Poor Detoxing
Description
Detoxification is a critical biological process that helps remove metabolic waste, environmental toxins, hormones, and pathogens. When this system is sluggish or overwhelmed, toxins can accumulate, leading to symptoms like headaches, rashes, fatigue, and chemical sensitivity. Contributing factors may include genetic variants (like MTHFR or GST), liver congestion, nutrient deficiencies, mold or heavy metal exposure, and poor gut or bile flow. Functional medicine uses testing and protocols to support the liver’s two detox phases, enhance elimination through bowels and lymph, and restore the body's natural capacity to clear toxins safely and effectively.
Symptoms
Fatigue or sluggishness
Brain fog or poor focus
Chemical sensitivities
Skin breakouts or rashes
Hormone imbalances
Constipation or bloating
Headaches or migraines
Bad breath or body odor
Histamine intolerance
Joint pain or inflammation
Labs & Testing Options
Liver function panel (ALT, AST, GGT)
Glutathione and oxidative stress markers
MTHFR, GST, and COMT gene testing
Mycotoxin (mold) or heavy metal testing
Organic acids test (phase 1/2 detox metabolites)
Comprehensive stool test (bile flow, beta-glucuronidase)
Nutrient levels (B vitamins, zinc, selenium, magnesium)
Homocysteine and oxidative stress panels
Treatment Options
Liver support: milk thistle, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid, glutathione
Gut health and regular elimination (fiber, magnesium, probiotics)
Bioactive B vitamins (especially B12, B6, folate)
Antioxidants and mitochondrial support
Sauna, castor oil packs, dry brushing (lymphatic drainage)
Mold or heavy metal detox (binders, sweating, support pathways)
Elimination diet and toxin removal from home/personal care
Stress reduction and adrenal support (to reduce detox burden)
Feeling heavy, foggy, or inflamed? Detox isn’t a trend—it’s a system. Let’s help yours work better.