Subscribe RSS FeedMedifast weight loss planGoing for a detox? Expect quite a few brows rise at the very mention of it; the word is still a taboo since most relate it to substance abuse. All that reaction makes detox – or, detoxification – a little daunting thought for us. But a detox could be as plain as a body cleanse that you undertake for getting rid of accumulated metabolic wastes. Let this be the new ‘spring cleaning’ this year.
Why detox?
A detoxified body looks, feels and functions healthier than those with blocked intercellular and inter-body cleansing mechanisms. An overload of toxins thus takes its tolls on the organs, slowing down their functions and that eventually clogs up the system even more. Blame it upon junk/fast foods (sugar, sugar), lifestyles promoting little activity (there goes the lymphatic drainage) or environmental factors (air pollution, pesticides et all), it ends up bringing toxicity up to the brim. However, reduction and then, complete removal of these toxins are possible; it is through a 7 day detox diet.
The detox diet cleanses and soothes the digestive system first; gradually moving to the body’s other lifesaving mechanisms (immune, urinogenital, circulatory, respiratory and finally, the nerves). Bones and muscles also get their own shares of benefits. The cleansing part is immediately followed by the diet components stimulating the organs; this gives back the organs their lost efficiencies. As a whole, the metabolism revs up higher; the energy levels increase, skin textures change for the better and weight loss becomes imminent.
Detox truths
But then again, just a week-long detox diet or sticking to anti cellulite foods alone is not going to cut the mustard. Think them as catalysts; foods are agents that speed up a process. Exercises are vital since the lymphatic system (the body’s own drainage system) depends on the physical movements for their efficacy; besides, exercises help develop new cells, to feed which, more fat is broken and more testosterone, the muscles stay responsible for an increased production of it. Testosterone is a natural lipolysis-inducing agent, so fat goes down by volumes.
“Let’s detox!”
To start with, it’s limiting exposures to toxins. But a sudden, drastic cutoff is often detrimental than good to the body; tapering down is must. So reducing the intake of nicotine, alcohol, caffeine and the likes must be matched with thoroughly washed (whole), fresh, organic foods; it works better with organic cosmetics and household items. Aspirins and Acetaminophen also go under the blade, as well as any alcohol. However, wine is okay in limited quantities, after a complete detoxification. And, plenty of water.
The detox diet is best if there are whole-foods present; they comprise essential substances (vitamins, minerals, enzymes etc.) to aid the natural cleansing. That includes fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meat, fish, probiotics (e.g. natural yogurt) pulses and grains (e.g. brown rice; it scrapes toxins off of the alimentary canal). Along with, colas and other flavors must be replaced with detox juices (with pulp) (e.g. carrot or lime juice with a bit of ginger; the beta-carotene in carrots produces Vitamin A, an important antioxidant while the vitamin C in lemons charges up the immune system. Ginger stimulates secretion of gastric juices). And nothing like an easy access to Dandelion roots; the lecithin stimulates the liver’s functions while its diuretic properties flush out the toxins.
Overall, it’s a great experience and a great high.
Tags: detox diets, digestive system, toxins