GAPS for Beginners Series: Detox Baths



Image by Fleur Suijten

Detoxification is an important part of the GAPS program. In addition to reducing the amount of toxins we encounter daily, while on GAPS we also need to remove old toxins that have accumulated in our bodies. Detox baths are one method of assisting detoxification.

Detox baths help draw out toxins through the skin. To achieve detoxification you need to add a detox aid to your bath, such as apple cider vinegar, Epsom salts, sea salts or baking soda. 1 cup of the detox aid is usually a good amount, although feel free to experiment to see what’s right for you. You can also mix two or more detox aids together in one bath.

I try to stay in my detox bath for at least 20 minutes. Make it a fun, relaxing part of your day. I like to watch TV shows on my laptop to pass the time. For a nice sensory experience, add some essential oils to your bathwater.

At first I felt guilty about taking time out of my day to sit in the bath. It seemed like I should be doing something more productive with my time. Now, however, I’ve come to believe that those baths are helping me heal and that that is time well spent. I know that not everyone can fit baths into their schedule (especially those of you with young children) but I think it’s a worthwhile habit if you can manage it.

NCM recommends taking a detox bath every day. I personally don’t have time for a bath every night, but I try to shoot for at least four per week. You could also go the opposite direction and take more than one bath per day, if you feel the need.

Detox baths are supposed to be especially helpful during periods of die-off, times when killing off your bad gut flora leads to unpleasant symptoms. I have never noticed detox baths directly relieving die-off symptoms but I know many people find them helpful.

If you don’t think you have time for a full detox bath, Patty from Loving Our Guts has an excellent suggestion for turning a shower into a quick detox bath.

Do you take detox baths? Do you enjoy relaxing in the tub, or do you feel like you’re wasting your time? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

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