Detox Diet Plans
In recent years there has been a lot of hype in the media on the subject of detox diet plans because many health benefits are linked to them. Detox diets aim to rid the body of toxins and control the damage done by free radicals. They are thought to help with weight loss, reduce bloating, get rid of skin blemishes and reduce the appearance of cellulite and wrinkles. Sensible detox diet plans can also boost energy levels and restore the overall health of an individual.
Easy Does It
There are numerous different kinds of detox diet. Most nutritionists recommend milder detox diet plans that eliminate certain unhealthy substances but do not cause any adverse side effects. For instance, you could follow a plan that comprises cutting red meat, caffeine, sugar and alcohol from your diet. Alternatively you eliminate all processed foods and stick to lean meat, fish, low fat milk, freshly squeezed juices and organic produce.
Specific Results
Some detox diet plans are geared towards specific results. For example, the liver is the first organ in the body to suffer the adverse effects caused by a build up of toxins. Therefore some people periodically go on a liver detox diet. This kind of diet comprises eating only organic food such as lean meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, herbs and spices. It also involves cutting out caffeine and alcohol and packing in foods, spices and supplements such as broccoli, seaweed, cabbage, radishes, dandelion, milk thistle and turmeric.
Extreme Measures
Some people habitually follow an extreme form of detox diet plan. They take severe measures such as fasting and drinking only purified water for three days or eating only unprocessed fruits and vegetables for a period of three or four weeks. Although people who follow this kind of severe detox diet can lose a significant amount of weight very rapidly, it is very difficult to stick to and may end up doing more harm than good in the long term.
The Risks Involved
Any detox diet plan that involves cutting out certain essential nutrients, vitamins or minerals is not suitable to follow for more than a maximum of three or four days at a time. Eliminating certain essential nutrients for an extended period is dangerous because can cause numerous deficiencies and health problems.
Detox diet plans are not suitable for everybody. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding a baby should not follow a detox diet plan that involves anything more than giving up cigarettes, alcohol and caffeine. People with certain health conditions should also avoid detox diet plans. For instance if you suffer from diabetes, anemia or low blood pressure then this type of diet is not appropriate for you. Before starting any kind of detox diet consult your doctor.