According to Science Daily a “detox diet is a dietary regimen involving a change in consumption habits in an attempt to detoxify the body by removal of toxins or other contaminants.” Detox diets vary in intensity and duration and can range from total starvation fasts to simpler food modifications. While there are many kinds of detox diets, most detox diets typically involve at least one of the following:
- Fasting for 1–3 days.
- Drinking fresh fruit and vegetable juices, smoothies, water, and tea.
- Drinking only specific liquids, such as salted water or lemon juice.
- Eliminating foods high in heavy metals, contaminants, and allergens.
- Taking supplements or herbs.
- Avoid all allergenic foods, then slowly reintroduce them.
- Using laxatives, colon cleanses, or enemas.
- Exercising regularly.
- Completely eliminating alcohol, coffee, cigarettes, and refined sugar.
A detox diet encourages your body to expel any built-up toxins you are harboring in your organs and tissues. When done correctly a diet can stimulate your liver, kidney, and colon, which are the primary organs for removing toxins from your body, and increase their efficiency and effectiveness during the detox, as well as after the detox diet has been completed.
Adverse Effects
Not all detox diets will work for everyone, and it is helpful to be aware of the adverse signs and symptoms that may indicate your detox diet is effective. Common unwanted symptoms you may develop as the result of undergoing a detox diet could include, but are not limited to, any combination of the following examples:
- You are moodier than normal and/ or are experiencing increased irritability.
- Your complexion is suffering, and you develop acne breakouts.
- You feel fatigued.
- You have digestive issues (e.g., bloating, nausea, gas, etc.).
- You are unable to achieve restful sleep.
- You experience frequent headaches.
- You are at increased risk of kidney failure.
- You develop vitamin and nutrient deficiencies.
Several aspects of detox diets (e.g., avoiding environmental toxins, exercising, eating nutritious food, drinking water, limiting stress, etc.) can help to enhance your health and wellness. However, certain components of detox diets (e.g., fasting for long periods, restricting calories heavily, and taking certain dietary supplements) can lead to adverse health effects, such as nutrient deficiencies, weakness, mood changes, dehydration, and more. Further, it is important to bear in mind that the body is well-equipped to naturally eliminate toxins and does not necessarily require adhering to a specific diet to rid the body of toxins. Maintaining a varied and balanced diet can not only help to remove toxins from the body but can also provide the nutrients needed to remain healthy and enhance one’s overall wellbeing.
For Information and Support
Substance abuse and addiction can be incredibly dangerous and can result in severe short and long-term consequences. If you or someone you know is suffering from substance abuse or addiction, please get help as soon as possible. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. There is no reason to go through this alone, and we are here to help. Please feel free to reach out to us for further information or with any questions regarding substance abuse or addiction. We are available anytime via telephone at: 213-389-9964, or you can always email us at: info@friendlyhousela.org.
