Detox diets supposedly work to rid poisons and toxins from the body. Some foods typically emphasized in a detox diet include fruits and vegetables, whole grain foods and plenty of water. Also called cleansing diets, such eating plans aim to help your liver, lymphatic system and kidneys. However, there is no evidence of the need for or efficacy of detox diets; consult your physician before trying the Detox Strategy plan.
Background
Brenda Watson, a Certified Nutritional Consultant, along with Leonard Smith, M.D., discuss detox diets and provide five steps for ridding your body of unhealthy substances at the Detox Strategy website. Watson discusses ways to cleanse your body and help the cleansing organs work more effectively. She says that everyone has toxins in their bodies and her detox strategy will improve your health.
Weight Gain
In Watson's interview on Share Guide, she points out that toxins in your body can cause you to gain weight. She believes that when your body contains a lot of toxins, you will have a more difficult time becoming full during meals, which can cause you to overeat. Also, she says that your metabolism will slow down.
Reducing Exposure
The first step in Watson's Detox Strategy is to limit your exposure to toxins and to eat cleaner food, drink cleaner water and breathe cleaner air. She suggests purchasing a quality air purifier and keeping plants in the house. Plants supply oxygen to your home and can help filter out toxins. Watson advises using a water filter for cleaner drinking water and eating organic foods. These foods are pure, nutrient-rich and do not possess the pesticides that can be in regular produce. When grocery shopping, Watson suggests avoiding the interior aisles as these often have processed foods and foods high in sugar content.
Eliminating Toxins
The second step in Watson's Detox Strategy is to eliminate the toxins that have been in your body for a long period of time. She points out that a natural detoxing process requires the liver, kidneys and lungs to be supplemented with herbs, vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Cleansing the body can help keep the colon hydrated and expel mucous from the lungs. Also, use steam baths and saunas to promote perspiration. When you sweat, Watson believes your can skin expel harmful substances.
Nourishment and Energy
The next step of the diet focuses on the foods you should be eating. Watson suggests eating poultry, fish and lean meat. Eat a maximum of six eggs per week and choose fish such as flounder and halibut. Also, drink vegetable juice that's been freshly prepared rather than fruit juices. Eat fruits such as cherries, apples and bananas and avoid vegetables such as potatoes and beans. The fourth step focuses on exercise. Exercise can help reduce stress, improve sleep and improve flexibility. Begin an aerobic exercise, such as walking, slowly and increase the intensity in small increments each time. Also incorporate resistance bands into your workout to target different muscles.
Considerations
Watson suggests that it takes a lifetime commitment to wellness to maintain a healthy body. The final step in her diet plan is using the first four step's guidelines to create an ongoing eating plan that fits your needs
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