We all know that we need to hydrate properly to get the most out of our bodies, but we rarely utilize the full potential of water as a healing element. By undergoing a water detox, we can rapidly expel free-radicals, toxins and chemical waste from our bodies, greatly reducing the threat of cancers and immune disorders.
What is a Detox Diet?
A Detox Diet is a diet constructed to detoxify the body and remove toxins through methods of introduction or reduction. The spectrum for Detox Diets is broad, but generally these diets seek to remove free radicals and pollutants that accumulate over time within the body. With a Detox Diet, toxins are able to leave the body through elimination and sweat. This is done universally through increased water intake, reduced fat and salt intake, increased fiber intake and selective protein intake. The healing qualities, both short term and long term, have been found evident in studies conducted by Cornell University, the British Nutrition Foundation and National Institute of Aging. Many times, a Detox Diet may be structured with certain food groups absent. For example, a diet may require the complete elimination of dairy or meat. Some go so far as to ingest only fruits, vegetables and tea or water may be consumed. Such diets are usually limited to a short period of time, and can be dangerous if done improperly.
What are the Benefits of a Water Detox Program?
Our world is increasingly reliant on the synthetic and unnatural, and our bodies are constantly bombarded with toxins. These toxins not only impair quality of life, but also diminish longevity. To enhance quality of life, it is important to detoxify from time to time to operate optimally. A few immediate results of decreasing free radicals are increased energy, improved mood, digestive regularity, reduced appetite and strengthening of the immune system. More long term results include a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease and a longer life expectancy, according to Susan Bowerman, assistant director of the Center for Human Nutrition at the University of California. One method of accomplishing this is through a Water Detox Diet. This detox program is more intense than some more popular detox diets, but only because it requires a higher degree of commitment and focus from the dieter. A water detox diet works more rapidly than any other comparable diet, and results are immediate. It may also be more affordable, because it requires no change in purchasing habits or expensive supplements.
Getting Started
Generally, a Water Detox should last no longer than five days, and even one day can do a great deal of good. This changes based on personal assessment: the higher the toxicity level of the body, the longer the detox should be. Be sure to discuss plans with your physician if you have pre-existing health conditions. Because a Water Detox is technically a period of fasting, there are several ways to prepare the body for such a drastic change. First, for at least two days before beginning the actual fast, drink only fresh, natural juices (no sugar added) and eat only soft, raw foods. This will help adjust the digestive tract, and mentally ease you into the fast. Once you begin the Water Detox, only water may be ingested for your pre-established period of fast. Tap water and mineral water both contain chemicals that may aggravate the process of detoxification, so it is best to drink only distilled water if possible. To further increase the speed of expulsion from the body, spending time in a sauna or steam room is recommended. Avoid physical exertion, as blood sugar will be highly unstable. During this time, discomfort may be experienced as toxins and pollutants exit the body. This may not necessarily happen, and while some people report being tired initially during a water fast, most people feel more energetic. However, you may want to select a type of prayer or meditation before beginning your fast to aid in completion. Once you have completed your fast, it is best to reintroduce foods slowly, again drinking natural juices and eating only soft, raw foods. Progressively add more solid foods as your intestines readjust.
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