Detox, refers to removal of the toxic substances and cleansing of the kidneys and the colon, as these organs are involved in the detoxification of chemicals and toxins from the body. This article provides a seven day detox diet menu and information on the need for cleansing the body.
Detoxification of human body takes place naturally, if the intake of pure water and fiber is as per the body’s requirement. The main reason for all kinds of health problems, especially the ones associated with the intestines and the respiratory system, is the presence of toxins in our bodies. These toxins enter our bodies through various means such as, the air that we breathe, the food that we eat, and the cosmetics and other body care products that we use. Accumulation of toxins and other waste matter in the body renders it weak, thereby giving rise to various health problems. So, it is very important to detox at frequent intervals to keep oneself healthy and fit. Following a detox diet is one of the ways to cleanse your body.
Follow a Detox Diet
One needs to quit or substantially cut down on the intake of meats, processed foods, junk food, carbonated drinks, alcohol, and smoking, while following this diet. Also, one must switch to vegetables, fruits, and high fiber foods. Drink lots of water as it helps to flush out the wastes and toxins from the body. Below given is an effective 7-day detox diet:
Day 1
Eliminate all solids from the diet. Consume only filtered water, fresh fruit juices such as cranberry juice, and herbal teas.
Day 2
In addition to the liquids, include high-fiber fruits such as oranges, prunes, pears, guava, apples, avocado, blueberries, raspberries, and black berries. Consuming such foods will help in better digestion and quick removal of waste matter from the body.
Day 3
Introduce high fiber vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, cabbage, and eggplant in your diet. Remember to consume them only in salads, i.e., uncooked. Eat six cloves of raw garlic, as it helps in purifying the blood; and one tablespoon of parsley too, as it aids the functioning of the liver.
Day 4
On the fourth day, you can have cooked vegetables, along with low-fat brown rice. However, continue eating six cloves of garlic.
Day 5
Eat lots of dry fruits and nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, pistachios, etc., as they are rich in essential fatty acids. Include beans and lentils in the diet too.
Day 6
On the sixth day, you can have cooked vegetables and brown rice, and also include whole grains and yogurt in your diet.
Day 7
Eat all the foods mentioned in the last six days in limited quantities on the last day. Your body is now prepared to continue with a normal diet.
Cleanse the Body
During the process of detoxification, it is very important to cleanse the body externally too. A shower should be taken at least twice a day. The body should be properly cleaned, exfoliated, and scrubbed, to remove all the dirt, oil, and dead cells. Body wraps such as sea salt body wrap or clay body wrap, help in drawing out toxins from the body. One can try the aforementioned wraps or take a steam bath to open the skin pores and get rid of body impurities. Besides cleansing the body, it’s very important that clean clothes are worn and clean bed sheets are used while sleeping.
For maintaining oral hygiene, practice the habit of brushing twice and rinsing with a mouth wash. Scraping the tongue and dental flossing is also very important.
Avoid Chemicals
You should stay away from chemicals as far as possible. Avoid using room fresheners, cosmetics, perfumes, etc. You may switch to herbal cosmetics, if you cannot give them up fully. Make sure that you open the windows of your house daily, to let in natural light.
Besides your body, it is also very important that you keep your mind relaxed and calm too. You can start an exercise routine or practice yoga and meditation. Avoid any kind of negative emotions, be it anger or jealousy. Socialize, stay in touch with your friends and family.
