Detox Diets

Weight loss is only one of the benefits claimed for detox diets: many also promise to improve the skin, reduce cellulite, increase energy levels and promote a feeling of wellbeing.
A body boost
Detox diets are short-term plans, which are designed to be followed for a weekend or even up to a month, after which a maintenance programme may be recommended. The theory behind detox plans is that the body needs an extra boost to eliminate toxins or pollutants that have built up in the tissues; these could range from alcohol, caffeine and cigarette smoke to food additives and residues from medication.

What you can eat
The typical detox diet bans all refined and processed foods, meat and dairy products, caffeine and alcohol, and prescribes meals based on organic wholefoods, fruit and vegetables, nuts, seeds, juices and plenty of water. Many also recommend herbal drinks or vitamin and mineral supplements designed to improve the elimination of waste products through the liver, bowel, kidneys and skin.

Effects of dieting
Detox diets are all very low in calories, which can lead to rapid initial weight loss, mainly of water. This makes them a popular choice as a short-term ‘kick-start’ for a longer-term slimming plan. Some people who stick to a detox plan also report that they feel more in control and clear-headed. Less welcome side-effects include headaches, nausea, hunger and fatigue. For this reason it is often recommended that people relax at home for the first couple of days of a detox.

The mainstream medical view of detox plans is that they are unnecessary as the body has its own sophisticated and efficient systems for eliminating waste. Cutting down on alcohol and caffeine, giving up smoking, drinking plenty of water, eating fruit and vegetables and exercising regularly should be all the detox help the body needs.

Detox plans
Because they are so low in calories, detox plans are a form of’crash diet’ and should not be followed indefinitely. They are not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women or anyone with health problems.

Detox diets can kick-start a healthy eating plan or help get back on track, especially after
a period of over-eating, such as at Christmas.
There is no real basis in science for detox diets.
Weight loss will mainly be water and not sustained overtime.
Detox diets are not designed for long-term healthy eating.

Typical day’s eating

Breakfast
Herb tea
Fresh fruit smoothie with oats and honey

Lunch
Clear vegetable soup fr” Rice cakes
? Natural yogurt

Dinner Grilled tuna
? Vegetable stir-fry P Brown rice
? Fresh fruit

Drinks
Water
Decaffeinated tea

A herbal infusion is one way to start the day on a detox diet.