All You Want to Know About Detoxification Diet
The concept of detoxification is not a new phenomenon and has been practiced in many religions for hundreds of years in the form of religious fasting.
Naturopaths believe that the human body needs a spring clean once or twice a year with a detoxification (detox) diet. It is thought to aid the cleansing of the intestinal tract and rid the body of waste and the end products of metabolism, resulting in improved digestion, healthier skin and a general feeling of well being.
Despite its popularity in the nineties, there is no documented scientific evidence to suggest that detoxification diets cleanse and rejuvenate the human body. A large number of nutrition scientists argue that the body's complex antioxidant defense system is sufficiently equipped and is quite capable of eliminating toxins and waste products without the aid of short-term and unproven dietary practices.
On the other hand, naturopaths argue that extra dietary intervention such as a detox diet is necessary from time to time in order to counteract the effects of pollution, as well as remove the additives, impurities and toxicants that exist in today's foodstuffs.
Unsurprisingly, many people claim that following a detox regime leaves them feeling revitalized and increases their sense of wellbeing. Whether this is just a placebo effect or a real benefit from the so-called detoxification process remains to be verified.
As the detox diet is based on fruits and vegetables, it provides an adequate supply of the B-vitamins, folate and antioxidant vitamins such as vitamins C, E and beta-carotene, as well as some important nutrients such as potassium, which might exert some health benefit by reducing blood pressure.
The detox diet also tends to be high in both insoluble and soluble fiber, which helps regulate bowel movement, prevents constipation and reduces the risk of heart disease via its influence on plasma cholesterol levels.
Furthermore, a high intake of fruit and vegetables as well as beans and pulses is believed to strengthen the immune system, helping the body to fight infection and most importantly protecting us from developing some forms of cancer.
It is also true that the detox diet is likely to be low in fat and thus low in calories.
It is important to remember that detoxification diets are not suitable for children, pregnant and lactating women and the elderly, or during convalescence and postoperative states. It is equally important that anyone considering a detoxifying diet checks with his/her doctor in advance.
The regime should also be limited to no more than 2 weeks to avoid any possible adverse effects.
By and large, eating a healthy, well-balanced and varied diet, which is rich in raw vegetables, fresh fruits and has an adequate fluid intake, combined with regular exercise, is the best way of maintaining ongoing detoxification of the body.
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