What Is A Detox Diet

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Sandra Kim Leong

Sandra Kim Leong provides free research and special reports in her newsletter on Detox Diet.

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This is a common question that has been posed to me: What is a detox diet? Another common question is: Why is it necessary to detox? Many know of these terms but clearly wish to find out more.

To answer these questions, I have written a FAQ list on the topic of detox diet. Hopefully, these explanations will clear some doubt on why it is necessary to detox.

What is detox?

In these days of hectic lifestyles, toxic wastes accumulates in your body because of breathing in air full of pollutants, consuming junk food, smoking cigarettes etc. These toxic wastes do a great harm to your body tissues. Detox is the short form for detoxification. It is a natural ongoing process in our bodies, which neutralize these toxic wastes, chemically transforming it into relatively harmless compounds, which are then eliminated from the body via stools or urine.

What is Detox Diet?

Detox diet is a diet that helps our bodies to eliminate harmful toxic wastes. There are many types of detox diets. In general, many people refer the term "detox diet" to mean a dedicated detox diet plan program that is undertaken to remove toxins from a specific part of the body. For instance, there can be detox diet programs for cleansing of the colon, liver or the GI tract.

Dedicated detox diet programs are very often short-term diets. Detox diets are also recommended for losing weight. They work by giving our bodies various organic chemical compounds required for detoxification, such as vitamins, antioxidants and other necessary nutrients. Some of these organic compounds help elimination of waste products from our bodies by increasing the frequency of bowel movements and urination.

Why do We Need a Detox Diet?

Regular intake of poor diets substantially reduces the natural ability of our bodies to detoxify and eliminate toxic chemicals. There are symptoms associated with failure of our bodies to eliminate toxins. Some of them are feelings of sluggishness, frequent colds, digestive problems etc. The presence of toxins further lead to conditions like hormonal imbalance, impaired immune function, nutritional deficiency and inefficient metabolism. The detox diet repairs, maintains and maximizes the natural detoxification abilities of our bodies.

What are the benefits of a detox diet?

Some of the benefits derived from a detox diet program include increased stamina and energy, enhanced mental alertness, clearer skin, better immune system, improved digestion and lots more.

When is a detox diet not advised?

Detox diets are not advisable for pregnant women. Again, if you are suffering from diseases such as anemia, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, lowered immunity, hypothyroidism, low blood pressure, ulcers, epilepsy, cancer or ulcerative colitis, some detox diets may not be appropriate for you. Moreover, detox diets are not meant for children. One should not undertake a detox diet on a prolonged basis because it may result in nutritional deficiencies.

Are there any side effects when going through a detox diet program?

Yes, there are a few. For example, within the first few days of starting a detox diet, you may suffer from headaches. Sometimes, it may cause excessive diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte loss. Again, if you do not consume adequate water with this diet, it may lead to constipation.

Do I need to consult a doctor before trying a detox diet?

Yes, you are advised to. Just because you are facing symptoms like tiredness, irritability, acne, weight loss, and hunger, it does not mean that you need a detox diet. Sometimes, there may be other medical reasons that require different treatment. Therefore, do consult a doctor and get a thorough check up done before you start taking a detox diet program.

What foods are included in detox diet?

A detox diet includes high fiber foods and consumption of adequate amount of water. It normally includes fresh and green vegetables like broccoli, spinach etc and other healthy foods like garlic, artichokes, beets, cauliflower, rice, beans, nuts and seeds. It also includes plenty of fresh fruits except grapes.

Can I continue medication during a detox diet?

No, you should generally be undertaking a detox diet program during a period when you are feeling well. As such, if you are having your period, do not go on a detox diet program either during this time.

What can I eat once detox diet is over?

Once you have finished a course of a detox diet, you should gradually ease back into a less restrictive yet healthy diet.

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