You may have considered a fruit and vegetable detox diet to remove impurities and other toxins from your body. Some believe that a detox diet will help achieve their weight-loss goals. However, MayoClinic.com reports that little evidence exists to support the claims of these diets, despite the praises given them by celebrities and the media.
History
There are numerous types of detox diets, but a fruit and vegetable detox begins with a fasting period and then continues to a diet that contains nothing but water, vegetables, fruit and fruit juices. Although not required, many people also choose to include nutritional supplements and perform enemas to empty the intestines. Although the time frame of a detox diet varies by dieter, most diets last for a minimum of 10 days.
Types
Although a fruit and vegetable detox diet sounds straightforward, there are actually several types. Some forms of the diet allow for the vegetables to be cooked while others believe that the cooking process eliminates the nutrients necessary for body detoxification. Another variation of the fruit and vegetable diet is the juicing detox, which requires all the foods to be placed in a juicer and drunk. It is believed that consuming the juice allows the nutrients to enter your body at a faster pace.
Time Frame
The amount of time spent performing a fruit and vegetable detox diet will depend solely on the exact diet plan that is being followed. Someone looking to simply flush away toxins from the body may only decide to stay on the diet for a day or two. If you are looking to achieve weight loss along with detoxification, the diet may require you to follow its plan for 21 days or more, according to the American Dietetic Association.
Warning
According to MayoClinic.com, despite the claims and promises made by supporters of detox diets, there is no scientific evidence that they do anything to remove toxins from your body. The diet also has several potential side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, dehydration, dizziness and fatigue.
Considerations
If you decide to begin a fruit and vegetable detoxification diet, be sure to speak with your doctor for any advice and supervision. While this diet provides some essential vitamins and nutrients, others, such as protein, are not represented at all. Taking a multivitamin on a daily basis provides your body with the nutrients that may be lacking with the diet.
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