As promised, I am back and will be talking more about DETOX DIETS. Continuing from my last blog, I am going to be telling you about the different Types of Detox and side-effects of detox diets and who should not be on a detox.

Talking of the Types of detox there are plenty out there that is spoken of and tried, every dietitian has her logic of a detox and works with it for her clients – but most of them boil down to low calorie – mostly liquid or fruit based plans.

5 most spoken of and tried are:

• The Master Cleanse also called the Lemonade diet.
• Juice fasting
• Commercial cleanse programs (uses specially designed protein powders, vitamins and nutrients)
• Raw food detox diet
• Ayurvedic detox diet also called Pancha Karma.

All forms of detox diet aims at giving the body some WELL-DESERVED REST, especially by eliminating caffeine and all types of preserved food; giving the body high fiber foods and water that draw out and eliminate toxins. 

During DETOX, the emphasis is on reducing acidity and mucus in the body to create a more alkaline environment. By cutting down the outside food filled with preservatives, the liver is stimulated to work well to drive out the toxins. Drinking plenty of liquids through this phase further compliments the elimination through the kidneys and skin.

While a detox can do you good, it is important to know the signs that indicate that you might have to stop and restart a little later,

• A few have headaches within the first few days, especially if they are addicted to caffeine. In such cases it is suggested that one gradually decreases the amount of caffeine prior to starting the detox where you have to do without it.
• Some people have even reported to have excessive diarrhoea, which can cause dehydration and loss of electrolytes. On the other hand some people feel constipated due to an increase in the intake of fiber, without adequate increase in water intake.
• Sometimes people on detox are found to be tired, irritated and hungry because the diet is lower on calories and mostly just liquids through the day.

If any of the side effects tend to last longer than a day then it is advised to get off the detox and meet a nutritionist before you resume again.

Also, a detox diet should not be advocated for over 2 weeks as in the long term it can result in nutritional deficiencies.

While there the reported side effects, A Detox Diet is not advised for a few, these include pregnant or nursing women & children. Also those with anemia and any other medical condition including diabetes or cancer should avoid getting on a detox diet. 

It is always advisable to consult your nutritionist if not at least a qualified health professional before you get yourself into a detox mode.

So while the idea behind a detox is to clear the body off the toxins from the food we eat & environment we live in, more often than not, it has been seen that at the end of a detox people also feel much better, lighter and much more energetic. 

After all, the body that serves all your demands surely deserves a spring – clean to stay at its best and keep you at YOUR BEST!.