Detox diets are all the craze. They are widely used as a way to flush out toxins and shed some unwanted pounds.
Detox cleanses/diets often eliminate solid foods and replace them with drinks like water with lemon, maple syrup and cayenne pepper; green tea; or freshly squeezed fruit and vegetable juices. Cleanses can last from a day to a month. You can also buy certain detox cleanses and mixes to drink.
But the question that always comes first- is this a healthy way to lose weight?
It seems like any diet has it’s pros and cons, and detox diets are no different.
PROS
There can be benefits of detox diets. As long as you are doing it with the proper approach.
The main pro is obviously that you are removing toxins and built up junk in your body– which can help you lose weight and give your body a ‘clean slate’ so to speak.
It can also help you identify if you have any food sensitivities by eliminating certain foods for several days, then gradually reintroducing potential trigger foods.
If you are doing a juice cleanse or raw food cleanse- you can benefit from the increase in vitamins or minerals– which is especially beneficial for those that find it hard to get enough fruit and veggies.
It is also easier to commit to as it is not a long term diet plan. Most nutrition experts advise that a slow and steady approach to weight loss and healthy eating is best. While short term-detox diets may not provide sustainable results- it can help some people get on track to better nutrition.
You CAN lose weight. If you stay committed to the diet and do it properly- there is a good chance you will shed a few unwanted pounds!
CONS
Detox diets tend to be very low in calorie intake which can affect the way our bodies function. Calories are like fuel for our bodies- so very little of them can leave you with little energy for the day-and may also disrupt your metabolic rate and blood glucose levels.
These diets are also often low protein– which isn’t serious on a short term level but if you already have a protein deficiency- it can be very hard on your body.
You maaaay need to stay close to a bathroom. Detox diets are meant to essentially flush things out of you- almost quite literally. Which can disrupt your day if you are doing it while working etc. Not only that- but it can come with some cramping and bloating as well.
If you have a health condition– it may not be the best idea for you. Such as diabetes, as some of the detox diets may include a higher carbohydrate intake than you may be used to- which can cause issues.
Short term. Since it is a short term diet- it will not help you to continue to lose weight UNLESS you change your overall habits. It can help with some pounds-but you still have to do some leg work after. Eating well and exercising.
So there are pros and cons to consider before deciding if a detox diet is best for you.
If you do decide to start a detox diet- there are some foods that are known to be natural detoxifiers for the body.
Such as:
- Apples
- Beets
- Avocados
- Flaxseeds
- Cabbage
- Cranberries
- Blueberries
- Celery
Or- if you are looking for beverages that may be helpful for a detox:
- Water and Lemon Water
- Lime Juice
- Green Tea
- Orange Juice
- Beet Juice
- Fruit Smoothies
Weigh the options and see what is best suited for you and your lifestyle!
Resources:
https://www.ecowatch.com/15-best-foods-for-detoxing-your-body-1882157131.html
https://www.webmd.com/diet/a-z/detox-diets#:~:text=Not%20only%20are%20detox%20diets,they%20may%20be%20quite%20dangerous.
https://www.verywellfit.com/pros-and-cons-of-the-detox-diet-3973821
