Detox diets are intended to cleanse the body of toxins accumulated from poor dietary habits as well as pollution and chemicals in the environment. Although they may be beneficial for many people, they are not meant to be followed over the long term due to potential health risks including fatigue, nausea and dehydration. Consult with a physician prior to initiating any new marketed program that claims to detox your body. According to the Mayo Clinic, detoxes are not necessary, rather a nutritious diet combined with regular physical activity can help you achieve good health.
Fruits and Vegetables
A healthy detox for the body should include a well-balanced diet that consists primarily of fruits and vegetables. Most produce items, particularly berries and non-starchy vegetables, are generally low in calories, have little to no fat and no added sugars. Furthermore, they are are a source of essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that protect against certain cancers and heart disease. The high fiber and water content of produce helps fill you up as well as regulate the digestive system to flush waste products from the body through the process of elimination.
Drink Water
A healthy body detox should include drinking plenty of clear fluids, primarily water. Water has no calories, fat or sugars and helps decrease the risk of dehydration that may result from inadequate fluid intake. Water also helps maintain a healthy digestive system by flushing toxins from the digestive tract, which decreases common digestive upsets such as bloating, constipation and flatulence. Drink at least eight to 10 cups of water daily. Fruits, vegetables, herbal teas and clear-based broths also contribute to daily total fluid intake.
Dry Skin Brushing
In addition to dietary changes, a body detox should include healthy hygienic practices to aid in toxin removal. According to Kris Carr, author of "Crazy Sexy Diet," dry skin brushing helps remove dead skin cells, increases circulation and stimulates the immune system. For this practice, you will need a soft bristle brush, which you use once a day before bathing, to brush the body in small, circular strokes starting from the feet up.
Exercise
A healthy detox plan should consist of regular physical activity. Exercise has several health benefits including reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing weight, decreasing stress and eliminating toxins through sweat and body fluids. Gaiam Life.com cites Peter Bennett, N.D., and co-author of the "7-Day Detox Diet," as recommending an hour of exercise or other physical movement daily, which may include activities such as yoga, jump-roping or qigong.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Nutrition and Healthy Eating: Detox Diets: Do They Work?
- "Detox for the Rest of Us: Safe and Easy Plans to Cleanse Your Body, Boost Your Metabolism, Lose Weight, and Feel Great!"; Carole Jacobs; 2010
- Crazy Sexy Life: Dry Brushing
- "Crazy Sexy Diet: Eat Your Veggies, Ignite Your Spark, and Live Like You Mean It!"; Kris Carr, Rory Freedman & Dean Ornish, M.D.; 2011
- Gaiam Life: 10 Ways To Detoxify Your Body
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