Periodically clearing toxins and waste from your body is an important way to remain healthy and feel good. The immediate effect of toxins and waste in the body manifests as feelings of fatigue and low energy. It can also cause headaches and weight gain. In the long term, excess toxins and waste in your body can lead to chronic illness and disease -- including arthritis, food allergies and cancer, according to Mark Hyman, M.D., author of "The UltraSimple Diet." Detoxifying your body through dietary changes will reduce toxins and improve bowel and kidney functions. This process is generally referred to as a colon cleanse.
Colon Clease
Step 1
Increase your water intake. Water is a natural way to filter toxins and waste because it flushes your system. According to the Mayo Clinic an average adult should consume eight 8 oz. cups of water per day.
Step 2
Increase the amount of raw fruits and vegetables you eat on a daily basis. Choose organic produce to eliminate toxins from fertilizers used in traditional farming methods. Dr. Hyman recommends eating cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and kale -- as well as garlic and onions. These vegetables increase sulfur in the body which assists in detoxification.
Step 3
Increase your fiber intake. Fiber promotes a healthy digestive system including bowel function. Choose whole grain breads and cereals that have at least 5 g of fiber per serving, according to University of California San Francisco Medical Center.
Step 4
Reduce your intake of refined and processed foods and avoid sugar.
Step 5
Increase your activity. Exercise helps your body function properly -- including your transit time, or the time it takes food to pass through your digestive system for elimination.
Tips and Warnings
- During your colon cleanse include foods or supplements that contain good bacteria known as probiotics. Certain yogurt products contain probiotics and are indicated on labeling as live and active cultures.
Things You'll Need
- Organic produce
- Water
- Fiber source
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