Detoxification diets claim to remove accumulated toxins from the body. Many detox diets last seven to 10 days, but some doctors recommend a detox period of three weeks for maximum benefits. If you are considering a detox diet, choose one that provides adequate nutrition and does not severely restrict your caloric intake. Consult your health care professional before going on a detox diet.
Function
Some debate exists about the need for intense detoxification diets, and scientific evidence into the effectiveness of such programs is lacking. Many medical professionals claim that the body's natural system of detoxification, which includes the liver and kidneys, is sufficient in removing any toxins you may encounter. Others, however, state that the abundance of chemicals present in our environment and foods today is greater than the body can handle. Engaging in a periodic detox focus may help your body's natural detoxification process work more effectively, says Patricia Fitzgerald, doctor of homeopathic medicine.
Elimination Diet
Dr. Alejandro Junger, director of integrative medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, has developed a three-week detox diet, which he explains in his book "Clean: The Revolutionary Program to Restore the Body's Natural Ability to Heal Itself." The program begins by following an elimination diet, which is designed to remove unhealthy foods, as well as potential allergens or irritants, from your diet. Depending on your current eating habits, you may need to follow the elimination diet for a few days to several weeks before beginning the more intensive detox diet. Foods to remove from your diet include red meat, dairy, processed foods, sugar and artificial sweeteners, wheat, corn, soy, peanuts, tomatoes and potatoes.
Daily Recommendations
Junger's three-week detox diet consists of two liquid meals a day and one solid meal consistent with the elimination diet guidelines. For the liquid meals, you may either buy meal-replacement shakes or make your own soups, juices and smoothies using allowed fruits and vegetables. To optimize your digestion and detoxification processes, he recommends waiting at least 12 hours after dinner before eating breakfast. He also recommends the use of some dietary supplements and drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Optional Recommendations
Certain other daily activities may help improve your overall physical, mental and emotional health, which Junger states are all important components in a detoxification program. He recommends moderate exercise, massage, skin brushing and saunas, as well as alternating hot and cold water in the shower to increase circulation. Expressing your artistic side, journaling and doing something every day that makes you laugh may also help increase your overall sense of well-being.
Warnings
Some risks are inherent with detoxification diets, such as fatigue, dizziness and nausea, according to MayoClinic.com. Junger does not recommend an intense detox diet if you are pregnant or nursing, in the advanced stages of cancer and rapidly losing weight or on any medications that require a stable blood concentration. Do not attempt to self-treat any serious medical condition with a detox diet.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Detox Diets---Do They Work?
- Dr. Frank Lipman: Detox Demystified: Fad, Fact, or Fiction?
- "Clean: The Revolutionary Program to Restore the Body's Natural Ability to Heal Itself"; Alejandro Junger; 2009
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