Whether it’s Kourtney
Kardashian, your boss or that kale-munching
hipster at the health food store, it seems like everyone is on some sort of
detox diet these days. Due to their immense popularity and the icky bloated feeling
that you’re experiencing as we speak, you are probably thinking about joining
the detox party. Although promises of losing 10 lbs. in 10 days, a purified body
and radiant skin are very appealing, it’s
important to do your research and consider how a detox diet can benefit your
mind, body and soul. Lucky for you, I’m here to
help! I have put together some pros and cons of detoxing to aid you in making
an educated decision regarding whether a detox is the right decision for you.
What is a
Detox?
Detox diets
(also known as cleanses) are all the rage, but if you’re just getting into
them you might be wondering, "what in the
world is detoxing all about, anyways?" Well, it’s a short-term change in
your diet designed to rid the body of toxins, such as preservatives, and improve overall health. From juice fasts targeting the
liver to vitality restoring fruit and vegetable detoxes, the market is filled
with an abundance of options to aid you in cleaning out your cluttered system.
Pros
Regardless of your
intentions, there are loads of good reasons to start detoxing. Some benefits
linked to detoxifying the body include:
·
Cutting-out the excess - If you’ve been looking for a way to recover
from your latest junk food bender, a detox can help eliminate processed foods
high in sugar and trans fats from your diet.
·
Feeling energized - After completing a cleanse, many claim to
have an increase in energy in addition to a rejuvenated mind.
·
Resorting digestive regularity - Detox diets rich in fibre, such as those
that include high amounts of fruits and vegetables, are known to improve digestive
functions.
·
Improving heart health - Research has shown that detoxes (particularly
The Lemon Diet) have the potential to assist in lowering blood pressure, which can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
·
Making a healthy lifestyle change - Cleanses are a great way to kick-start healthy
eating habits or a new weight-loss regime.
Cons
As with any
sudden dietary and lifestyle change, there are few pitfalls associated with
detoxing. Consider the cons heavily before deciding to cleanse your diet:
·
Lack of evidence supporting the
‘detoxifying’ claim - There
is a lack of scientific proof that cleanses actually remove toxins from the
body; however, research
suggests that coriander, succinic acid and citric pectin may be useful for
ridding toxic metals from the body.
·
Detoxes can be difficult - Purifying the body can be hard, especially
when you start to crave your favourite greasy, salty and sugary foods. Fortunately,
you tend to stop lusting over bacon and cupcakes by day five of a detox.
·
Not a solution for long-term weight-loss -
Contrary to what you may
have been told, detoxes are not intended for weight-loss. Any weight lost is
most likely water and it may be regained once the detox ends, depending on how
you transition back to your regular diet. In order to prevent weight gain, avoid
binge eating after detoxing.
·
Detox diets are not for everyone – Before starting a detox diet you should consult
a physician. It is recommended that pregnant or nursing women, the elderly and persons
with medical illnesses, such as diabetes, should not detox.
·
Detoxing can make you feel ill - You may experience headaches, fatigue and constipation
(if the detox is fibre-heavy) until your body adjusts to the abrupt change in
your diet.
In the End…
Detox diets
are by no means quick fixes or replacements for consistent healthy eating and exercise.
If, after weighing the pros and cons, you decide to begin detoxing, make sure
to choose one that is the right fit for you and your lifestyle. It's also
important to always listen to your body and your instincts—it’s okay to end a detox
early if it is negatively impacting your work and social life or if it has you feeling
absolutely miserable.
Are you
thinking about trying a detox or cleanse, or have you already taken the plunge?
Share your thoughts and questions below!
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