Whether you've been treated recently for a bacterial infection, or have been consuming large quantities of animal products, you likely have residual antibiotics in your system. Antibiotics can keep your body's digestive system from functioning properly by killing off the good bacteria found in your mouth, colon and stomach. Antibiotics have been linked to birth defects when ingested by pregnant mothers, and are being blamed for antibiotic-resistant superbugs. Eliminating excess antibiotics from your system can restore digestive balance and help your immune system fight disease.
Eliminate the Source
The first step to getting antibiotics out of your system is to stop ingesting them. Animal products that are not organically produced have usually been treated with antibiotics, often shortly before they reach market. This includes dairy, eggs, meat, farm-raised fish and processed foods that contain animal products as ingredients. Never take prescription antibiotics unless you know you have a bacterial infection. Antibiotics do not work on viruses.
Exercise
Exercises that elevate your core temperature and increase your heart and respiratory rates will help your body to eliminate toxins such as antibiotics by forcing them out of your tissues and into your eliminatory system. Core exercises that stimulate the muscles surrounding your vital organs will encourage blood circulation to the organs. Your blood carries oxygen and nutrients to your cells and carries away toxins and metabolic waste.
Drink Water
Water helps keep your system flushed and enables your vital organs to function at optimal levels. Antibiotics and other toxic substances will leave the body more quickly if your liver and kidneys are well-hydrated. Water also helps boost your blood volume, and will facilitate the process of cellular detoxification.
Undoing the Damage
Once you stop ingesting antibiotics, restore the beneficial bacteria your body needs by supplementing with a probiotic. Probiotics can be purchased over-the-counter in pill and capsule form from a health food store, or you by consuming foods that contain live bacterial cultures such as yogurt and kefir.
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Writer Bio
Michelle Matte is an accomplished fitness professional who holds certifications in personal training, pilates, yoga, group exercise and senior fitness. She has developed curricula for personal trainers and group exercise instructors for an international education provider. In her spare time, Matte writes fiction and blogs.