A total body detox is intended to clear the body of all toxins to which it is exposed in daily life. Pollution, pesticides, processed foods, cleaning and personal care products and chemicals bombard the body every day. The liver, kidneys and lymphatic system are designed to help clear these contaminants and free radicals from the system---an all body detox intends to enhance this process. No scientific evidence supports the need for additional detox efforts, but detox advocates, such as Linda Page, N.D., Ph.D., and author of "Detoxification" report feelings of better health and energy.
Types
Many different methods for an all body detox exist. Prescriptions for an all body detox might include a total fast in which only water is ingested, a liquid diet that allows only freshly squeezed juices, or a whole foods diets emphasizing certain natural foods. A whole foods detox may or may not allow meat, but will likely emphasize raw fruits and vegetables containing significant antioxidants to clean free radicals from the system. Most detox diets ask that you refrain from all caffeine, alcohol and added sugars. A total body detox requires you to limit your exposure to man-made chemicals and stress---both of which also negatively affect the body.
The length of time you spend detoxifying is a matter of personal preference. Detox programs may last just 24 hours, like the Eat Stop Eat program which recommends this type of fast once or twice per week. Other programs offer prescriptions for three to seven days and sometimes as long as four weeks. The longest detox plans are usually the ones that focus on whole foods and provide adequate nutrition.
Benefits
A total body detox cleans the body from the inside out. If you follow a detox that includes nutritious, unprocessed foods, you then replace toxic elements with healthy nutrients to enhance wellness and protect against disease. Some people find a detox helps break their reliance on junk foods, stimulants (like caffeine) and sugar. CBS contributor and registered dietitian Keri Glassman says she sometimes recommends "detox" style diets featuring fruits and vegetables for three or four days to her own clients to help them better understand the food they are putting into their body and hopefully improve overall eating habits. Switching to natural cleaning and beauty products may improve skin health and eliminate allergies that were unknowingly attributed to exposure to chemicals. Including meditation and yoga practices helps calm the mind and spirit.
Considerations
An all body detox can be as drastic or benign as you choose. Be realistic about what types of changes you are willing to make---if you cannot give up your favorite mascara for a natural brand, accept your choice. If you do decide to embark on an all body detox, you might ease into the process slowly. Eliminating all sugar, caffeine and alcohol may initially cause headaches and irritability. The increased fiber from a higher intake of fruits and vegetables can cause digestive issues in the first few days. In order to limit exposure to stress, begin your detox when you have time off from work (or a slower schedule) and other intense social engagements.
Misconceptions
An all body detox may result in some weight loss, but this is not the main purpose of such a plan. Following an extreme detox plan, like one that includes only liquids, may result in temporary weight loss---but as CNN experts point out, it may cause harm if followed for any length of time. In your attempt to improve your health, you may actually create nutritional deficiencies and experience weakness and fatigue.
Warning
Certain populations should not follow detox diets that limit food intake. Children who are still growing, pregnant or nursing mothers, people with wasting diseases (like AIDS or tuberculosis), cancer patients and diabetics need complete nutrition. These people may follow a cleaner diet that includes more fruits and vegetables, but should be sure they are still getting adequate nutrition from protein and fats as well. Of course all populations will likely benefit from a reduced exposure to household chemicals and stress.
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