If you're trying to lose weight, a detox is one way to start. Unhealthy eating habits can cause a build-up of toxins in the body, impairing your digestion and metabolism. Getting rid of unhealthy chemicals and poisons in your body can give your diet a jump-start. Detoxing methods range from fasting to drinking nothing but juices. Generally, they last four to seven days. It's best to consult your health-care provider before starting detox and diet.
Significance of a Detox
Unhealthy eating may have caused your body to build up toxins, leaving you feeling bloated, fatigued and overweight. Linda Page, Ph.D., writes in "Detoxification" that fatigue, sluggishness, irritated skin and low-grade infection are symptoms of toxins in the system. She recommends detoxing to eliminate those poisons and chemicals. Peter Bennett, medical director of Helios Clinic in Victoria, B.C. recommends detoxing at least once a year. Your body will experience a mild starvation during a detox. But it will quickly and easily store needed nutrients and minerals. The detox will aid you in your weight-loss regimen by giving you a healthy start.
Liquid Detox
A juice cleanse is one detox method. Only freshly squeezed juice and water are permitted. By drinking just freshly squeezed juice rather than food, your body absorbs only vitamins, minerals and nutrients. The liquid diet enables you to digest quickly, relieving constipation and regulating your digestive system.
Juice Cleanse
Begin your detox with an array of fruits and a juicer. By juicing the fruits yourself you can keep what you consume additive- and preservative-free. Pesticide-free organic fruits are also recommended. Fruits to include in your detox are grapefruit, bananas, mangoes and apples, as they contain nutrients that will regulate your digestive system. Include pulp in your juice, as it wards off hunger and contains needed fiber.
Benefits
A juice detox cleanses your body of unhealthy chemicals and poisons. When you're finished, you will be able to consume healthy foods on a weight-loss regimen.
Considerations
A recommended diet after the cleanse is one rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, lean protein, nuts and seeds. Some people avoid meat and dairy because of the saturated fats and trans fats commonly found in meat and dairy. A vegetarian diet can promote weight loss and lead to a healthy transition from the detox.
You may experience some side effects during your detox, such as nausea, fatigue, dizziness and dehydration. Consult your physician before starting a detox and if you have any side effects.
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