With the new year upon us, social media feeds are brimming with “new year, new you” messaging and a barrage of dieting and detox programs promising health and weight loss benefits. But how many of these programs truly deliver on their promises?
Michelle Gray, pharmacist and owner of Gray’s Compounding Pharmacy, advises caution when considering such programs. “A good rule of thumb is to avoid any program promising results without lifestyle changes or those focusing exclusively on weight loss,” she says. “Most detox products are really just designed to make you ‘clear out’ your guts. While it’s important for your body to expel waste effectively, bowel movements alone won’t solve all your problems.
Instead, Gray suggests focusing on measurable, sustainable changes to diet, exercise and lifestyle. Simple steps, like committing to 15 minutes of movement a day, drinking more water and eating whole foods, can have a lasting impact. “Health and weight aren’t something you can change overnight or even in 30 days,” Gray explains. “But small changes to daily habits can help you live a healthier life and eventually reach your wellness goals.”
That said, Gray acknowledges that some detox programs can be beneficial when approached with realistic expectations. “We offer a proven metabolic detoxification program that, when followed carefully, can reduce toxicity levels in the body caused by everyday environmental exposure,” she says. “The Clear Change program is a 10 or 28-day reset requiring individuals to eat cleanly, stay hydrated and use the recommended supportive supplements and understand that health and wellness rely on whole foods, exercise and hydration.”
For those considering programs like ’Clear Change’, Gray stresses the importance of nutritional support. Ensuring your body receives adequate levels of zinc, amino acids and vitamins A, C, E and B-complex through diet and supplements is crucial to supporting its natural detoxification processes.
“When choosing a detox program, focus on those designed to support the liver’s phase 1 and 2 detoxification systems which enables the liver to transform the fat soluble toxins to water soluble, so that the kidneys can excrete the toxins out in urine. The non-inflammatory diet is designed to ensure your body gets a rest, releases unwanted toxins and is in an alkaline state to ensure the toxins are excreted and not reactivated.
“That’s why I recommend the - the Clear Change Program. It enhances the body’s existing detox systems by providing the liver with a ‘boost’ to cleanse more effectively.”
Gray also suggests enlisting a spouse, loved one or friend to tackle lifestyle changes together. “It’s easier to stick to new routines and build healthy habits when someone helps you stay accountable,” she says, adding that timing is also key - “If you have upcoming events or celebrations, it might be better to wait until after those to implement new routines.”
Even small changes can have a significant impact on overall health, Gray adds. “Celebrate the little wins and avoid trying to overhaul your entire lifestyle in a single month.”
Want to supercharge your body? Add on phototherapy wearable technology to help activate your body’s innate healing systems. Ask the pharmacy team for more information.
Throughout January, Gray’s Compounding Pharmacy is offering complimentary assessments and body composition testing before and after the Clear Change program for the first eight participants. Interested participants must book an appointment. The pharmacy team can also provide dietary and nutritional recommendations to support the program and offer guidance on next steps for improving overall wellness.
Visit Gray’s Compounding Pharmacy at 417B 304th St. on Highway 95, Kimberley (on the strip in Marysville), Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Get in touch at 250-427-0038 or at facebook.com/grayspharmacy. Free shipping is available in the B.C. for your compounds, along with free weekly prescription delivery to Cranbrook and Kimberley.
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