Your Weight! Your Health! Your Skin!

There is much debate in the medical field concerning the effectiveness of detox programs.  Some argue that since the benefits of a detox cannot be tangibly measured, they should be discarded altogether.  However, most people who undergo a detox report improved energy levels and overall health.  I performed a month-long full body detox and found that I had more energy, slept better and felt healthier after finishing the program.

You put numerous toxins into your body daily.  Even if your diet is not high in junk food, your body is constantly being exposed to toxins.  Soft drinks, sugars, artificial sweeteners, alcohol and caffeine are just a few toxins regularly consumed.  Perhaps you have a diet rich in fresh fruits, veggies and lean meats.  Have you considering buying organic?  If not you are still being exposed to toxins since these foods are often artificially enhanced and exposed to various pesticides and fertilizers.

The idea behind detox is that your body’s systems will run more efficiently if these toxins are removed, therefore improving your overall health.

How a Detox Works

A detox lasts for a specified amount of time and usually includes a strict diet along with a supplement which helps remove the toxins from the body.  Most detox programs gradually restrict foods that can be toxic, including sugar, meat, dairy, grains, alcohol and caffeine.  During a short time during the detox, the person is instructed to eat mainly organic fruits and vegetables.  Some sort of supplement is also taken to help remove wastes from the body.  A full body detox can last anywhere from a week to a month.

Benefits of Completing a Detox

When a detox is done properly, it has the potential to eliminate harmful wastes from the body which make a person sluggish and more prone to illness.  A detox can also assist weight loss since the removal of toxins from the body puts less stress on the liver, allowing this organ to aid more with digestion which speeds up your metabolism.  Proponents of detox suggest that a proper detox can boost the function of the lymphatic, renal, digestive and circulatory systems.  Many people who have completed a detox claim to feel more energetic and alert, to sleep more restfully and to have stronger immunity than before.

Potential Side Effects of a Detox

Just like medicines, the same detox may not work for everyone.  It is important to find a detox that works with your body and you feel comfortable with.  An improper detox can cause headaches, nausea, stomach pain and increased fatigue.  It is important to find an appropriate one and to consult a physician before and during the program.

Detox, in simply terms, is getting rid of the toxins that are in our bodies. There are different body organs that are used for this purpose and the main ones are the lymph glands, the kidneys, the colon, the lungs, the liver, the skin and the blood. The toxins in our bodies cause the body to be susceptible to illnesses and allergies among other things.

Some of the benefits of detox are:

• A body free of toxins will have a stronger immune system.
• A body detox can help you shed unwanted pounds. Toxins make it difficult to get rid of stubborn fat
• Because detox cleanses the body off toxins, detox can add years to your life.
• With detox, you can have a healthier skin, which is a plus when it comes to aging
• A detox free body will reduce your body being sensitive to certain foods

There are other benefits to a toxic free body, bottom line is if your body is rid of toxins, you will experience better health and you will feel better.

There are lots of programs that can help you with detoxing your body, but let’s look at some of the foods you can have in your nutrition that can help with your detox:

• Garlic. Yes the smell can be repulsive but the benefits of consuming it are amazing.
• Lemons. Lemons have a lot of vitamin C and vitamin C is great for detox. You can incorporate this when you drink your 8 glasses of water.
• Green tea. Green tea is an awesome antioxidant, and  it will also help you with your weight loss
• Broccoli. Just stock up on this
• Fruits. They have vitamin C, need I say more?

There are other foods that are good for detox but this is a great list to start with.

If you are going to embark on a detox program, ensure you drink lots of water and incorporate exercise into it. The benefits of a toxic free body, a well hydrated body and a body that is active are phenomenal.

If you are thinking of embarking into a detox program, see the Master Cleanse Program.