Signs and symptoms of toxicity

Now that we know what some of the everyday toxins are, both in our food supply and in the environment, the next question is, how do we know if we are toxic?

Over summer, our bodies can build up toxins that can eventually lead to coughs, migraines and stuffy noses. The change of seasons can be a good time to detoxify and enter the next season feeling our best. Some may opt to do a detox a few times a year to remove toxins from the body and mind, healthfully and naturally.  

Our bodies are always working to detoxify themselves, but in today’s world we can become overloaded with toxins and need to give our bodies extra help to keep them clean. Below is a list of some of the signs and symptoms that your body is experiencing toxic overload.

Signs and symptoms of toxicity

Angina pectoris	Fever	Nausea
Anorexia	Frequent colds	Nervousness
Anxiety	Headaches	Runny nose
Backaches	High blood fats	Sinus congestion
Bad breath	Hives	Skin rashes
Circulatory deficits	Immune weakness	Sleepiness
Constipation	Indigestion	Sore throat
Cough	Insomnia	Tight or stiff neck
Depression	Irritated eyes	Wheezing
Dizziness	Itchy nose
Environmental sensitivity	Joint pains
Fatigue	Mood changes

Many of these symptoms could also result from nutrient deficiencies. More common symptoms of toxicity include headaches, fatigue, mucus problems, aches and pains, digestive problems, allergy symptoms, and sensitivity to environmental agents such as certain chemicals, perfumes, and synthetics. People who experience these and other symptoms may benefit from changes to their diet or avoidance of the toxin(s) that affects them. It may be necessary to differentiate allergic symptoms from those of toxicity to determine the appropriate course of action but most detox diets avoid the most common allergens.

Many common acute and chronic illnesses may be alleviated with a program of detoxification and cleansing.  If you are overweight, have a weak immune system, are feeling sluggish or tired, having trouble sleeping, have an impaired digestive system, have skin problems, or have unexplained headaches, you may be a candidate for a full body detox.

Next week I will look at some of the myths and facts associated with detox and explain some natural ways you can detox without using commercial products.