Let’s talk about detoxes and cleanses, those buzzy trends that seem to resurface every January, post-vacation, and any time someone says, “I just feel bloated.” They come with sparkly promises: clear skin, better digestion, more energy, and even reversing inflammation. But here’s the thing… a lot of them are just diet culture in disguise. And when you're in midlife, juggling hormones, hot flashes, and maybe a metabolism that’s decided to take a sabbatical, the last thing you need is another fad.

So let’s set the record straight. Your body is already detoxing every single day. It has built-in systems (thank you, liver and kidneys) that do this beautifully. The real question isn't whether your body detoxes. It's: how efficiently is your body detoxing, and what can you do to support it, especially now?

First, What Even Is Detoxification?

Detoxification is your body’s natural process of breaking down and eliminating waste, both from external sources (think pollution, pesticides, preservatives) and internal ones (hello, metabolic byproducts). And yes, your body is constantly producing its own toxins, like urea, just from doing regular things like digesting food or working out.

Your detox systems are mostly centered in the liver, but also involve your gut, kidneys, lungs, and even your skin. It’s an elegant, 24/7 operation — no celery juice required.

But Here’s the Midlife Plot Twist…

As we age especially during perimenopause and menopause these natural systems can get a little sluggish. Hormonal shifts, slower metabolism, and even changes to our microbiome can impact how well we clear toxins. And for some of us, our genes play a starring role too.

That’s right: your detox capacity isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some women have genetic variants that make it harder to neutralize or eliminate certain toxins. Others might be more prone to inflammation or oxidative stress when their detox systems are overwhelmed. Knowing this can be empowering not discouraging.

Genetic Testing: Your Detox Blueprint

One of the most underutilized tools in midlife wellness? Genetic testing for detoxification pathways.

When you look at your genomic data you can identify:

Phase I and Phase II liver detox enzyme efficiency (like CYP450s, GSTs, COMT)
Methylation capacity (hello, MTHFR and folate metabolism)
Antioxidant defense genes like SOD2 or GPX1
Glutathione pathway variations (your master detoxifier!)

Why does this matter? Because if your blueprint shows that your detox pathways are sluggish or easily overwhelmed, then it’s even more important to dial in your nutrition and reduce exposures. You don’t need fear you need a personalized plan.

Nutrition Is Detox

Forget the juice cleanse. The real power lies in nutrient-dense food that gives your enzymes the fuel they need to do their job. Here’s what that looks like:

Colorful produce: Packed with antioxidants and fiber. Aim for 5–7 servings daily.
Cruciferous veggies: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage upregulate liver detox enzymes (especially useful if you have sluggish Phase II detox genes).
Healthy fats: Think omega-3s from fish, flax, and walnuts to reduce inflammation and support cell membranes (where toxins like to hide out).
Hydration: Water supports kidney detox and keeps things… moving.
Protein: Critical for glutathione production and supporting your detox enzymes. This is often overlooked in midlife women, especially during hormonal shifts.
Fermented foods: For gut health, which helps eliminate toxins through stool. A backed-up gut = a backed-up liver.

And if your genes show you need extra support? That’s where personalized advice comes in all based on your body’s unique needs.

So… Are Detox Diets a Scam?

Not always, but most are oversold and under-researched. Many just result in:

Temporary weight loss (usually water and carbs)
Nutrient deficiencies (because let’s be real: cayenne lemon water isn’t a balanced meal)
Disrupted metabolism especially risky for midlife women with thyroid or adrenal issues

And let’s not forget the gut microbiome. Extreme cleanses and low-fiber liquid diets can negatively impact gut diversity, which we need for detox and hormone balance.

If you feel better when doing a “cleanse,” it’s likely because you’ve ditched processed foods, alcohol, or inflammatory ingredients not because the plan itself is magical.

How to Support Detox Without the Cleanse

You don’t need to go to extremes. In fact, here’s what I recommend for my midlife clients:

Get your genetics tested to understand your detox blueprint
Eat for your pathways not trends
Focus on fiber, protein, and plants daily
Limit unnecessary exposures (alcohol, plastic, synthetic fragrances)
Move your body (sweating helps!)
Support your liver don’t punish it with starvation
Don’t fall for scare tactics or “quick fixes”
Work with someone who gets you (and your hormones)

Ready to Learn More?

If you’re navigating perimenopause or menopause and want to support your body’s natural detox processes without restriction or confusion, I’ve got you.

I offer personalized programs that combine nutritional counseling, functional testing (including genetics), and real-life strategies for midlife health. No juice cleanses. No shame. Just science and support.

Want to find out how well your body detoxes based on your genes?
Need help designing a plan that actually works with your hormones?

Let’s connect!. Apply to work with Dr. Kourtney here

Detoxing" in Midlife: What Your Body Actually Needs (Spoiler: It’s Not a Juice Cleanse)