# Detox & Reset: What Actually Happens Physiologically During a Targeted Break

> 'Detox' is often just marketing. But targeted relief phases have a solid scientific foundation. What really happens when you take the load off your body.

The word "detox" has a bad reputation in the health industry, deservedly so in many cases. But the concept of targeted relief is valid and scientifically sound.

## What the body really needs

The body does not detoxify through external supplements. It does so continuously through the liver, kidneys, lymphatic system and lungs. What it needs is simple: to avoid being permanently overloaded.

## Autophagy: the most important form of relief

Yoshinori Ohsumi received the Nobel Prize in 2016 for his work on autophagy mechanisms. Calorie reduction inhibits mTOR and activates autophagy: damaged proteins and defective organelles are broken down and recycled.

## Gut microbiome regeneration

The gut microbiome, 38 trillion bacteria, influences immune function, mood and energy metabolism. A relief phase with fewer processed foods has a positive effect: pathogenic bacteria decline while beneficial ones proliferate. Production of short-chain fatty acids (butyrate) increases.

## Reducing inflammation

Chronic low-grade inflammation, known as inflammaging, is one of the main drivers of fatigue and cognitive decline. Seven days of an anti-inflammatory diet measurably reduces hsCRP and IL-6.

## The WOO® protocol

WOO® White Box Reset (7 days): **[WOO® Metabolic](/en/shop/woo-metabolic-box)** for enzyme and micronutrient support, **[WOO® Amino](/en/shop/woo-amino-can)** to protect against muscle loss. Available in our shop.

## When a relief phase makes sense

2-4 times a year for 7 days. As a starting point for new nutrition or training programs. After demanding periods.

## Frequently asked questions

**Will I lose muscle?**
With adequate protein intake and a duration of 7 days: no.

**Is a reset suitable for everyone?**
For healthy adults, yes. Pregnant women and people with medical conditions should consult a doctor first.

**What do I drink?**
Water (2-3 liters), herbal tea, green tea, all without sugar.

## Sources

Mizushima N & Komatsu M (2011), Cell - Autophagy: renovation of cells and tissues.
Sonnenburg ED & Sonnenburg JL (2014), Nature - Starving our microbial self.
Calder PC (2013), American Journal of Clinical Nutrition - Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes.
Cheng CW et al. (2017), Cell Stem Cell - Prolonged fasting reduces IGF-1/PKA.

*WOO® White Box Reset - everything included for 7 days. In our NEMAPO Shop.*