Raw foodists often indulge in periodic cleanses. However, there are small things you can do each and every day that serve as mini-cleanses. They help keep your body free from excessive waste, toxic matter and potential bacteria. Our bodies constantly collect debris. Our skin is the largest organ on the body, and the most likely to collect dirt and dust.
Our skin also sheds, and because of this occasionally requires a good buff.
Benefits of Body Brushes
Because of the buildup of pollution and excess tissue, it benefits the body to get a good brush every now and again. When brushing the skin it is always best to use a brush with natural bristles.
Brushing the skin also stimulates circulation in the skin which can act as an energy pick me up. For those suffering from acne it can help purge toxins from the skin. For individuals performing a cleanse it can speed the process. Some health educators swear that daily brushing will help reduce the look of cellulite, but be aware we can't support any such claim.
Most people that exercise and eat well on a raw food diet do not tend to have many problems with their weight anyway.
Benefits of Tongue Scrapings
Our tongues are very rough and contain a fine layer of fur to coat them. This fir can become embedded with all types of bacteria throughout the day. Food particles especially like to embed on the tongue, especially if you brush and floss every day but do not brush or clean your tongue.
Many people do brush their tongues with their toothbrush with the hope that this will help reduce the odor in their mouth. Thousands of people suffer from “halitosis” or bad breath, it is not uncommon. There are many causes for this including bad teeth or a gum infection, rotting food particles in the mouth or poor hygiene. A simple build up of pollution on the tongue may also be to blame.
My Tongue & Heart Disease!!!
Over time buildup of such particles on the tongue can lead to serious consequences including heart disease. In fact, pathogens brought into the bloodstream by the tongue are among the worst kind, so you want to avoid them if at all possible. While many people brush their tongues this is not always the most efficient way to clean the tongue.
Far too often the bristles on the brush tend to get overly clogged with grime, dirt and old toothpaste. If you set your toothpaste down on the counter it will collect even more bacteria. This is one reason why it is better to consider a tongue scraping device.
Tongue Scrapers vs. Brushers
Of course, there is nothing really wrong with a brush if you use one, because it is a sign you take care of your teeth and that is great! However, a brush again can collect lots of debris with time, and can be a nesting pot for germs and disease. A tongue scraper however is a novel instrument that doesn't have much to it.
Tongue scrapers basically remove the film that coats the tongue due to the collection of food particles, stale coffee and other worldly delights. Daily tongue scraping may decrease your risk of disease and help bolster your immunity. It will also improve your breath, as much as brushing your teeth and using floss would.
There are also tongue brushers available. Some people just use their toothbrush. You can do this if you are in a pinch; however keep in mind any bacteria on your toothbrush will spread to your tongue. If you accidentally puncture your tongue any bacteria on the brush will leak inside your bloodstream.
Of course, if you already have bacteria on your tongue it will probably find its way into your body at some point if you don't eliminate it, but why rush these along? You may find the cure for this bacteria before you cut your tongue right?
If you are absolutely unconvinced of which model will be the best for you, or you have specific health concerns about the tongue scraper or body brush, be sure to talk with your doctor and/or dentist. They can help evaluate your current bite, the condition of your teeth and your need for the instrument. They will then offer you the best possible solution given your eye health and history.
How To Use a Tongue Scraper
Tongue scrapers are easy to use. All you have to do is place the scraper as far back on your tongue as you can, and then stroke then scrape forward. Some people gag when they first try and even the first few times, especially if they have a strong gag reflex. This is normal and nothing to worry about unless you make yourself vomit.
If you do, don't go quite as far back next time. You can rinse with water after.
Some characteristics of a good tongue scraper? It should have comfortable edges so you don't have to worry about cutting yourself. It should also be made from durable materials so you don't have to worry about it breaking, and it should be shaped in a manner that works well for you. You don't want to have to spend hours trying to get the gizmo in your mouth to perform a two minute job after all.
Raw foodists… don't just pay attention to the food you eat. Pay attention to your teeth and skin! This will only benefit you in the long run, helping you appreciate all nature has to offer and your physical body too. Remember to take care of your skin and tongue, and it will serve you well for years to come.
By TTS Cofounder Botanical Chef Omid Jaffari
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