Proponents of a detox diet often report feeling improved energy, clearer skin, improved digestion, increased concentration and clarity and regular bowel movements. However, depending upon the diet chosen, detractors of the process also claim that individuals can suffer from long-term kidney and liver damage because of the substances used or not used during the process.
Unfortunately, today many individuals are using these detox diets in order to lose a significant amount of weight in a short period of time. They are thought to be super restricted eating plans and are being linked to specific celebrities who seek to fit into specific dress sizes in order to play parts in the movies.
The idea of detoxifying or purifying the body has been around for centuries. Although there are no specific numbers on how many people have tried the latest plans many dozens of new do-it-yourself fasting books are making it to the bookstores. Nutrition experts are also sounding alarm over the possible risks from lengthy or repeated fasts which appears to go along with the current fad of detox diets.
Vitamin deficiencies, muscle breakdown and blood sugar problems are not the least of the problems being suffered and experienced by individuals. Another of the seriously unpleasant drawbacks is the unsupervised and overuse of laxatives which has often been associated with eating disorders.
Experts are firm about the types of individuals who should not attempt to use these fasting diets because of the crash in blood sugar, potassium and sodium levels. People with diabetes, heart or kidney disease or women who are pregnant or nursing should not try these diets. Experts also believe that children, teens, older adults or people with certain digestive conditions should also steer clear of these detox diets which involves starvation or drinking specific types of fluid but eating no solid foods.
On the other hand, there are practical ways of using a detoxifying diet or regimen to assist the body in clearing certain chemicals or toxins which negatively impact the health of any individual. It has been no secret that household cleaning supplies, make up, and even processed foods contain chemicals which are toxic to the body. Because these chemicals often remain in the body over long periods of time, residing in the fat cells, individuals are faced with the potential for chronic build up and deteriorating health.
Resources:
EveryDiet: Detox Diets
http://www.everydiet.org/detox_diet.htm
MayoClinic: Do Detox Diets offer any health Benefits
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/detox-diets/AN01334
Dr Oz: 48 Hour Weekend Cleanse
http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/48-hour-weekend-cleanse
CBS News: Do Detox Diets work?
http://www.cbsnews.com/2100-500165_162-4036502.html
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