Detoxification is a bodily process that rids health threatening toxins from our bodies. These are then excreted. Harmful toxic substances include metals such as lead, mercury, nickel and aluminum. Our body’s detoxification tools consist of the liver, lungs, colon, gallbladder, kidneys, skin, lymph and blood. Undergoing detox can assist your body to eliminate toxins and waste in order for your organs and other systems to work more efficiently.
There are many kinds of detox programs and you can choose the one that suits you. Your main aim is to address any problems you are experiencing such as constipation, allergies, fatigue and certain skin problems. When you detox, your body has a chance to recover from the pollutants you subject it to.
Make sure your doctor sanctions your detox cleanse. For some people on certain medications, a detox diet is not recommended. You must firstly be totally geared up to start the diet. If you view your body as a temple, you owe it to your health to keep it pure. A 7 to 10 day body cleanse is recommended.
Gradually start weaning yourself off nicotine, caffeine and foods that are over processed. Start stocking up on good quality fruit and vegetables. Certain nuts and seeds are permitted in a detox program. You should have a liquidizer to make your own pure juices.
To avoid unpleasant side effects, step up your fluid intake to help flush out the toxins. You will soon start to enjoy eating raw foods! The first 2 to 3 days can be difficult as your body learns to adjust to your new eating regime, so keep busy to avoid temptation.
You can enjoy fresh fruit salads, mixed salads with sprouts, carrots, brussel sprouts, cabbage and other vegetables. Also, nibble on almonds, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, which are all low in fat. Naturally dried fruit is also recommended in small portions.
Munch on carrots, broccoli and celery sticks if you are feeling hungry. Drink vegetable and fruit juices made by yourself so that you know they don’t contain salt, sugar or preservatives. You can make a soup of various vegetables, which is also nutritious and delicious.
You also need some mild exercise each day, which will help further to eliminate toxins. A long leisurely walk is good, as is swimming and bicycle riding. If you can, have a full body massage, as this also helps flush out toxins by stimulating the lymphatic system.
There are many different detox supplements that contain natural ingredients such herbs and certain plant extracts. Milk thistle is believed to cleanse the liver and rejuvenate the gallbladder. Other supplements recommended are Vitamins C and E, calcium and Vitamin B6.
The amount of fluid one consumes on a body cleanse has a huge positive effect. With the raw food, the body has a chance to regenerate itself. It can often mean that you are able to give up or cut down on harmful addictions, such as too much alcohol, nicotine and sugar. You will feel physically and mentally recharged after the body cleanse. Aim to repeat it at least 3 – 4 times a year.