Detoxification diets are supposed to clean out your body for fantastic health benefits, from increased energy to relief from chronic ailments. But just what's involved? Here's the scoop from Dr. Paul Jaconello, who practises nutritional medicine in Toronto.
Why detox?
"Foods can be poisonous," says Jaconello. Many of us have allergies and don't even know it; our foods trigger immune responses that lead to a variety of other health problems, from fatigue to arthritis.
What do you do?
You restrict your diet -- typically for two to 10 days -- to certain allowed foods, such as fruits, vegetables and juices.
Is diet all there is to detox?
No. Diets help by eliminating allergens, but many detox proponents also try to remove chemicals, such as pesticides or drug residues. These require special regimes, says Jaconello, which may involve saunas, exercise or nutritional supplements.
Do the diets work?
People who have tried them say they feel lighter and more energetic. "Just by removing the reactive foods, you're going to feel better," agrees Jaconello. "And you're not eating junk anymore!"
Are they safe?
In the short-term (one or two weeks), yes. "You need protein, you need fat," points out Jaconello. More important is to have a doctor's supervision and permission; with expert guidance, the true value of such a diet is to identify your reactive foods and adjust your long-term eating plan.
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