Do You Need to Detox?
Detox Diets are another “latest craze,” another catch-phrase, another gimmick. Or are they? The concept of cleansing the body of built-up toxins is not new. These types of purifying practices have been around for centuries. As far back as 400 BC, ancient medicine gurus frequently recommended diets that cleansed the body of impurities by eliminating various food groups and emphasizing plant-based nutrition. There really isn’t anything new under the sun.
Modern day Detox Diets (DDs) promise a variety of benefits, including increased energy, clearer skin, improved digestive health, better mental focus, weight loss, prevention of chronic disease and overall better health. Let’s take a closer look at some of these potential benefits. The idea of cutting certain “hard to digest” foods in order to have energy to direct elsewhere is faulty. Digestion takes, at most, 10% of daily calories used - a very small amount. The need to purify toxins from foods is something the human body already does naturally.
Replacing ONE otherwise unhealthy meal with a nutrient-dense shake can be healthy and sensible. However, a long-term, liquid-only diet alone can leave the body without essential nutrients and dietary fiber. This is not good as it could lead to malnutrition and gastrointestinal complications. The positive results of DD are often backed by Hollywood starlets and the media who claim quick weight loss, brighter complexions and greater energy levels. The negatives about DD are less often in the spotlight, and range from irritability and fatigue to headaches and other aches and pains. Combining those symptoms with the gastronintestinal complications and you are one popular co-worker and family member during the DD process. They can alter metabolism and also gut integrity. If gut integrity is weakened, you could experience bloating, diarrhea, constipation and cramping when food is finally reintroduced.
There is little to no clinical research to suggest that anyone would benefit from Detox Diets, or that such diets really work. The human body is an amazing machine fully equipped with natural cleansers, and it does an excellent job of clearing out toxins as needed. Yep, there are no short cuts to your weight loss goals. The best ways to get there are still making smart lifestyle choices, taking small steps toward better health by eating from all of the recommended food groups, and exercising on a DAILY basis. Doesn’t that sound more fun than drinking a laxative-based liquid over a few days and having to bolt to the restroom and less fun to be around?
Enjoy Your Exercise. Enjoy Your Day.
