Modified Detox Diet - The Standard Process

Detoxification, or detox, diets are purported to remove toxins from the body. The exact requirements for a detox diet vary but the process often involves a strict fasting period. You can modify a detox diet in any number of ways, but you still should follow some general guidelines.

Identification

In most detox diets, the first phase is a period of fasting or severe calorie restriction. Many of these diets recommend that you only drink specific concoctions for a certain period. For example, the Master Cleanse instructs followers to drink lemon juice mixed with maple syrup, water and cayenne pepper as well as a laxative tea for the first 10 days. Other plans recommend different fluids but all involve a very low-calorie diet. Some detox plans include a colon cleanse, supposedly to further remove toxins from your body.

Modifications

You can change a detox diet in numerous ways to fit your lifestyle. For instance, you may want to include low-calorie foods, such as vegetables, lean protein and whole grains or other unprocessed foods. You also might opt to forgo a colon cleanse or other supplements, instead focusing on eating healthy. Some detox dieters simply eliminate processed foods and refined sugars.

Research

There has been limited scientific research on the effects of detoxification diets. Certain components of these types of diets, such as reducing caloric intake and increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables, are boons for any type of diet program. There are health benefits that many supporters attribute to detoxification diets, such as fewer headaches, better complexion, weight loss and less bloating. However, critics note that the body naturally removes toxins effectively and does not need detoxification.

Precautions

Consult your physician before you start any new diet, especially a detox program. Certain people should not try this type of diet because of health concerns; they include children, pregnant women and diabetics. Because detox diets usually severely limit calories, strenuous exercise should be avoided while using the plan. Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre recommends that dieters make long-lasting changes, such as reducing sodium, caffeine and alcohol consumption and eating a more plant-based diet, instead of resorting to a short-term detox diet.

By Ireland Wolfe

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