Detoxes, extreme calorie deprivation and juice cleanses are among some of the more popular quick fix post holiday weight loss methods. Is this you? Before you decide to jump on the “cleanse wagon”, take a few things into consideration?
First- the simplest way to think of a cleanse is that it’s about giving your body a break from the toxic and inflammatory things you eat like processed foods, things that are high in fat and sugar, alcohol and other items – you know what I’m talking about here right? By eliminating the intake of the inflammatory stuff, you are giving your body a chance to restore and find balance again. YES! Sounds like a great idea.
A healthy cleanse should include eating real whole foods containing enough calories so that your body doesn’t switch into “storage” mode. (yes, that can happen).
The primary ingredient in a cleanse should not be any sort of laxative (herbal or over the counter). Laxatives can be very stressful on your digestive tract and the idea that a cleanse will help get rid of things that are stored up or “stuck’ in your digestive tract isn’t really true.
In general, the most effect cleanse diets include simple meals with very little processing. The cleanse should be straight forward and give you an opportunity to learn new habits you can use on a more regular basis.
Yes, you might feel a little restricted (maybe a little less full?) depending on your regular daily intake; but you should feel good on the cleanse diet, not light headed, not dizzy or exhausted. Those are not “signs” that the cleanse is working.
If your cleanse or detoxification doesn’t meet these minimal considerations, you probably shouldn’t consider doing it. Your body is truly the most amazing physiological engine. No need to shock or stress out the engine to feel better. Long term results – and true detoxification – come from giving your body the clean fuel it needs on a consistent basis.
Have questions? Want true results that last and that are customized to meet your unique needs? Make 2017 your year. I can help.
Kimberly Young MS CNS is a practicing nutritionist and educator in Dallas, Texas. Learn about her integrative approach and schedule online at https://kyoungnutrition.com.
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