Cleansing or detoxification diets are becoming increasingly popular. The diets operate under the assumption that toxins from food preservatives, pesticides and our body’s own natural waste are stored in our bodies, and that the right combination of food or elimination of food can eliminate these toxins from our bodies to give us a clean start. Here are some of the pros and cons of cleansing diets.
Pros:
1. Cleansed palate. One of the most interesting but less thought of pros of a cleansing diet is the fact that when you don’t eat any processed foods for several days or weeks, you lose your taste for them. Many cleansing diets require you to only drink teas or juices. When you’ve finished with the diet, you no longer crave the processed foods you once did. Twinkies and fast food burgers are no longer appealing.
2. Cleaned out toxins. While this isn’t scientifically proven, many believe that toxins are indeed cleaned out of your body when you go on a cleansing diet. If this is true, then this is certainly a significant benefit to your overall health.
3. Temporary weight loss. Most cleansing diets result in weight loss. The weight loss varies by type of diet and duration; a two day fast will not result in as much weight loss as you might imagine. If you plan on incorporating very healthy eating habits after your cleansing diet is complete, then you may be able to maintain the weight loss. However, the majority of weight loss will not be permanent. Some people choose to go on a cleansing diet right before an important event where they want to look particularly good, like a class reunion.
4. More energy. The majority of people who are fans of cleansing diets will tell you that one of the major benefits of a cleansing diet is the increase in energy you feel. This increase in energy can occur both during the diet and after the diet is completed.
Cons:
1. Unpleasant symptoms. There are a number of unpleasant side effects people feel when on a cleansing diet. You may suffer from:
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Feeling weak
• Headaches
• Digestive distress
• Feeling dizzy
• Feeling irritable
Proponents of cleansing diets will remind you that these side effects are only temporary and you’ll feel much better after.
2. Temporary weight loss. The weight loss you’re likely to see from a cleansing diet is most often temporary. As soon as your diet ends, the weight is put back on. The goal of these types of diets is not to lose weight but to eliminate toxins.
3. Difficult to do correctly. Cleansing diets can be difficult to do correctly and can be unsafe. It is recommended that you do a lot of research on your chosen diet and see a doctor before undertaking any extreme changes in your diet.
Cleansing diets can be a good thing if they’re handled correctly and you’re prepared for all of the potential side effects. Take the time to research, and visit your doctor before you make a decision.
