Ideally, we would all like to stay on track with our health goals all the time, but hey, that’s why it’s called the Festive Season! Whether you drank too much one night (or more), or consumed your body weight in pavlova; it’s safe to say you might be in need of a reset.
So, bring on a simple remedy that frees us of our sins … the ever popular detox diet. A pricey juice cleanse, a super restrictive diet or a tea regimen, features like clockwork in magazines and websites every January, promising rapid weight loss while getting rid of so called “toxins.” But is it truly that simple?
Not to burst your bubble, but science does not back the idea that following a specific diet for a few days will rid the body of toxins.
Here’s the thing: Toxins are real, but you don’t get them only from what you eat. Your body absorbs toxins from pollution, pesticides, additives in food, and chemicals in cleaning products. The good news is that your body has the power to heal itself over time. Our bodies are designed with mechanisms to filter out toxins all on its own and is better at detoxifying than any juice or tea will ever be.
In fact, the body is constantly busy with detoxification: That’s why you have a liver, kidneys, and a digestive system. However, that being said, there are things you can do to amp up your body’s detoxifying super powers.
When it comes to your diet, there’s no harm in cutting back on alcohol and sugar for a few weeks if you’ve been overindulging. If you want to maintain optimal health, then the best approach is a balanced diet with at least five portions of different fruit and vegetables per day, plenty of wholegrain cereals, lean meat and fish, and low fat dairy products. And if you’re looking to lose weight, well, then consider reducing portion sizes.
Also, remember to get your sweat on. The body flushes out toxins as you sweat, simple as that. Go for a brisk morning walk or schedule a high energy workout class if you’re up for it. Oh, and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! This is the easiest and surest way to help your kidneys and liver flush out the toxins from your body. If drinking water seems like a chore, find innovative ways to up your intake – lemon water or green tea might do the trick.
The concept of detox diets is irrational and unscientific. When you starve your body of calories your body will build up chemicals called ketones. These chemicals can result in nausea, dehydration weakness and irritability. Further, a prolonged lack of protein causes your body to break down its own muscles and can compromise your immune system.
Experts agree that avoiding known toxins like tobacco and alcohol, while maintaining a healthy diet and daily exercise routine to support the body’s detoxification system, is the secret to healthy living.
It’s time to give our bodies a little salutary break after the end-of-year excess to boost energy levels and a sense of well-being.
Happy, healthy New Year everyone!
Source: nhs.uk, lifefood.eu, womenshealthmag.com, kokilabenhospital.com, sprigandvine.in, theguardian.com, healthline.com
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.
