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Good News: Detoxing Isn’t What You Think It Is 

  • Writer: Dr. Susan Monias
    Dr. Susan Monias
  • Apr 26
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jul 7


The word “detoxing” is pretty familiar these days. Unfortunately, ads for juice cleanses, gummies, or time-limited “reset” programs often obscure the definition and purpose of detoxing.


But healthy, safe, and meaningful detoxing isn’t drinking tea or fasting for a weekend. It’s about repairing and supporting your body's natural ability to eliminate toxins on a daily basis.


Keep reading, we’re about to debunk common detox myths with two facts. You’ll learn what detoxing really is, how to start, and what to expect along the way.



It’s personal–literally


The process and benefits of detoxing are unique. Individual factors, such as diet, environment, genes, current health status, and the results of your Functional Blood Chemical Analysis (FBCA), all impact the “why,” “how,” and “wow, I feel good.”FBCA is an ordinary blood draw to gain extraordinary information about your body.


The results identify patterns in your blood that reveal underlying system dysfunction, helping to pinpoint the source of persistent inflammation, pain, or illness.While the first step to a functional, sustainable detox is the FBCA, separating myth from fact is equally important to your health journey. 



Myths vs. reality


🧴 MYTH: Detoxing is just drinking a special tea or taking supplements.

✅ REALITY: True detoxing is a long-term process of reducing toxin exposure and supporting your body’s ability to eliminate them.


🥤 MYTH: A three-day cleanse will “flush out” toxins.

✅ REALITY: Your body detoxes every day. Short cleanses won’t do much unless you make lasting changes.


💊 MYTH: Detoxing is only about diet.

✅ REALITY: Detoxing is about everything you expose your body to—food, water, skincare products, air, and household items.



What is detoxing, and how do I know if I need to do it?


Your body already detoxes naturally. Your liver, kidneys, skin, and lymphatic system constantly work to remove toxins. However, if you take in more toxins than your body can handle, they build up. That’s when symptoms appear—fatigue, inflammation, skin issues, brain fog, and more.


Think of your body like a bucket. Every day, toxins drip into your bucket from food, air, personal care products, and even stress. When the bucket overflows, symptoms start. Detoxing is about emptying that bucket and keeping it from filling too quickly.



How does detoxing work?


It’s simple: 

  1. Help your body remove stored toxins – Open up your detox pathways so toxins can leave through sweat, urine, and digestion.

  2. Stop adding more – Reduce exposure by choosing clean, whole foods, filtered water, and natural products.


When your detox pathways are blocked, toxins have nowhere to go. That’s why some people feel worse when they try to detox—they’re stirring up toxins without a way to get them out. The key is to open those pathways first.



Small changes are good changes


You don’t have to overhaul your life overnight. Start with small changes:


🥗 Eat clean foods – Reduce processed foods and opt for organic options whenever possible.           

💧Drink filtered water – Tap water can contain chemicals that add to your toxin load.

🧴Check your personal care products – Shampoos, lotions, and makeup can contain harmful ingredients. Switch to cleaner options.

🫠 Sweat regularly – Exercise and saunas help release toxins through your skin.

🥦 Support digestion – A healthy gut helps eliminate toxins. Eat fiber-rich foods and consider probiotics.



Common Detox Questions


❓Do I have to change my diet completely?

💡 Not necessarily. Small changes make a big difference. Start by eating less processed foods and more fresh, whole foods.


❓How long does detoxing take?

💡 It depends. If your “bucket” is full, it may take longer to see results. Some people feel better in weeks, while others need months of consistent changes.


❓What side effects should I expect?

💡Some people experience fatigue, headaches, or digestive changes at first. These are signs of toxins leaving your body. If symptoms are severe, slow down and support your detox pathways.


❓Is detoxing safe for everyone?

💡Yes, when done correctly. However, if you’re pregnant or managing a health condition, talk to a healthcare provider before starting.



What’s Next?


First, we invite you to spend a few minutes reviewing our Detox FAQs


Second, a reminder that detoxing is about forming long-term habits, not relying on quick fixes. 


Finally, start small, listen to your body, and adjust your plan as needed to fit your lifestyle and reach your health goals. 


It's time to get better--you've suffered enough. Get informed and take control of your immune health. Everything is 100% virtual, so there's hope wherever you live. To request a consult, call me at 470-290-8025 or email office@drsusanmonias.com.




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