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Detox Diets: Helpful or Full of Hype?

Get the Truth about Detox Diets and Colon Cleansing

-- By Becky Hand, Licensed & Registered Dietitian
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Colon Cleansing uses herbal ingredients, laxatives, enemas, colonics, and/or irrigation devices. These can disrupt the normal functioning and balance of the large intestine, resulting in electrolyte imbalances, diarrhea, dehydration and damage to the protective bacteria in the large intestine. Doctors don’t recommend colon cleansing for improved health and well-being or for the prevention of disease. The colon doesn’t need to be cleansed. In fact, the only appropriate use for colon cleansing is in preparation for a medical procedure used to examine the colon.

Rejuvenate Your Body the Healthy Way
Of course, eating fresh produce, drinking water, and exercising regularly will help you feel healthier and more energetic. But meeting your body's nutritional needs for protein, calcium and other nutrients is also important. Any "diet" that recommends eliminating certain food groups entirely is risky and nutritionally unbalanced. Since detox diets and colon cleansing lack medical evidence to prove they are successful (and can be dangerous), what can you do to improve your health and start losing weight? Enjoy a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. These are the best ways to revitalize and rejuvenate the body.

Include in your diet: In addition, the following practices will help your body perform at its best and reduce your risk of disease:
  • Take part in moderate exercise all or most days of the week.
  • Avoid smoking and inappropriate drug use.
  • Get plenty of sleep every night and take steps to reduce stress and relax.
  • If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
Remember, your body is designed to purify itself. When you are healthy—eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly—your liver and kidneys will do the job they're supposed to do. If you're feeling tired or are having trouble losing weight, talk to your health care provider. Using the steps above (and ruling out any underlying conditions) will help you feel your best. Your body will thank you!

For more information about detox diets, check out these resources:
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About The Author

Becky Hand Becky Hand
Becky is a registered and licensed dietitian with almost 20 years of experience. Through her company, An Ounce of Prevention, she makes nutrition principles practical, easy to apply and fun. See all of Becky's articles.