According to the Mayo Clinic, the human body naturally cleanses itself through the digestive system, liver and kidneys. Even though unnecessary, many people like how they feel after participating in a cleanse, and include one as a regular part of their health program. As long as you are in good health, participating in cleansing programs should be safe. Using natural ingredients in the cleanse is a smart choice, as you can control exactly what you are ingesting.
Step 1
Choose a plan. There are a variety of detox cleansing plans available. Some of them are very structured, such as the Master Cleanse. The Master Cleanse involves drinking a lemonade mixture that includes ingredients such as cayenne pepper and maple syrup, as well as a daily dose of salt water to speed along the cleansing process. Other detox programs are less structured. They include drinking only juices, eating only raw foods, or eating nothing during the day and having a light meal at night.
Step 2
Purchase supplies. Purchase all of the food necessary for the fast before you begin. Once you start your fast, heading to the grocery store will be a test of your willpower. If you are relying heavily on fresh fruits and vegetables for the fast, you may need to make follow-up visits to the grocery store. Plan these trips for a time when your willpower is naturally strong and the store is not crowded so that you can get in and out quickly.
Step 3
Consider options other than food. Some people include salt-water beverages or enemas as part of their detoxification program. Others treat the detox cleanse as a mini spa period, spending time soaking in the tub, relaxing and participating in gentle exercise.
Step 4
Get plenty of rest. The low number of calories that you will consume on a detox diet means that you won't have extra energy. Walking and yoga are great additions to your daily schedule, but running, cycling or weight lifting are more strenuous. Participating in these activities may increase your hunger or lead to injury due to pushing yourself through fatigue.
Step 5
Add a probiotic. After you complete your fast, slowly reintroduce food. The lack of activity in your digestive tract may decrease the amount of naturally occurring bacteria that are vital for digestion. To maintain any benefits gained from the detoxification cleanse, eat yogurt with active cultures to replenish the beneficial bacteria.
Tips and Warnings
- A detox cleanse can last 24 hours to several weeks. Headaches are a common side effect of detox cleansing, and are typically the result of caffeine withdrawal.
- If you feel lightheaded or dizzy, consider adding some calories to your plan.
Things You'll Need
- Yogurt with active cultures
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