Detoxing - Why and How

After a spate of hurried meals, business lunches, airline food or cocktail functions your body may be sending you signals that all is not well. You may be feeling tired, sluggish and lacking in energy. This is a result of a build-up of toxins in the body. Perhaps you are having headaches and digestive problems, your muscles may ache and you may be getting frequent colds and upper respiratory tract infections. If these symptoms sound familiar, you can help your body by going on a detoxification programme. But make sure that you consult a registered dietician or your family health care provider before embarking on such a program.

Your liver is the organ responsible for breaking down toxins, but with a combination of bad diet, too much alcohol and pollutants in the environment, the liver often can't cope with the load. Detoxing your body is not easy and you will need a lot of willpower to keep to the program. But it is well worth it to feel healthy and energized.

You need to be aware that during the detox program you may feel worse before you feel better. As the toxins in your body are eliminated you may experience common side effects such as nausea, weakness, headaches, constipation or diarrhea and skin rashes. If you want to detoxify your body, for five to seven days, cut out the following from your diet:

1. alcohol

2. salt

3. sugar

4. preservatives, flavorants, etc. processed food

5. red meat

Eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables (lightly cooked or raw). Also eat high-fibre foods such as whole-wheat cereal, legumes, Soya, etc. Eat low-fat dairy products, and fish and skinless poultry (grilled or baked). If you want to cut out wheat, replace it with foods such as rye bread, baked potatoes, rice and oats to get enough energy in your diet. Drink plenty of water. Remember to try and follow a healthy balanced diet when you return to your normal eating pattern.