Be Smart in Your Detox – Do Your Homework

Detoxes and cleanses are a popular trend. Perhaps you’ve even considered trying one. Before beginning any type of detox, do your due diligence and find the best detox for you. As you do your homework, keep in mind what your health goals are and what you want out of your detox.

Identify Your Health Goals

Take a moment to identify your health goals and expectations from the detox. Too many times people go into a detox program with the unrealistic expectation of losing weight. Although you may lose weight, you really shouldn’t enter into a detox or cleanse with that sole purpose.

Instead, use the detox to eliminate toxins in your body and improve your energy level. The key to detoxing is to help the body cleanse itself through minimizing those toxins and other chemicals, which have entered your body through the foods you’re eating and environment.

While you’re setting your health goals, keep in mind both your long and short term goals. Ask questions like, what are your fitness goals? What do you want to accomplish? Where do you want to be, health wise, in 5 years? Your doctor, nutritionist, or health professional can help you decide what options might be best and answer your questions.

Best Detox For You

Once you’ve locked on your health goals, now is the time to decide which detox diet is best for you. Because no two bodies are the same, not every detox will be right for you. As you begin a detox program, be sure to talk with your doctor or health professional to know which options might be best for you.

Still deciding on which detox diet to try? Here are a few you may want to check out:

1. Green smoothie cleanse. You’ve probably seen a lot of green juice photos while conducting your research and for good reason. This is a very popular detox option. If you decide to go with this detox, for 10 days only, drink smoothies made of fruits and vegetables. For recipe ideas and to learn more about this detox, check out the book, 10-Day Green Smoothie Cleanse by JJ Smith.

2. Liquid cleanse. Unlike the green smoothie cleanse, this type of detox also includes pureed and miso soups; in addition to fresh fruits and vegetables. You can also include flaxseed, coconut, and sesame oil into your smoothies or juices to ensure you get your omega-3 fatty acids and other important nutrients.

3. Master cleanse. Made popular by Beyonce, this cleanse has been around for a long time. For this detox, combine lemon juice, maple syrup, and cayenne pepper (I recommend using the liquid drops which can be found in most health stores) in some hot water and drink like a tea.

If you’re new to detoxes, I would recommend limiting the diet to the weekend to see how your body reacts. Remember, if you’re stressing your body out by not giving it the necessary nutrients it needs to function, you’re not doing yourself any favors.

Before you begin any detox or diet program, make sure you talk with your doctor or health professional to ensure you’re still meeting your nutritional needs.

About the Author: Olivia Bakersfield is passionate about health and wellness. She enjoys writing about all the things she loves in life, including tai chi, essential oils, Nature’s Sunshine products, and anything related to spending time outdoors.

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