Quick Ways to Detox Your Body

Quick Ways to Detox Your Body
Photo Credit Veggies image by Charles Jarrett from Fotolia.com

Detox diets involve a huge number of options, from complete fasting to drinking only juices or raw foods to taking special supplements. The Mayo Clinic points out that there's no scientific data that proves detox programs are needed, so if you try one, be careful and mindful of side effects. Probable side effects of a detox include dizziness and fatigue, nausea and dehydration.

Cutting Out Excesses

Detox your body by eliminating items that provide no nutritional value but are high in sugars and saturated fats. Examples include pastries and desserts, as well as sugary drinks. Saturated fats--those of animal origin--are the next thing that should go, preferably replaced by healthier proteins such as soy and unsaturated fats such as olive oil.
Alcohol and coffee are also best avoided, according to an article in Shape magazine. Drinking affects appetite, so giving up alcohol will make you less likely to overeat. If you smoke, stop during the detox period.

Juice Detox

One of the most common forms of detoxing your body is doing a juice fast. This is probably the fastest way to do it, too, since you are giving up all foods and drinks except for vegetables and fruits. Juices used in a detox should be homemade, not store-bought. For best results, eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, which will ensure you're getting all of the necessary vitamins and minerals.

Fasting

Fasts do not necessarily mean that you will give up food completely, especially if they are going to last for more than a day. The medical health information network Health Adel recommends fasting for only 24 hours and doing it on a day when you can relax and won't be active. During the fasting day, drinks lots of water to keep you hydrated and to keep your energy up.
After the initial 24 hours, spend the next few days eating raw fruits and vegetables. Eat as much as you want of this, and focus on organic produce if possible. After two or three days, start adding whole grains, vegetable fats such as olive oil and nuts and seeds. Do this slowly and in small portions, until you are back to eating a regular full diet.

References

Article reviewed by Eric Lochridge Last updated on: Apr 30, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments