Every day, you are exposed to toxins from food and food additives, water, pesticides, chemicals and pharmaceutical drugs. Your colon's function is to carry waste through the digestive tract and expel feces, bacteria and dead cells from your body. However, sometimes the debris is not all eliminated, resulting in a buildup of toxic-laden plaque on your intestinal walls. Many people believe that a colon detox can cleanse and eliminate toxins from the body. Moderate detox diets usually emphasize nutritious foods that are easily assimilated, particularly fruit and vegetables.
When to Detox
Consider a colon cleanse when you experience health symptoms like a bloated belly, a metallic taste in your mouth, fatigue, acid reflux, stomach pain, bad breath, skin and hair problems or impaired digestion, says the Health Care Center website.
Choosing a Colon Detox Program
There are many detox methods available, ranging from simple diets that you can follow at home to controversial detox diets that include colon hydrotherapy, liver flush, and chelation. When choosing a detox diet, consider what foods you like, health implications and what options are available to encourage the chance of the diet becoming a lifestyle. A natural vegetarian diet can supply essential nutrients for the liver, the main organ involved in detoxifying your body. In addition, fruit and vegetables are high in fiber so you can effectively clean your colon without harsh laxatives or supplement pills.
Preparation
Whenever you are planning any significant change in your diet, consult your doctor. Beginning a week before your diet, gradually decrease your caffeine intake to minimize caffeine withdrawal symptoms. Cut down on sugar, refined carbohydrates, wheat and gluten products and alcohol. Drink plenty of water. Collect recipes that fit the diet profile. Go shopping in advance so you will have the correct foods on hand and not be tempted to snack on unhealthy choices.
Procedure
Your diet should last seven to 10 days. Generally, fruit, vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds are permitted. Avoid processed foods and products containing wheat and gluten, dairy, meat, fish, eggs, salt and sugar.
Fruit should be fresh and unpeeled, preferably organic. Thoroughly wash any food you plan to eat raw.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol and bottled drinks.
Side Effects
A common side effect experienced during the detox diet is excessive diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte loss. Constipation may occur if you don't increase your fluid intake enough. Other side effects can include fatigue, dizziness and nausea. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly protein and calcium, may result if a detox diet is continued for too long, warns the Mayo Clinic.
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