DEMYSTIFYING
DETOXIFICATION FOR PATIENTS

The word "detoxification" can trigger countless negative responses from patients, and healthcare practitioners often need to help clarify what it actually means in order to boost their patient compliance. Once patients understand their bodies are naturally designed to detoxify, as this process occurs every single day without them even thinking about it, they’re more likely to embark on a recommended detoxification program.

A built-in garbage disposal, detoxification is the cleaning system that enables us to discard foreign, unwanted, non-nutritive or chemical substances, referred to sometimes as "xenobiotics" or foreign particles, from the body.

With toxin buildup associated with a number of chronic health issues, we not only need to to help them understand their natural detoxification ability, we need to help them maximize it. The detoxification process happens, basically, in two phases called phase I and phase II, with the combined purpose of converting the fat-soluble toxins into water-soluble compounds that can then be excreted by the body. In phase I, a set of enzymes called cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) are responsible for the oxidative metabolism of the toxins. These enzymes, of which 57 have been identified, transform the toxins into a water-soluble form that can then be metabolized by the phase II enzymes, and ultimately excreted. CYPs, located in the liver and the intestines, are non-specific and recognize countless toxins. They are responsible for the majority of phase I drug metabolism reactions, which is why they are so well- researched. Several other enzymes, including flavin monooxygenases (FMOs), alcohol and aldehyde dehydrogenases, and monoamine oxidases (MAOs), also contribute to phase I detoxification when faced with nicotine, alcohol and antidepressant drugs, respectively. In phase II reactions, the toxins are conjugated into water-soluble substances, which increases their solubility and enhances secretion.

Ideally, phase I and phase II enzymatic processes are functioning optimally, and we are successful in eliminating these unwanted substances. Nutrient deficiencies, however, can make detoxification difficult because vitamins and minerals act as cofactors in the enzymatic pathways of phase I and phase II. In one study, the detoxification of a common toxin, bisphenol A, was found to be dependent on retinoids (natural derivatives and synthetic analogs of vitamin A). The enzymatic activity necessary to eliminate BPA required retinoid stores in the liver, and the extent of the damage from BPA toxicity was affected by retinoid administration and liver stores of vitamin A.

Our bodies have natural intelligence, and can handle the occasional xenobiotic entering the body, but when much of what we eat, drink and breathe is laced with non-nutritive substances, our bodies need additional nutritional support to bolster our natural detoxification pathways.

A safe detoxification program enhances the body’s natural ability of clearing toxins by supporting liver function and providing the proper macro- and micronutrients to support the pathways. It must be replete with micronutrients such as B-vitamins, trace elements, and antioxidants to enhance liver function, and also macronutrients such as proteins and healthy fats to convert fat and carbohydrate to energy while maintaining muscle tissue. In addition, it should provide patients with clear guidance about what foods and beverages should be avoided during the detoxification program.

Biotics Research offers NutriClear® Plus 15-day Metabolic Cleanse Program in both pea and collagen protein bases. By supplying key nutrients in a delicious- tasting powder, NutriClear® Plus provides the ideal nutritional foundation for those in need of metabolic clearing, while also supporting hepatic function, energy production and intestinal balance. The formula includes clean protein, medium chain triglycerides, added fiber and an extensive array of antioxidants. This powerful combination of micronutrients, NitroGreens®, fiber, fruit and vegetable extracts supports safe and effective detoxification.

For more information on NutriClear® Plus visit the Biotics Research® website at www.bioticsresearch.com/nutriclearplus

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.