The body has several mechanisms to detoxify, primarily through the liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, and gastrointestinal system. The liver plays a central role by converting lipid-soluble toxins into water-soluble substances that can be excreted in urine or bile. This process involves two main phases:
Phase I (Biotransformation): Enzymes such as cytochrome P450 oxidize toxins, making them more reactive. Phase II (Conjugation): Conjugation enzymes add chemical groups to the reactive toxins, making them water-soluble and easier to excrete.