What Is a Detox?

Each year, millions of people perform seasonal cleanings to rid their house of clutter, so why not do the same for your body? Whether you’re feeling bloated or irregular, are looking to get healthy and change your diet, or simply want to kick-start a weight-loss program before beginning a new exercise regimen, a detox may be for you.

According to Dr. Norman Walker, author of Colon Health, “The very best of diets can be no better than the very worst if the sewage system of the colon is clogged with a collection of waste and corruption.” The basic detoxification, a type of colon cleanse, should improve digestion, bowel movements, and liver and kidney functions. This will allow your body to more efficiently process the nutrients it needs, consequently making for a healthier body.

	If you find yourself a little happier from a detox, imagine what a full-blown diet change and exercise program can do.

You can do a detox simply by following a dietary restriction plan—essentially, changing your diet and cutting out the waste (see below) or you can turn to one of several methods including: water fasting, Gerson Therapy, body cleansing kits, and the Master Cleanse.

What are the Benefits of Detoxification?

Homeopathic specialists and some traditional Western doctors recommend undergoing a detox to relieve a number of common, recurring ailments that may be caused by high toxicity levels in the body. These include, but are not limited to:

• Headaches
  
• Skin problems
  
• Bad breath
  
• Body odor
  
• Depression
  
• Bloating or gas
  
• Constipation
  
• Low energy

After completing a detox, devotees report more consistent bowel movements, a significant reduction in bloating, easier breathing, and increased vitality. Even waking in the morning gets easier. More importantly, one’s outlook on life may seems brighter. In fact, the American Psychological Association reports that a positive outlook can actually extend one’s life, so it shouldn’t be surprising to find the converse true: a happier you by way of a healthier you. And if you find yourself a little happier from a detox, imagine what a full-blown diet change and exercise program can do. Stay on that detox “high” and make the positive life changes that are necessary to create a healthier body and mind.

Before trying a detox, check with your physician to ensure that the homeopathic herbs and supplements, which may be included as part of your detox program, don’t adversely react with prescribed medications. The purpose of a detox is to improve heath, not endanger it.

Nutrition for a Better Detox

Here are dietary suggestions to follow during a detox.

Diet Dos

• Plenty of fruits and vegetables (at least five servings a day)
  
• Lean meats like poultry
  
• Fish rich in Omega 3 fatty acids like albacore tuna and salmon
  
• Whole grain breads and pastas, brown rice, or rice cakes
  
• Decaffeinated teas or coffee
  
• Nuts and legumes
  
• Vinegar/olive oil dressing instead of a fatty, creamy one

Diet Don'ts

• Smoking and drinking (you’re detoxing, remember?)
  
• Fried and fatty foods
  
• Sugars and high fructose corn syrups
  
• Dairy (limited amounts if you must)
  
• Caffeine (if you absolutely need that morning coffee kick-start, drink extra water)
  
• Red meats, lunch meats, and hot dogs
  
• Recreational drugs (a given)