By Itoro Oladokun
03 April 2025 |
9:05 pm
Considering Nigerian routine lifestyle, where processed foods, environmental pollution, and stress are part of daily life, the body often bears the brunt of toxin buildup. High pesticide use in agriculture and the increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods contribute to an overload of artificial preservatives, additives, and trans fats in the diet. While the liver and…
Considering Nigerian routine lifestyle, where processed foods, environmental pollution, and stress are part of daily life, the body often bears the brunt of toxin buildup.
High pesticide use in agriculture and the increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods contribute to an overload of artificial preservatives, additives, and trans fats in the diet.
While the liver and kidneys do their parts by naturally detoxifying the system, excessive toxins can overwhelm them, leading to noticeable signs that call for intervention. Studies have linked prolonged toxin exposure to chronic fatigue, hormonal imbalances, and weakened immune response.
You must recognise when your body needs some detox so as to tackle them early and take proactive steps to improve overall well-being. See the signs your body needs a detox.
Persistent Fatigue
Feeling constantly tired, sluggish, or mentally drained despite adequate sleep may indicate toxin overload. When the liver struggles to process accumulated toxins, energy levels drop and this leaves the body exhausted.
Frequent Headaches
Regular headaches without a clear cause may signal the presence of heavy metals or chemical exposure. Nigerians living in urban areas with high air pollution. The air is most times polluted with carbo dioxides, nitrogen dioxide, acid rain and improper refuse dump which leaves the air polluted and excessive processed foods may leave one more susceptible to frequent headaches. When you experience frequent headaches, it’s time to detox.
Digestive Issues
Bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and excessive gas could point to poor gut health and toxin buildup. Traditional Nigerian diets, rich in fried foods, processed meats, and artificial sweeteners, can slow digestion and cause these discomforts.
Skin Breakouts and Irritations
Acne, rashes, eczema, ringworms, or dull skin are common indicators that toxins are accumulating in the body. The skin, a major detox organ, often reveals internal imbalances. So when next you go eyeing celebrity skin, know that they are constantly detoxifying themselves to look clean, ageless and fresh always.
Unexplained Weight Gain
If weight gain persists despite regular exercise and a healthy diet, toxins stored in fat cells may be disrupting metabolism. Processed and sugary foods common in Nigerian diets can exacerbate this issue.
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Bad Breath and Body Odour
A persistent unpleasant mouth or body odour, even with proper hygiene, may suggest toxin overload. Poor digestion and a sluggish liver can lead to foul-smelling breath and sweat. Detoxify now.
Weight loss
Stress is one of the things that drains a person faster than a parasite sucking out the life of any bug. Most working conditions and demanding job roles sometimes lead to stress. When you experience that you are constantly losing weight even after taking foods to gain weight, then you may need to consioder your level of stress and detoxify by resting or changing job role.
Weakened Immunity
Frequent colds, infections, or slow wound healing signal a struggling immune system. Excess toxins can impair immune function, making the body more vulnerable to illnesses.
How to Start a Natural Detox
Increase Hydration
Drinking enough water flushes out toxins effectively. Nigerians can opt for local detox drinks like warm lemon water in the morning or zobo (hibiscus tea) without excess sugar. Avoid water you do not know how hygiene condition during processing and packaging.
Prioritise Whole Foods
Reduce processed foods, fried meals, and sugary snacks. Instead, focus on fibre-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, beans, and whole grains. Incorporating Nigerian staples such as unripe plantain, garden eggs, scent leaf, and bitter leaf can enhance detoxification.
Support Liver Health
The liver plays a key role in detoxification. Consuming foods like garlic, ginger, turmeric, and cruciferous vegetables (e.g., cabbage and ugwu) can boost liver function.
Sweat It Out
Exercise and regular physical activity encourage sweating, which helps eliminate toxins. Lagos residents can consider brisk morning walks, yoga, or even local dance workouts.
Get Enough Sleep
Detoxification occurs during sleep, allowing the body to repair and remove waste products. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality rest to optimise this process. This may sound alien, espcially for people in the communication industry, who needs to keep the world abreast of latest happenings. However, it’s equally important to detoxify so as to avoid break down.
Reduce Alcohol and Caffeine
Excessive alcohol and caffeinated drinks like energy drinks stress the liver. Moderation is key, and replacing them with herbal teas or coconut water can support detox efforts.
Try Intermittent Fasting
Giving the digestive system a break by fasting for a few hours can enhance toxin elimination. Nigerians observing religious fasts can align their detox efforts with these practices.
A body burdened with toxins can affect productivity, mood, and overall health. Recognising early signs and making lifestyle adjustments can restore balance and vitality.
