The term "detox" is used to describe two types of programs: detox diets and detox programs for drug and alcohol abuse. Each has its own standard processes. Detox diets are intended to cleanse the body of toxins, bloat and excess weight by limiting or eliminating certain -- or all -- foods for a limited period of time. Detox programs are in- or outpatient programs designed to help participants recover from a drug or alcohol addiction. This type of detox requires close supervision from a medical professional or counselor.
Low-Calorie Detox Diet
One of the more popular detox diet regimens involves avoiding all solid foods and drinking only water with lemon juice, or other types of fresh juices, for up to 10 days. Such a diet amounts to starvation and will inevitably lead to weight loss; however, the weight will return once you resume healthy eating. It can also cause muscle breakdown, blood sugar and immune system problems, dehydration and electrolyte depletion, fatigue, lowered metabolism and diarrhea. These diets are unhealthy and should never be practiced by pregnant women, the elderly or children.
Intestinal Cleansing Detox Diet
Some detox diets, marketed as "colon cleansers" or "intestinal cleansers," require you to purchase a kit of bulk-forming fiber, herbal supplements and a laxative tea or herb. The goal of these diets is to flush any parasites and accumulated fecal matter from the intestines. Bowel movements often increase during such diets, leading practitioners to believe that excess fecal matter is being released; however, this excess is frequently caused by the fiber supplements included in the plan. There is no evidence that such a system improves bowel health, and it can be dangerous for pregnant women, the elderly or people with compromised immune systems.
Healthy Detox Diet
Your body's own detoxification systems -- the skin, respiratory systems, intestines, liver and kidneys -- are all most people need to deal with environmental and dietary toxins; however, you may gently and healthfully detoxify your system and intestines by following a few simple guidelines. Eliminate caffeine, alcohol, tobacco and refined sugars from your diet. Avoid processed or packaged foods and replace all processed, or white, grains with whole grains. Choose organic animal products in small amounts. Drink lots of pure water and herbal tea instead of sugary drinks. Yoga poses like twists can help support this process. This type of detox will help restore your body's balance and health and promote good digestion.
Drug and Alcohol Detox Programs
Detox programs for drug and alcohol abuse can be either residential or nonresidential. In a residential detox, the patient lives at the facility and undergoes a combination of medication and therapy to safely wean off the drug of choice and support his sobriety. In a nonresidential program, the patient remains at home but visits the rehabilitation center anywhere from a few days a week to every day. In either case, long-term therapy and support of family and friends are essential to success. If you believe you may have a problem with drugs or alcohol, help is available. Contact Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, or a trusted doctor or therapists for options in your area.
References
- Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide: The Dubious Practice of Detox
- University of Southern California HealthNow; Debunking Detox Diets; Carrie St. Michel
- "Yoga Journal"; Renewable Energy; Melanie Haiken
- UNC-Chapel Hill Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies: Types of Help for Alcohol and Drug Abuse
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