If you are one of the millions, who are always feeling sluggish, or you think you're always full because your food has settled in your stomach, undigested.
If you think you're fat and need to lose weight, or if you think that you've ingested more than the allowed preservatives and additives into your body and your liver ís starting to show symptoms of abuse, then it's time for you to go on a Detox program.
Detox or detoxification is the process of neutralizing or eliminating toxins from the body. Detox plans may come in different forms other than regular exercise, body scrubs, spa massages, or yoga and meditation, the most common way to detox your body perhaps is to go on a detox diet.
A detox diet is a program that minimizes the chemicals ingested into the body. It highlights food like vitamins and antioxidants that the body needs for detoxification. It also involves taking in of food that will aid in the elimination of toxins like high fiber food and water.
It generally suggests a high intake of fresh vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts and lots of fluids, while cutting down on caffeine, alcohol, yeast and sugars.
So why a detox diet? If you're a regular fast food chain eater, you've probably ingested many fat-soluble chemicals contained in the French fries, cheeseburgers, twisters and soft drinks you've consumed. An overload of these chemicals in the body can lead to illness and conditions like liver malfunction, kidney problems, hormonal imbalance, nutritional deficiencies and inefficient metabolism.
Some of the most common symptoms of these illnesses are the usual fatigue, poor skin and low tolerance to pain.
By going on a detox diet, people should improve their energy, have clearer and fairer skin, a regular bowel movement, an improved metabolism and digestion, as well as increased concentration.
Generally, a good detox equals a greater all around wellness and a better well-being.
A word of caution though, before anyone is allowed to take on a detox diet, pregnant women or those who are nursing are cautioned not to go on such plans as they need the necessary nutrient for nursing.
Also unless recommended by a doctor, people with anemia, eating disorders, heart disease, low immunity, low blood pressure, ulcers, cancer, or who are underweight, suffering from alcohol, and drug dependency should not try a detox diet.
Furthermore, such detox diet programs should be properly planned with your doctor and a nutritionist.
Other Things You Need to Know
Some side effects may occur within the first few days of starting a detox diet. There is the likelihood of headaches and a general feeling of weakness as the body is adjusting to the change in food intake.
So it is recommended to start your diet plan gradually or on Fridays when you won't be doing much physical activity or requiring much energy. Others may experience diarrhea as the body eliminates the toxins, so take care not to be dehydrated, and drink plenty of water.
Take note that detox programs should not be done for a long time. They are normally recommended to be done at least one to two times a year, and should be done during the warm months.
If you're thinking of getting started, make sure you consult a doctor or a nutritionist. Read up on detox diets and seek advice from the experts. Remember: Too much is bad. After all, you're doing it to improve your health, not ruin it!
Also see Home Remedies For Detoxing Your Body
Written by,
Dwight Obey, Independent AdvoCare Distributor
This article is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is not to be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice or any doctors recommendation. Prior to beginning any weight loss program, individuals must consult a physician for proper diagnosis and/or treatment. Results may vary by each individual while working out, or utilizing any of the products mentioned in this article.
