Why go on a DETOX diet?

As we saw in the previous presentation, the particularities of the different Detox meal plans vary quite a lot, but in general, they recommend a diet rich in raw vegetables and fruits, water, medicinal plants and other supplements. We explain that although their main objective is not weight loss, (but the elimination of waste, impurities and toxins, in order to improve the functioning of our body); they also contribute in a healthy way to the loss of some kilos.

The liver, kidneys, lymphatic system, intestines, lungs, blood and skin perform detoxification functions, however the levels of air and water pollution; the use of chemicals; excessive consumption of trans fats, sugar, coffee, tobacco, alcohol and refined foods, overload the organs of detoxification, causing a small part of these toxins are not eliminated and accumulate in our body.

Although there is little scientific evidence of the effectiveness of detox diets, you can use it as a way to make healthier food choices. Many people after following them report feeling favorable changes in their digestion, mood and energy; all of which seems logical after having replaced processed, dense and very caloric foods with natural, light and medicated ones.

When to resort to the Detox diet?

Usually we are not aware of the effects that cause the accumulation of toxins in our body, but if you are attentive, you may discover some of its symptoms. The most frequent are: lack of energy, bad mood, headaches, skin rashes, overweight, slow digestion, frequent gas, and so on.

If you have felt any of these symptoms frequently, it may be that your purifying organs (liver, kidney, etc.) are in need of a Detox diet, which supports, optimizes and improves their work. Ignoring for a long time the toxic effects on our organism can lead to the appearance of chronic degenerative diseases such as cancer, diabetes and ischemic heart disease.

But before starting any important modification in your diet, you must be sure that you can do it, so in any case the first thing to do is to consult your doctor. Contraindications of Detox diets.

Detox diets are not recommended in the following cases:

• During pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• Individuals with eating disorders such as bulimia or anorexia nervosa.

• In patients with diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, Cushing's disease, cancer, renal failure and type 2 diabetes.

• Caution should be taken and close monitoring should be performed in patients with congestive heart failure, arterial hypertension, and angina pectoris.

Favorable effects of Detox diets on the organism:

• Contributes to the elimination of toxins, disappearing headaches and mental fatigue.

• It helps to reduce body weight in a healthy way.

• Controls blood sugar, cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

• Balances energy levels, making you feel more willing to face any activity.

• Accelerate metabolism, improve sleep.

• They increase the shine and vigor of hair, disappear spots and frequent skin rashes.

• Avoid heavy digestions, facilitate intestinal transit and reduce constipation.

• They help prevent chronic degenerative diseases.

What strategies to follow to carry out a Detox diet?

• Before starting a Detox diet, the nutritional status of the individual should be studied to determine the foods to be restricted or eliminated and the approximate time that the nutritional intervention should last.

• Do not follow very restrictive Detox diet models that depress the body's energy levels too much and jeopardize the immune system, making you more vulnerable to infectious diseases.

• To achieve greater benefits from Detox diets, it is advisable to carry them out in phases (2 or 3) and combine them with the practice of physical exercise, to avoid the loss of muscle mass.