Detoxification can transiently raise toxin levels in urine due to
Mobilization of stored toxins
During detoxification—whether through lifestyle changes, weight loss, exercise, chelation, fasting, sauna, or nutritional intervention—fat-soluble toxins and compounds that readily accumulate in adipose tissue and cellular membranes (such as some heavy metals, polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs], dioxins, and mycotoxins) may become mobilized for excretion. This transient rise in circulating toxin levels reflects the body’s physiological attempt to eliminate stored toxicants. (Jackson et al., 2017; Shekar et al., 2025).Phase I and II liver detox pathways
The liver converts toxins into more water-soluble forms through enzymatic processes (Phase I: oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis; Phase II: conjugation), which are then excreted via urine or bile. Enhanced liver activity can temporarily increase the amount of detoxified metabolites in urine.Chelation or binding therapies
Chelating agents (e.g., DMSA, DMPS) can acutely raise urinary heavy metal levels by pulling metals from tissues into the circulation and enhancing renal excretion (Smith, 2013).