Easy Weight Loss Detox Diet

Detoxification is the natural process of eliminating or neutralizing toxins in the body. A detox diet reduces the intake of foods known to contain high levels of toxins such as coffee, alcohol, sugar, processed foods, meat and dairy products. A detox diet also promotes weight loss by reducing caloric intake and saturated fats.

Preparation

Use caution and prudence and consult your primary physician before beginning a detox diet. Eating smaller meals and portions for several days will tell your mind, and stomach, that less food is acceptable. Reducing amounts of caffeine, sugar, alcohol and saturated fats over several days will help ease discomfort in the early stages. Taking time off work or starting on a weekend is suggested.

Benefits

Increased toxins in the body have been linked to hormone imbalance, an impaired immune system, nutritional deficiency and an inefficient metabolism. A successful detox diet promotes regular bowel movements and improved digestion. Reducing toxins in the body may improve energy and increase concentration and mental clarity.

Side Effects

The most common side effect is a headache during the first few days due to caffeine withdrawal. Excessive diarrhea or constipation from consuming more fiber without increasing water intake may also occur. Other side effects include tiredness, irritability, nausea, acne and hunger. Taking vitamin C may decrease headaches and nausea.

Liquid Fast

Fasting is abstaining from food, eating very little or abstaining from certain types of foods. For a liquid fast to qualify as a detox diet, the liquids must be limited to water and juices (preferably made from raw fruits and vegetables). If using store-bought juices, limit yourself to those containing no preservatives, chemicals or sweeteners. Green tea will help clean toxins from the liver. Weight loss is achieved by reducing caloric intake.

Liver-Cleansing Diet

The goal is to improve liver function, which will lead to weight loss. Concentrate on healthy whole foods and drink plenty of water and juice. Foods high in fiber such as raw fruits and vegetables and whole grains are recommended. Abstain from foods high in saturated fats (such as meat and dairy) and refined sugar. Weight loss on this diet will be more gradual than on a liquid diet.

The Master Cleanser/Lemonade Diet

The book "Master Cleanser" was written by Stanley Burroughs. Burroughs recommends drinking only a lemonade mixture of fresh lemon juice, natural maple syrup, cayenne pepper and spring water for a minimum of 10 days. This diet will rid your body of toxins while letting you lose up to 2 pounds a day.

Conclusion

Customize your detox diet program to suit your needs. The long-term goal is to improve your health and maintain weight loss by including natural foods high in fiber in your diet. Returning to a diet high in calories, saturated fats and processed foods will defeat the purpose of detoxification.