A Detox Fasting Diet

Detox fasting diets are generally considered unnecessary as part of a healthy lifestyle. Many people, however, do like to participate in occasional detoxification and cleansing programs. According to the Mayo Clinic, many people feel lighter, more alert and healthier after a detox program. If you are in good health, a detoxification and cleanse is harmless. Choosing natural ingredients for the detox may enhance any benefits due to an increase in the nutrients of natural foods and the lack of preservatives.

What is Involved?

There are many choices when detox fasting. You may choose to purchase a commercially available kit for the detoxification process, or you may choose to put together your own plan. Putting together your own detox plan allows you to control exactly what you are putting in your body.

Choose a Plan

Once you have decided you want to fast, it is time to choose a plan. A juicer is a great addition to a detox fast. A juicer allows you to combine various fruits and vegetables in a way that is appetizing. Juice fasting is a popular detoxification routine where only juices are consumed. Making your own juice with fresh, organic fruits and vegetables allows you to add variety to the cleanse and provides you with complete control over the diet.

Detox Diet Options

The Master Cleanse is another popular detox fast. This program uses a recipe for lemonade that includes maple syrup and cayenne pepper. Proponents of the Master Cleanse program report that they lose weight, feel more energetic and notice a reduction in cravings.

Another choice for detox fasting is a raw food fast. Raw food proponents eat mostly raw fruits and vegetables, with some protein source, such as nuts or meat, if the participant is not vegetarian. During a raw foods fast, only eat raw fruits and vegetables. The cleanse is similar to juice fasting, except the participant can eat fruits and vegetables, not just drink their juice. The added fiber of whole fruits and vegetables increases feelings of fullness and may make the cleanse easier to tolerate.

Detox Time

The length of time that you spend on a detox program depends on your goals and will power. For some people, a 2-day detox program is the perfect length of time, others choose to cleanse for 10 days. The longer you plan to stay on a restricted diet, the greater attention you should pay to the amount of nutrients you eat. Regardless of how long the detox is scheduled to last, take a multivitamin while cleansing.