Introduction
Traditionally, the term "detox" has referred to the process of eliminating harmful chemicals from the body, such as during drug and alcohol detox, or in the treatment of the ingestion or exposure to a poisonous substance. Within the last decade, alternative medicine and supplement companies have taken the term "detox" into a whole new field. Promoters of detox diets claim these diet programs can eliminate harmful substances from the body that are introduced through the foods you choose to eat and the environment you live in. In turn, promoters of these diets claim you will have greater levels of energy, relief from chronic conditions and may even lose weight. Although diet detoxes can vary in exact direction and their products used, each has a similar process to reach the final detox goal.
Fasting
Most detox diets start with a period of fasting. This could be a period of as few as 24 hours or as long as three days. Fasting is believed to redirect the energy typically used for digestion into the cleansing organs and processes of the body, such as the detoxifying actions performed by the liver and kidneys. You should not fast if you have cancer, HIV/AIDS or diabetes. Women who are pregnant also should not fast.
Food Choices
Detox diets revolve around eliminating foods that introduce toxins or other unhealthy substances to the body. These foods can include non-organic fruits and vegetables, due to possible exposure to pesticides, as well as growth hormone-enhanced meats or dairy products. Packaged foods that use chemicals and preservatives are also typically avoided. Detox diets can vary in food intake levels from exclusively liquids to a raw organic diet of plant-based foods.
Liquids
Liquids, especially water, play one of the most important roles of a detox diet. Promoters of detox diets claim the use of liquids (such as fruit and vegetable juices) can help flush the body of built up toxins. According to Harvard Health Publications, certain detox diets (such as the popular Master Cleanse) may use liquids, such as salt water or laxative teas, to increase bowel movements. Laxative products can cause dehydration if not used carefully, so watch your fluid intake when following a detox diet that recommends their use.
Supplements
Supplements are also a common part of diet detox plans. Supplements often contain additional herbs, enzymes, vitamins and minerals that are meant to help flush out the system and restore balance to the body. Common ingredients in detox supplements include burdock root, echinacea, cayenne, fiber, green tea and certain enzymes (lipase, amylase and protease).
Warnings
Although detox diets maintain regular popularity, health experts, such as Roger Clemens, PharmD, from the University of Southern California, claim that these diets go against the scientific and medical principles of what makes a diet beneficial and healthy. These principles include moderation, balance and variety. Other risks of detox diets include possible health problems related to a deficiency of essential nutrients,such as proteins and carbohydrates, as well as a lack of calories, such as with detox plans that drop daily caloric intake below 600 calories.
Member Comments