Detoxification
Your body's cleanup crew. Detoxification is how you neutralize and eliminate toxins—from environmental chemicals to metabolic waste. The liver runs Phase I and II reactions, then the kidneys, gut, skin, and lungs excrete the products. When overwhelmed, toxins accumulate.
The Three Phases
Phase I: Activation
CYP450 enzymes. Oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis. Makes toxins reactive. Can create more toxic intermediates.
Phase II: Conjugation
Attaches molecules to toxins. Glutathione, sulfate, glucuronic acid, methyl groups. Makes water-soluble.
Phase III: Elimination
Transport out of cells. Into bile or blood. Then excreted via kidneys, gut, skin, lungs.
Phase II Pathways
Glutathione Conjugation
Most important. Neutralizes reactive species. Heavy metals, mold toxins. Glutathione is rate-limiting.
Methylation
Adds methyl groups. Estrogens, neurotransmitters, histamine. Requires B12, folate, SAMe.
Sulfation
Adds sulfate. Hormones, neurotransmitters, drugs. Requires sulfur. Often impaired.
Glucuronidation
40% of Phase II. Bilirubin, estrogens, drugs. Beta-glucuronidase can reverse it.
Acetylation
Adds acetyl groups. Histamine, drugs. Fast/slow acetylators genetically determined.
Amino Acid Conjugation
Glycine, taurine, glutamine. Bile acids, benzoic acid. Often overlooked.
Supporting Detoxification
Cruciferous Vegetables
Broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts. Induce Phase I and II. Sulforaphane especially.
Glutathione Support
NAC, glycine, glutamine precursors. Liposomal glutathione. Whey protein. Selenium.
B Vitamins
Methylation cofactors. B12, folate, B6. Riboflavin for glutathione recycling.
Sweating
Eliminates heavy metals, BPA, phthalates. Sauna, exercise. Skin is an exit route.
Fiber
Binds toxins in gut. Prevents reabsorption. 25-35g daily. Regular bowel movements essential.
Hydration
Kidneys need water. Dilute and flush. Half body weight in ounces. Clean, filtered water.