The RIGHT Way to Detox: Naturopath's Top Supplements for Fertility, Acne, & More
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Ivy Branin Naturopathic Doctor at Simplicity Health Associates.
Table Of Contents:
Share this blog post!
As a naturopathic doctor and expert in women's health and hormones, I often discuss detoxification. Today, I want to shed light on what a truly effective and comprehensive detoxification program looks like, and share the key supplements I recommend to my patients.
Whether you're looking to do a spring cleanse, prepare your body for conception (I often recommend this type of detoxification 3 to 4 months before trying to get pregnant), clear up stubborn acne, or simply feel less "toxic" and sluggish, these supplements are foundational to a comprehensive detoxification protocol.
Every supplement I'll be recommending today can be easily purchased through Fullscript. If this is your first time ordering from Fullscript through us, you'll receive 10% off your first supplement order!
Understanding Detoxification
True detoxification is not about extreme measures or deprivation. It's about supporting your body's innate and incredibly sophisticated systems – primarily your liver, kidneys, and digestive tract – to efficiently process and eliminate toxins. These toxins can come from various sources: environmental pollutants, processed foods, medications, and even the normal byproducts of metabolism, including hormones. When these systems are overloaded or not functioning optimally, toxins can build up, contributing to a range of symptoms from fatigue and skin issues to hormonal imbalances and even impacting fertility.
My approach to detoxification is comprehensive, involving strategic supplementation alongside vital dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
Supplements for Detoxification
Here are the essential supplements I integrate into a comprehensive detoxification protocol:
MediClear Plus by Thorne
This is a comprehensive, multi-nutrient protein powder designed to support all phases of detoxification.
MediClear Plus provides the key elements needed to kickstart and sustain detoxification pathways in the liver and kidneys, while also supporting healthy digestion. It contains a blend of liver-supportive nutrients, antioxidants like green tea and curcumin, alpha-lipoic acid, and various components derived from broccoli (like sulforaphane glucosinolate) known for their potent detox-enhancing properties. It also includes protein, which is vital during detoxification to support liver function and maintain muscle mass.
When utilizing MediClear Plus, I guide my patients through a very specific, typically 3-week program. This involves gradually introducing the powder alongside the elimination of common food allergens or foods frequently linked to sensitivities, such as animal dairy, eggs, gluten, sugar, caffeine, soy, and corn.
Liver-GI Detox by Pure Encapsulations
This is a targeted herbal and nutrient supplement specifically designed to support both liver and gastrointestinal (GI) detoxification pathways.
This formula contains powerful "heavy hitters" for detoxification, including Milk Thistle, Artichoke, and Turmeric – all renowned for their liver-protective and bile-flow enhancing properties. Importantly, it also provides Alpha-Lipoic Acid and N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC), both of which are precursors to glutathione, the body's master antioxidant. This blend offers robust support for both the liver's detoxification processes and the digestive tract, ensuring toxins are efficiently processed and eliminated.
Ther-Biotic® Complete by Klaire Labs
This is a high-potency, multi-strain probiotic formula.
Our digestive system (GI tract) plays a critical role in detoxification. We must ensure we are having regular, active bowel movements, primarily to prevent toxins from being reabsorbed and recycled back into the body. A healthy gut microbiome, supported by a comprehensive probiotic like Ther-Biotic® Complete, is essential for optimal digestion, efficient waste elimination, and processing certain toxins. This, in turn, has a profound impact on hormonal balance and overall reproductive health.
MetaFiber by Metagenics
This supplement is a blend of dietary fibers.
Fiber is paramount for detoxification, even if you typically have optimal digestion. It acts like a broom, binding to toxins and hormones in the digestive tract and facilitating their excretion through bowel movements.
If you're someone experiencing less than one bowel movement a day, adding this on is non-negotiable during a detox protocol to ensure consistent elimination and prevent toxin recirculation.
ProOmega 2000-D by Nordic Naturals
A high-quality Omega-3 fish oil supplement, enhanced with Vitamin D.
While not directly a "detoxifying" nutrient, Omega-3s are critical for maintaining and rebuilding healthy cell membranes throughout the body. During detoxification, cells are constantly processing and rebuilding, so supporting their structural integrity with healthy fats is vital.
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Omega-3s can help reduce systemic inflammation that often accompanies a toxic burden. The inclusion of Vitamin D, a common deficiency, further supports immune function and overall health during this process.
If you are interested in learning more about a naturopath-approved diet, consider reading our Recipe Blog posts.
Recommended Dosage & Timing for Your Detox Protocol
To get the most out of this comprehensive detoxification protocol, here are the specific recommendations for each supplement:
MediClear Plus (Thorne):
Dosage: 1 scoop
Timing: Morning and Evening
Duration: Ongoing (as part of the comprehensive protocol)
Additional Notes: Mix with 8 ounces of cold liquid as part of your morning and evening meal. For the first week, take 1 scoop twice a day, then increase to 2 scoops twice a day for the next 2 weeks.
Liver-GI Detox (Pure Encapsulations):
Dosage: 1 capsule
Timing: Upon waking and at bedtime
Duration: Ongoing (as part of the comprehensive protocol)
Additional Notes: Take with meals.
Ther-Biotic® Complete (Klaire Labs):
Dosage: 1 capsule
Timing: Once per day
Duration: Ongoing
MetaFiber (Metagenics):
Dosage: 1/2 level scoop
Timing: Upon waking and at bedtime
Duration: For 3 weeks (specifically during the active detox phase)
Additional Notes: For the first week, take 1/2 scoop twice a day, then increase to 1 scoop twice a day for the next 2 weeks.
ProOmega 2000-D (Nordic Naturals):
Dosage: 2 softgels
Timing: Once per day
Duration: Ongoing
Comprehensive Detoxification Protocol
For the best results, it is recommended to follow a whole foods organic diet free of animal dairy, gluten, eggs, soy, sugar, caffeine, and corn during this protocol.
Typically, I recommend following this comprehensive detoxification protocol for a minimum of 3 weeks. This period strictly includes the elimination of the specific foods mentioned above.
*Important Note for Fertility: If you are trying to conceive, it is absolutely essential to undertake this detoxification protocol at least 3 to 4 months prior to actively trying to get pregnant. This allows your body sufficient time to clear toxins and optimize health before conception.
If you are interested in learning more about the naturopathic approach to fertility, consider reading my blog post on the Fertility Diet, as well as my blog post on how to Improve Sperm Quality & Count Naturally.
Accessing These Professional-Grade Supplements
For convenient and reliable access to these specific supplements and other high-quality products, I recommend using Fullscript. Fullscript is my trusted online dispensary, partnering directly with healthcare practitioners to provide patients with authentic, professional-grade supplements. You can easily find these recommended products on my ready-made Fullscript protocols, and by setting up your account through our link, you'll receive 10% off your first order, as well as free shipping over $50.
Personalized Naturopathic Support
Undertaking a detoxification program, especially one that addresses specific health concerns like fertility or acne, can be incredibly beneficial. If you're seeking a holistic and individualized approach to detoxification and overall wellness, we're here to help. At Simplicity Health Associates, both myself, Dr. Ivy Branin, and Dr. Pauline Hoang, are passionate about empowering patients through comprehensive naturopathic care. We can work with you to understand your unique health picture, offer tailored dietary and lifestyle advice, and guide you through a detoxification process that best suits your needs and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "right way to detox" according to a Naturopathic Doctor?
The "right way" involves supporting the body's natural detoxification organs (liver, kidneys, digestive tract) with targeted nutrients and herbs, combined with eliminating dietary and environmental stressors. It's a gentle, supportive process, not a harsh cleanse or fast.
Why is detoxification important for fertility?
Optimizing detoxification before conception helps to reduce the body's toxic burden. This can improve egg and sperm quality, support healthy hormonal balance, and create a cleaner internal environment for a developing fetus, reducing potential exposures to harmful substances.
How can detoxification help with acne?
Acne is often linked to hormonal imbalances and inflammation, both of which can be exacerbated by a sluggish detoxification system. By supporting the liver's ability to process hormones and eliminating toxins through the gut, detoxification can reduce the internal burden contributing to skin issues.
Is it okay to do a detox if I'm already pregnant or breastfeeding?
Generally, no. Active detoxification (especially comprehensive protocols involving elimination diets) is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as toxins can be released and potentially passed to the baby. Please consult with a naturopathic provider for safe practices during these times.
What kind of foods should be avoided during a detoxification program?
Common food allergens and sensitivities often eliminated include animal dairy, eggs, gluten, refined sugar, caffeine, soy, and corn.
Why is fiber so important during detoxification?
Fiber acts as a binding agent in the digestive tract, attaching to toxins, eliminating hormones and ensuring they are safely excreted through bowel movements. Without sufficient fiber, these substances can be reabsorbed, undoing the detoxifying work of the liver.
Book An Appointment
If you're concerned about remaining healthy, or may suspect that there is an underlying health concern, our team at Simplicity Health Associates are dedicated to helping you navigate this journey through personalized, holistic treatment plans.
About Dr Ivy Branin
Dr Ivy Branin is a Naturopathic Doctor in NYC who received her degree in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biochemical engineering and a minor in French from Rutgers University. After graduating from Rutgers, she worked for 3 years as a process validation engineer in the pharmaceutical industry in New York and Connecticut.
As a naturopathic doctor in NYC, Dr Branin does not approach disease with a “one-size fits all” perspective but rather sees each patient as an individual with their own potential for optimal health. She supports people in their desire to feel good and good about themselves using the naturopathic principles of dietary and lifestyle management, homeopathy, visceral manipulation, botanical medicine, and craniosacral therapy.