Detoxing, a popular diet concept, is thought to cleanse your body from toxins while producing rapid weight loss. Fasting would typically not involve any food, but fruit fasts, or fruit flushes, include eating mainly or only fruit, for a certain length of time. Beware of dehydration, loss of energy, dizziness and nausea, as these are problems that may result, according to Mayo Clinic nutritionist, Katherine Zeratsky. Speak to your doctor before considering this type of diet.
Fruit Flush
Jay Robb, nutritionist and author of "3 Day Fruit Flush Plan," claims that using this program for three days may result in weight loss of 9 lbs., in addition to cleansing your body from toxins and resetting your appetite. It also can be used occasionally as part of a balanced, healthy diet. Robb says on day one, drink protein shakes five times, once every two hours, ending your day with a dinner of raw vegetable salad with olive oil. Days two and three replace protein shakes with 2 cups of fruit every two hours, ending with a salad and protein shake for dinner.
3-Day Fruit Fast
Yogi and triathlete Ravi Ramen normally eats a vegan diet of only plant-based food, plus gave up sugar and caffeine weeks prior to beginning his fruit-only 3-day detox. Ramen included cucumbers, peppers, avocados and tomatoes, as these are all technically considered fruits and reported feeling some mild nausea and extreme hunger on day 2, the most difficult day for him. He lost 6 lbs., and felt refreshed and light during and after the diet.
Diet Foods
When you add other foods back in to your diet, certain foods may help you lose weight. Robb's plan includes protein drinks, and he also suggests adding lean proteins to your salad, such as chicken, fish, turkey and egg whites. Other foods that may help your efforts to lose weight include hot peppers, which boost metabolism, and almonds, which contain calcium and protein, which are both helpful with weight management.
Pros, Cons and Tips
Even for three days, a diet this restrictive is difficult to stick with and can produce serious side effects. However, religions from Buddhists to Catholics, Jews to Muslims use fasting as a way to purify themselves and focus on prayer or meditation. Your kidneys and liver will normally take care of the detoxification that your body really needs, but you may feel more energetic or focused by eating this way. Avoid cardiovascular exercise and resistance training during your fast, also. If you plan to workout, focus on balance and stretching. Do not begin a fasting diet without talking to your doctor first.
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