detox diet

Nutrition & Fitness
Detoxing: The Big Clean
Detox diet: Do or don't?

News items about the health effects of many popular foods inspire us to think in new ways about what we eat, what we shouldn't eat, and what it's doing to our body. If you're ready to put down the bag of Doritos, large Frappuccino, or box of Oreos and commit to eating better, you might want to consider detoxing.
Here, registered dietitian and American Dietetic Association spokesperson Lisa Dorfman discusses detoxing and whether it's right for you.
What is detoxing?
Detoxing boosts your body's nutritional intake and sheds toxins such as processed food chemicals and environmental pollutants, Dorfman says. This weeklong process involves eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet, drinking plenty of water and clear fluids, and getting enough rest. You can also include light-to-moderate exercises in your routine.
Who should detox?
Detoxing is a good choice for people with diets consistently low in one or more essential nutrients, such as certain vitamins or minerals, fibre, probiotics or antioxidants, Dorfman says. "A dietitian can help you analyze what you're missing and what you need more of."
Who shouldn't detox?
Dorfman says individuals should avoid detoxing, or talk to their doctor or dietitian first, if they:
are under 18
are pregnant or lactating
have a gastrointestinal disorder such as Crohn's disease or gastritis
have an autoimmune disease such as lupus or arthritis
are training for an endurance event
have any other serious health condition not listed here
Which foods should I eat?
Divine detox foods Dorfman says should make up a balanced diet include:
whole-grain cereals, pastas, and breads: high in vitamin B, fibre and minerals
probiotic yogurt: rich in calcium and protein, and the live cultures aid in digestion
whole fruits, especially acid fruits such as orange, grapefruit, lemon, pineapples, and tangerines. If you are taking any medications, check with your pharmacist to see if it's safe for you to have grapefruit or grapefruit juice.
cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts and arugula: high in vital vitamins and minerals, fibre, antioxidants, and isothiocyanates, which help your body break down potential carcinogens
salmon: low in saturated fat and calories, high in protein, and a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health
water and clear natural juices: digest most easily and keep you hydrated
When should I detox?
Consider scheduling your detox around the new year - a time of renewal for many - or during spring cleaning, since you're already in an out-with-the-old, in-with-the-new mentality, Dorfman says. Detoxing a few times a year is beneficial, she says: like your car, your body also requires regular maintenance. Ideally, you might begin incorporating some or all elements of your detox diet into your regular diet.
What are the benefits?
Eating better is your body's ticket to improving your energy, preventing long-term health problems, and achieving a general sense of wellness. "When you're healthy and confident in your body, it affects your whole life," Dorfman explains. "You feel better, you're more productive at work, you feel more inspired to liven up your marriage, run a marathon - anything you put your mind to."More:
The real deal on detoxing