Detoxification is an alternative medicine
approach and aims at eliminating ‘toxins’ from the body.
Toxins are accumulated harmful substances that exert undesirable
effects on individual’s health. Detoxification can be achieved with the help of
saunas, massages, colonic irrigation, bowel enemas and diet.
A diet
plan that helps to remove toxins and poisons from the body is referred to as a
detox diet.
It is also called as a
cleansing diet. Accumulation of toxins has hazardous effects on the
body and therefore it is imperative to get rid of them.
The idea is to
eat pure and natural foods that aid the functioning of the lymph,
kidneys and liver; and avoid all foods that hinder the smooth functioning of
the body. While on detox diet it is advised to eat more fruits and vegetables,
drink plenty of water (1.5 to 2 liters) and cut down on junk food and processed
foods. Caffeine and alcohol consumption is cut down. Therefore, detox diet also
aids in weight loss.
However, there is not enough evidence to prove
that detox diets work. Many detox diet plans are nutritionally insufficient.
Poor nutrition can lead to muscle loss, fatigue and irritability.
Detox diet for a while is harmless but long term use
of this diet plan can cause complications.