DIY Detox: A Better Plan for Cleansing Your Body

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Detox diets suck. Not only are they restrictive and almost impossible to stick to, but they’re also not necessary. Numerous medical experts say the science behind detoxing is “junk” and our bodies are perfectly equipped with their own ability to detox. Instead of starving yourself on nothing but lemon juice and cayenne pepper (as prescribed by one wildly popular diet) try a more sustainable — and healthy — option.

A great way to detox is to commit to two weeks or more of eating whole, unprocessed foods. Eliminate caffeine, alcohol, sugar, and all pre-packaged and processed foods. Do some form of physical activity everyday whether it's a 30-minute stroll or a sweat-pumping Bikram yoga class. Avoid eating out.

Try incorporating these foods into your diet for a healthy, lasting, do-it-yourself detox diet plan:

Fruit: From pineapples and pears to blueberries and bananas, no fruit is off limits. If you’re looking to lose weight during your detox keep fruit consumption to three servings a day because many fruits are high in sugar.

Vegetables: When it comes to veggies, the more the better. Try pairing every meal with a salad of leafy greens. Step out of your comfort zone and try veggies you wouldn’t normally choose.

Beans and lentils: Filled with fiber and protein, beans and lentils are a low cal way to keep you satiated and cleansed.

Water and tea: During a detox, eliminate all liquids except water (lots and lots of water) and tea. Sodas and juices are packed with sugar, calories, and caffeine — all detox destoyers.

Fresh fish and lean meats: While eating less meat is critical, it’s not necessary to become a vegan or vegetarian to be healthy. Limit your meat serving to once a day and keep it to lean cuts and fresh fish.

Other great items to incorporate into a starvation-free detox include:

Tofu and tempeh
Oatmeal
Potatoes
Brown rice
Whole wheat pasta
Rye crackers, rice cakes and oatcakes 
Unsalted nuts and seeds
Air-popped popcorn
Lowfat yogurt and cottage cheese 
Extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar  (as salad dressing)
Garlic, ginger, herbs, and spices
Honey 

Edited by Malu Banuelos

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Anonymous

I have done the detox a few times because of my glaucoma. Detoxing is a great way to control your glycemic index load, and a great way to stay healthy in general! I tend to focus on the nuts and veggies, but never thought of air-popped popcorn!

http://www.thediabetesscoop.com/glycemic-index-load.php

October 9, 2011 - 4:08am

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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.