The subject of detoxification used to refer to intoxicants or addictive substances, but nowadays it applies to all the undesirable elements that are included in our diet and even in the air we breathe.
The human body is designed to eliminate unwanted ‘toxic’ wastes. However, depending on your lifestyle and eating habits, these toxins may or may not be too much for your body to handle.
There is an ongoing controversy between proponents of detox plans and diets, and those who feel that they are unnecessary and possibly harmful. Again, your decision to detox or not to detox should be based on an accurate assessment of the levels of these wastes in your own body. The only sensible course is to consult a physician or a dietitian before you try any of the various approaches to detoxification.
The human body is constantly performing different chemical processes. The metabolism of protein, for example, produces ammonia as one by-product. There are many others, of course, and ideally they take place in the natural functions of our bodies so that an excess of toxic substances does not occur.
However, with today’s preponderance of fast food, processed food and just plain “junk” food, there is a good chance that natural processes are going to be overworked to the point of failure.
Though most detox plans will result in some weight loss (a bonus for most people), the idea of detoxification is to give the natural process some assistance in eliminating or preventing the build-up of excess toxins.
It cannot be emphasized too much that a professional should be consulted before attempting any of the numerous “plans” that different advocates suggest.
Specifically, if you have any serious medical condition including but certainly not limited to autoimmune disorders or kidney problems, detox is probably not for you. Other non-candidates include pregnant or lactating women and children in general.
As a rule, any detox plan calls for the reduction of your intake of the kinds of food that generate higher levels of the toxins your body needs to eliminate. Depending on your normal eating habits and your general health, the plan may be fairly undramatic, i.e. cutting down on the burgers and fries, and eating more fruits and vegetables.
In other cases, there may be detailed charts of exactly what to eat and when to eat it. Different plans should address specific problems, and can be quite restrictive.
Once again, this is a strong argument for personal and professional medical guidance.
The wrong detox plan, or even a good one used without supervision, can be highly detrimental to your health! Side effects such as fatigue, nausea and headaches are common in such cases. Other possible effects, such as dangerously low blood sugar, exhaustion or heart palpitations can also result from an extreme or badly planned detoxification.
If you want to try ‘detoxing’ for any reason, make an appointment with a trusted physician or dietitian. Let them make recommendations based on your health, lifestyle, eating habits and any other factors that may be present – including your budget!
If detoxification is indicated as a necessary and/or desirable step, stay with the program laid out for you. Should you find yourself feeling worse, not better, consult your advisor immediately and re-think your whole approach to the detox question.
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