The popularity of “Detox Diets” waxes and wanes throughout the year. Detox diets claim to clean your body and eliminate harmful toxins from your body, and they are generally short-term dietary interventions. They do not teach you how to eat well for the long-term. Detox diets are varied, but they almost always involve fasting, eating specific foods, avoiding harmful ingredients, and/or taking supplements. Some people claim to feel more focused and energetic during and after detox diets. But this feeling may simply be due to eliminating processed foods, alcohol and other unhealthy items from your diet. You may also be getting vitamins & minerals that were lacking in your diet before the “detox”. On the other hand, some people report feeling rather unwell during the detox diet.
“Detox diets” claim drastic weight loss which in itself should be an alarm bell, since rapid weight loss is most likely due to loss of fluid retention and not fat loss. This weight is usually regained quickly once you go off the cleanse. Severe calorie restriction will cause weight loss, but it’s unlikely to help you keep weight off in the long term. In addition, severe calorie restriction can result in fatigue, irritability and bad breath. Some detox diets recommend long-term fasting, which can result in energy, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, as well as electrolyte imbalance and even death So-called colon-cleanses can cause dehydration, cramping, bloating, nausea & vomiting.
Our bodies are designed to remove toxic substances, with kidneys & liver, toxins are process and excreted through various processes, e.g. sweating; urinating.. There is no need to starve or follow crazy detox diets, that also cost a fortune.
The best way to support the organs that detoxify the body, and their processes, is to eat a healthy balanced diet, getting enough exercise, plenty of sleep and drinking enough water to stay well hydrated. Let me know if you need any help with your diet.
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