Fat Detox Diet

Fat Detox Diet
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A diet high in unhealthy fats may increase the risk of weight gain, obesity and serious diseases, including heart disease and stroke. In particular, saturated and trans fats contribute to health risks by increasing plaque buildup in the arteries, contributing to atherosclerosis. Detox diets are intended to cleanse the body of accumulated toxins and waste products that lead to sicknesses, lethargy and excess weight. According to MayoClinic.com, there is little evidence that detox diets are effective. However, a diet plan that is nutritionally balanced and medically approved may assist with decreasing fat storage in the body by improving digestive and organ functioning to eliminate toxins and waste.

Eliminate Processed Foods

A healthy detox diet should eliminate processed foods that have been refined and stripped of their nutrients. Processed foods are typically high in fats, refined sugars and sodium, which slow down digestive processes and overload the liver and kidneys. Foods high in fat and sugar also increase total daily caloric intake that may lead to weight gain if not burned off. Avoid foods such as candy bars, ice creams, chips and packaged granola bars in addition to many canned foods such as soups, which have added sugars and preservatives.

Drink Water

According to TimeForTheNewYou.com, Dr. Mehmet Oz of "The Dr. Oz" television show recommends drinking eight to 10 glasses of water per day. Water is a healthy detoxing agent as it has no calories, no fat and no sugars. It aids in hydrating the body, which prevents the risks of dehydration during a detox, leading to fatigue, headaches and difficulty concentrating. Furthermore, water may ward off hunger by filling you up to prevent overeating. In addition to plain water, clear-based broths and herbal teas also contribute to total daily water intake.

Fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables should form the foundation of a fat detox diet meal plan. Produce is rich in essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals, which aid in normal body functioning, hormonal balance and protection against disease. According to AnnLouise.com, official website of Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D, author of "Fat Flush for Life," produce rich in sulfur, including radishes and onions, aid in fat metabolism and digestion. Vegetables from the cabbage family also convert fat-soluble toxins to water-soluble substances for more efficient elimination.

Fiber

Fiber-rich foods are emphasized on a fat detox diet. Fiber is the undigested part of plant foods that passes through the body for elimination. Along the way, it assists in the removing toxins and undigested waste materials for removal. Gittleman recommends fiber-rich flaxseeds or psyllium while detoxing to improve digestive processes and decrease gastrointestinal upsets such as constipation, bloating and flatulence. Other fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables and whole-grains such as whole-grain brown rice, quinoa, buckwheat and amaranth.

References

Article reviewed by Christine Brncik Last updated on: Jul 5, 2011

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