of this type is to do a DNA methylation test, which are thankfully readily available and affordable nowadays. An MTHFR mutation can create a plethora of chronic symptoms related to low energy and poor brain function (think CFS or ADHD) – because it raises homocysteine levels and reduces the efficacy of our detoxification pathways. In some people (like me for example), the ability to detox without assistance is compromised by upto 70% and it has taken me quite some time to understand my needs and find a lifestyle which meets them!
In addition to ensuring those pathways are functioning (an ongoing task), we occasionally need to do a bit of internal spring cleaning. In order to excrete some of that toxic buildup we need ‘chelators‘ (which attract and encapsulate through chemical bonds) and ‘binders‘ (which absorb toxins like a sponge). This is not some kind of ‘juice cleanse’, it’s a structured protocol that targets nasties and gets them out of the way. The ingredients of a juice cleanse should be considered a part of your general diet, and the majority of benefit from such cleanses comes from the abstention from other foods as part of a temporary change of habits which would leave anyone feeling better.
Step 1: Avoid toxicity in the first place
- Filter your water
Depending on where you are in the world, the public water supply is likely laden with xenoestrogens, pesticides, treatment chemicals and heavy metals so make sure yours is filtered with either reverse osmosis and remineralisation, or a good gravity fed candle filter system, preferably one that handles fluoride. Also avoid taking too many hot baths if you don’t have a whole house filtration system installed. - Consume clean foods and drinks
Direct ingestion is the best way to poison yourself. Buy organic where possible and practical and avoid foods with any additives that don’t come from nature. This includes preservatives, artificial sweeteners, binding and filling agents – basically if the ingredients on a food product look more like a chemistry lab stocklist than a grocery list it probably is worth passing on. - Wash your vegetables and fruits
Pesticides, plastic residue from packaging, bugs and other nasties from the transportation process can be included in your fresh produce. - Avoid water from plastic bottles & processed food wrapped in plastic
These bottles and wrappers contain forever chemicals (PFAS) and microplastics which get dissolved into the water. - Avoid plastic containers and utensils
Definitely do not heat food in plastic containers as this dramatically increases the rate at which the plastic breaks down and ends up in your food. - Avoid non-stick pans
The coatings on these things are highly problematic. Use stainless steel or cast iron instead, NOT aluminium. - Use natural laundry and cleaning products
Anyone who suffers puffy eyes or itchy skin when cleaning has compromised detox pathways causing an immune reaction. Thankfully there are many brands offering safer alternatives. - Use natural ingredient-based personal care products
The worst thing you can do is put toxins directly onto your skin where they will be absorbed. - Use natural materials in clothing wherever possible
Polyester is a plastic. Linen, cotton or bamboo are much better choices. - Use respiratory protection in dirty environments
Whether you’re sanding old paint in your house renovation or commuting through the city, breathing in environmental toxins is best avoided at all times!
Step 2: Supplement these regularly for your liver
- TUDCA
Tauroursodeoxycholic acid, a bile acid derivative synthesized in the body from ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and taurine - Milk thistle
Contains silymarin, which has been shown to help regenerate liver tissue, reduce inflammation, and protect liver cells from damage - N-Acetyl Cysteine
A precursor to glutathione, reduces ALT levels, protects against fatty liver (non-alcoholic) - Vitamin C
Helps prevent and reverse damage to liver cells caused by oxidative stress
Step 2(a): Supplement these regularly for your MTHFR
- B12 Methylcobalamin
Methylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12 that is particularly beneficial for people with MTHFR mutations. It is an essential coenzyme in the homocysteine-methionine conversion process, which is often compromised in those with MTHFR mutations. - B12 Hydroxocobalamin
Hydroxocobalamin is a form of vitamin B12 that can be beneficial for individuals with MTHFR mutations. It acts as a precursor to methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin, which are the bioactive coenzyme forms of vitamin B12 necessary for various bodily functions including DNA synthesis, growth, and development. - B9 L-5-MTHF Methyltetrahydrafolate
Individuals with the 677TT variant of the MTHFR gene are predisposed to mild hyperhomocysteinemia. They have less active MTHFR available to produce 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, which elevates homocysteine levels causing fatigue and and sowing the seeds for numerous chronic degenerative illnesses - B6 Pyroxidine 5 Phosphate
Supplementation with P5P is generally considered safe and effective for individuals with MTHFR gene variations, as it bypasses the need for conversion from synthetic forms of B6, which may be impaired in these individuals
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11173557/ - B3 Niacinamide
Niacinamide can be a safe alternative to other forms of vitamin B3, as it is less likely to cause adverse reactions in those with MTHFR mutations - Phosphatydlserine
Supports HPA axis function which is compromised in those with MTHFR mutations.
https://examine.com/supplements/phosphatidylserine
NOTE: This is not an exhaustive list, and your needs will depend on your unique genetics. However, it is a very good place to start and can reduce or absolve numerous symptoms for most people. Other genes to consider when looking at understanding more deeply your energy and focus problems are COMT and VDR-taq; so it’s important that you get a report that analyses your DNA to reveal your needs specifically.
Step 3(a): Do a focused period of detox
Every year or two, I set aside 30 days at a time to take an extra stack of substances to expedite this process of cleaning my body out as best as I can. Everything comes in powder form other than the fresh coriander, and it gets pre-mixed. Then I just spoon it out, give it a quick blend and wash down with some water. Considering that the rest of my lifestyle is already optimised, taking this twice a day is all that I need to do. As a matter of habit I already exercise, follow the guidelines in step 1, take the supplements in step 2, and fast intermittently to give my body a chance to regulate itself. The heavy metals are a particular problem because they bond chemically to cells in ways that other toxins do not, and therefore I have included numerous approaches to their removal.
- The best time time to take the chelators is first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach. We want these to get into the body and start to do their work for the day before anything else gets a chance to interfere.
- The best times to take the binders are both before bed, at least 2-3 hours after you have eaten, and just after exercise, as the act of moving around will shake toxins free from cells to an extent. It is important that we don’t take binders on a full stomach as they will just bind to the food.
- For a while rebounders (mini trampolines) were promoted for this purpose, but that’s a waste of money – just put on your favourite music and bounce about for 20 minutes to get the same effect, or go for a jog. That 20 minutes of daily exercise should be a non-negotiable for everyone anyway.
- Also drink more electrolyte water and use a sauna as much as possible during this time, as sweating is a further avenue for the expulsion of waste.
Chelators
- Sodium Alginate
This is particularly good for the removal of heavy metals, and can even be taken long term as part of a comprehensive supplement protocol to prevent toxic buildup. It’s one of the key ingredients that makes miso soup so healthy.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9603258/ - Chlorella
Chlorella’s effectiveness as a chelator has been observed in studies where it was administered alongside diets containing cadmium, showing a reduction in oxidative stress markers. Additionally, chlorella’s polysaccharides have been noted for their potential to adsorb heavy metals, similar to other natural polymers like alginate.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3654245/ - Fresh Coriander/Cilantro
Has been shown to unbind toxins such as heavy metals, works well as an adjunct to other substances in this protocol.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8588955/ - Spirulina
Research has shown that Spirulina can protect against neurotoxicity caused by heavy metals by increasing antioxidant enzymes and inhibiting lipid peroxidation activity. It can also form complexes with metal ions, which makes them easier to transport out of the body.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10707235/
Binders
- Modified Citrus Pectin
Modified citrus pectin (MCP) is a type of binder that can help with detoxification by binding to and facilitating the excretion of heavy metals and mycotoxins from the body without altering the retention of other nutritional minerals.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16835878/ - Activated Charcoal
Does not absorb into the body but as it travels through the digestive system, it’s helps to absorb trapped painful gases, microscopic bits of rotting food, ‘bad’ bugs, parasites and any other detritus that may be lying around. Think of it as a digestive tract detox.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482294/ - Bentonite clay
When consumed orally, bentonite clay can help detoxify the kidneys and liver by binding to negatively charged toxins and removing them from the body. It has also been shown to absorb aflatoxins, a dangerous mould-like compound that can be found in foods like mouldy nuts and contaminated cooking oil.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6989347/ - Micronised Zeolite
A natural mineral that is particularly effective due to its porous structure, which allows it to absorb heavy metals and toxins from the body.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6515299/
In terms of quantities for the chelators and binders, I urge you to do your own research into each one and adapt a mix to your specific goals. Just don’t replace this with celery juice because it doesn’t do the same job at all.
Additional detox agents
- Oregano oil
Powerful antimicrobial, rich in carvacrol and thymol which disrupt pathogen cell membranes
2-4 drops in water twice a day - Colloidal silver
A powerful antibacterial that is safe to consume for short periods of time
1 tsp of 20ppm solution daily - Raw garlic
Allicin, the active ingredient in garlic, targets bacteria and viruses effectively
2 crushed cloves twice daily
Remove fluoride from your bones
If you have lived in a fluoridated water area you may wish to detox some of that from your bones and organs. There is a contentious argument about fluoride and dental care and while I will probably never know the truth, I choose to use fluoride free toothpaste and filter the water I use because I would rather look after my own teeth than have the government decide which extra minerals go into my body. There are also the potential risks to pineal and thyroid gland function so if it’s a tradeoff between a few dental cavities and a compromised endocrine system I’ll take my chances with the dentist.
To speed up the excretion of fluoride you need to lower the pH of your urine by simply taking 1/4 tsp of Cream of Tartar in water every day.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nut.2004.01.007
Step 3(b): Go wild with the antiviral and anti-parasitic drugs
If you’re feeling really adventurous and you can obtain them, this is a great opportunity to deep-clean unwanted living organisms along with all the other toxic sludge. Here are some suggestions, but what you can get hold of will vary depending on your global location and the flexibility of the healthcare system and pharmacies there. Space them out over the 30 days to give each one a chance to do its work, and prevent an overload of detox reactions. Taking these alongside all of the binders and chelators should ensure the minimum of reactions, but you are likely to get some symptoms of one type or another and this is to be expected with an effective detox.
Days 1-7: Nitozoxinade
(A broad-spectrum anti-parasitic and antiviral medication used to treat various helminthic, protozoal, and viral infections)
Why it works: Disrupts energy metabolism in parasites and some viruses; versatile for detoxing multiple pathogens
Dose: 500mg twice daily with meals for a broad pathogen sweep
Day 8: Pirantel
(For parasitic worm infections, including ascariasis, hookworm infections, enterobiasis (pinworm), trichostrongyliasis, and trichinellosis)
Why it works: Paralyzes worms’ muscles, allowing expulsion via stool; ideal for gut parasite detox
Dose: 11mg/kg – 1g for a 90kg person
Days 10-19: Acicolvir
(Inhibits viral DNA replication and is primarily used for treating herpes simplex virus infections, chickenpox, and shingles)
Why it works: Reduces viral load; in detox, could target latent viruses contributing to inflammation
Dose: 400mg, 2 times daily
Days 15-28: Disulfiram
(This is a drug for the treatment of alcoholism but has been repurposed as an anti-parasitic and anti-cancer drug)
Why it works: Inhibits parasite enzymes (e.g., aldehyde dehydrogenase), disrupting their metabolism; off-label use in detox to clear chronic parasitic loads.
Dose: 500mg daily, AVOID ALCOHOL, stop if a metallic taste appears in the mouth
Days 20-30: Hydroxycholriquine
(inhibits parasites from utilising haemoglobin in red blood cells)
Why it works: Disrupts parasite survival in blood stages (e.g., malaria); may also have mild antiviral effects
Dose: 200mg daily, with a meal
Day 22: Pirantel
(second dose to kill off newly hatched eggs of previously killed generation)
Herxheimer (detox) reactions
If you are successful with this protocol you will not only cleanse your body to a great extent, but if all the steps are adhered to you will also avoid a reaction when certain things are forced to re-enter the bloodstream. Herxes tend to happen when something suddenly shifts toxins but without the other necessary steps in place to clear them. That is why it is important to follow this protocol in its entirety, particularly if you are going the antiviral route.
Step 4: Repopulate your gut
Having done such a deep cleanse and created a much healthier environment, now is a great time to take an intensive course of some digestive enzymes and prebiotics for another 14-21 days to help your digestive system adapt and take full advantage of the shift that has occurred. There are many options here, from fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi, to retail products containing specific combinations of digestive enzymes and oligosaccharides. Again, availability will depend on your region, and note that consuming bovine colostrum can help ensure the successful repopulation of probiotic bacteria through its action of increasing adhesion of good bacteria to the gut wall.