Grace Oluwakoya, a certified Naturopath and Dietician, has highlighted the benefits of using activated charcoal for detoxification, explaining how it helps to trap harmful chemicals, toxins, and gases.
Speaking with Beyond Borders, she shared insights on naturopathy and the unique features of McGracias Activated Charcoal.
With over 12 years of experience in the field, Oluwakoya is dedicated to promoting health through natural remedies, “helping people heal and maintain balance, addressing chronic conditions, digestive health, and lifestyle transformation.”
The Danger of Toxins in Our Food
Oluwakoya expressed her concern about the growing number of people suffering from serious health problems like cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease. She believes that many of these issues come from toxins in our food and drinks, such as pesticides and preservatives.
“We have more than 80,000 chemicals in the world, but only 500 are safe for human consumption. These chemicals are found in our foods, water, toothpaste, deodorant, body creams and in one way or the other, enter our body systems as toxins and heavy metals,” she said.
The Power of Activated Charcoal
Oluwakoya recommended detoxifying the body regularly with activated charcoal to help remove these harmful substances. She explained that McGracias Activated Charcoal is made from natural materials like organic shells and herbal woods and is processed to create tiny pores. “The tiny pores greatly increase its surface area, enhancing its ability to trap toxins and chemicals,” she noted
Benefits of Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal has many uses beyond detoxification. According to Oluwakoya, it can help “prevent cellular damage to the kidneys, treat gout, inflammation, grievous wounds and sores, supports occasional intestinal gas,” and even be used in skincare and teeth whitening. Hence, it is a powerful natural remedy that can benefit many aspects of health.
Difference Between Activated and Regular Charcoal
Oluwakoya explained the key difference between activated charcoal and regular charcoal.
“Activated charcoal has a much higher surface area due to its extensive network of microscopic pores, making it highly absorbent. This allows it to bind and trap chemicals, toxins, and gases.
“Ordinary wood charcoal has fewer pores and a smaller surface area, which limits its ability to absorb toxins and chemicals,” she said.
Who Should Use Activated Charcoal?
Oluwakoya believes that everyone can benefit from using activated charcoal. “It’s great for people dealing with poisoning, digestive problems, or anyone who wants to detoxify from harmful chemicals in food, water, and the environment. It’s also useful for teeth whitening and improving skin health,” she explained.
She also advised parents to detoxify their children regularly, especially if they consume processed snacks like biscuits and juices. “Detoxifying them on bimonthly basis can help reduce their exposure to certain chronic illness,” she added.
Health Advice for Nigerians
Oluwakoya’s advice to Nigerians is simple: “Eat healthy, stay away from processed foods, drink plenty of water, exercise, and detoxify regularly. Remember, your health is your wealth.”
