Facts on Detox Diets

1. Kick-Start Your Weight Loss Plan

A detox diet is an excellent starting point for a weight loss diet, because it gets your digestive system in top working condition. These diets can last from one day to a few weeks. Toxins that have built up in your body often slow down your digestive system, as well as your metabolism. A detox diet helps rid your body of these toxins, increasing your chances of successfully losing weight. Most holistic physicians recommend doing a detox diet every six months to a year.

2. Detox With Fruits and Veggies

Plenty of fruits and vegetables, as well as recommended daily amounts of water, are very important in detox diets. Detox diets range from very restrictive to very laid back. Some consist of only fruit juices for two days, while others consist of eating organic foods and drinks. Organic foods, such as organically grown grains, contain no chemicals or preservatives and are unprocessed. Raw foods, like carrots and apples, or simply prepared foods, like organic soup, are also suggested. Finding organic food is easier now that many grocery stores carry organic food, such as organically grown fruits and vegetables and organic soy milk.

3. Eliminate the Toxins

A detox diet aims to rid your body of toxins, which means you must avoid consuming additional toxins while on the diet. Stay away from caffeine, alcohol and drugs, and avoid things with chemicals and preservatives, such as potato chips, cookies and sugar-laden cereals. Most detox diets advocate the avoidance of meats, especially red meats.

4. Work Up to Detox

Most holistic physicians advise patients to build up to a detox diet. It's important you ease your way into it. For example, if you are a heavy coffee drinker, try to reduce your caffeine intake for several days before you actually start your diet. If you are going on a very restrictive detox diet, consider limiting your physical activities. To help battle your cravings for bad foods, only stock your refrigerator and cupboards with foods on your diet plan and find great recipes and food ideas before you start your diet. If you find yourself struggling, talk to a friend who has gone on a detox diet or seek the advice of a nutritionist or holistic counselor.

5. Ease Into Weight Loss

Once you have cleansed your system with a detox diet and are ready to start a weight loss diet, consider what you are eating. You have just worked very hard to rid your body of toxins. You have been eating whole, raw foods in many cases. Continue eating healthily and slowly introduce other foods, such as meat, back into your diet. Your body is now better prepared to break down toxins, and you will see a resurgence of energy and overall well-being.

Last updated on: Nov 18, 2009

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