Why do people try cleanses or detoxification diets?
They are very popular with claims to cleanse the blood and remove harmful toxins from the body. These diets are promoted for weight loss, circulation, relieving constipation, and improving energy levels.
Benefits and concerns of a cleanse or detox diet
Benefits
Increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables provides a boost in vitamin intake.
Identification of food intolerances through elimination and reintroduction.
Avoidance of processed foods.
Improved hydration with increased water intake.
Concerns
If the process involves greatly restricting dietary intake it can cause lethargy, and may disrupt blood sugar levels.
Gastrointestinal distress from juicing, laxative or enema use. If diarrhea is severe it could also lead to dehydration.
Lack of safety regulation on detox products used without scientific evidence of effectiveness.
What you need to know
The truth is the body naturally rids itself of toxins daily without intentionally going on a cleanse or detox diet program. This built-in detoxification system involves your digestive system, liver, kidneys, and skin. Why not focus on nourishing your body's natural defense with good nutrition and proper hydration instead?
You can give your body the best nutrition by eating real whole foods in place of highly processed ones. Aim to include fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes in your daily food choices. Think about your beverages. Water is the best for hydration. If you don't care for plain water try adding some fresh lemon as a natural flavor enhancer.
Best and Worst Foods for the body
Best | Worst |
Almonds | Alcohol |
Blueberries | Fatty Fried Foods |
Broccoli | Packaged Snack Foods |
Coffee | Salt |
Green Tea | Sugar |
Herbs and Spices | |
Oatmeal | |
Spinach | |
Water |
Tips to Decrease Toxin Exposure
Be sure to wash all produce with clean running water before eating.
Wash your hands with warm soapy water for a minimum of 20 seconds.
Use dinnerware made of ceramic, stoneware, porcelain, glass, bamboo, or wood instead of plastic (BPA), melamine, and ones with lead or cadmium glaze and paint.
Choose glass or stainless steel containers to drink from.
Reference websites: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/detox-cleanse and https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/detox-diets-101