Body Detox and the Respiratory System

Our respiratory system, consisting of the lungs, bronchials, sinuses, nose and throat, has an immune defense means to kill incoming bacteria and viruses via oxygen that is breathed in. The oxygen, as an important nutrient for all metabolic processes in the body, also nurtures our body cells in doing their specific detox jobs.

Our nose hairs catch bacteria, dust and other impurities. The mucus in the inside of the lungs draws particulate matter and stops it from going into the breathing cavity. Sometimes, we cough to expel foreign substances. Our lungs can also convert such toxins into water-soluble chemicals which can be eliminated by our kidneys.

Those toxins that go into the body deeper can be destroyed by immune cells; some others can however escape and stay in various organs or tissues or even our lungs.

Whenever we exhale, our lungs detoxify our body by releasing carbon dioxide as a waste product of our body processes, together with toxins like volatile organic compounds.

At the same time, toxins arising from smogs in polluted cities, print shops, oil refineries, toxic outgassing from carpet, paint and air conditioning, can affect our lungs the most, although they can also be spread to other body parts.

It is recommended that all former smokers go for a basic detoxification program.

Congestion, tiredness, wheezing, persistent coughs, bronchitis, allergies, continuous colds/flus and lung cancer are signs of our lungs having too many toxins.

Other factors such as smoking (cigarettes and marijuana), refined sugar and flour, little exposure to fresh air can also weaken our respiratory system.

We can ensure our lungs and respiratory system remain healthy through doing yoga or more exercise in a clean air place, eating more vegetables, going for steam inhalation, applying deep breathing techniques and drinking enough water.