Detoxing

You may know too much about popular cleanses, detoxes, and diets when you are able to spot a Master Cleanser ahead of you in the Whole Foods check-out line based off of her two items purchased: Smooth Move tea and maple syrup. I will say, the chocolate flavored Smooth Move tea had me thrown for a second, but what the heck. Why not try and enjoy something about your next multi-day endeavor of drinking a magical potion that cleans out your digestive tract faster than you can scramble to the nearest toilet. 

Although I cannot speak from personal experience on the touted Master Cleanse, I have heard plenty of horror stories from clients and read through numerous articles of people describing a day-in-the-life of a Master Cleanser to know I'd rather keep my distance. Oddly reminiscent of a battle with an intestinal parasite, what is the true point of a cleanse like this? Does the digestive tract do the job of detoxifying the body? No. Do we need to flush out all of the necessary 'good' bacteria of the intestinal tract? Probably not. Is there any scientific evidence behind cleanses or detoxes like the MC? NOPE! Then why are people targeting a system whose sole purpose is to extract nutrients, vitamins, and minerals the body needs in order to stay alive?? .:shaking my head:. Cleanses of the GI tract for the purpose of detoxing the body are just plain silly. Perhaps you will shed a few pounds, but once you go back to the normal life of a human, I say expect to gain back your loss.

Now, if you're really looking to detoxify your body (maybe you had a few too many alcoholic beverages, sugar cookies, or cheetos), check in with your LIVER. You know, that organ that holds the title of detoxifier of the body? Support your liver with the enzymes it needs to function properly, moderate, if not completely eliminate, common toxic substances we throw into our bodies, and supply your body with the kind of nutrition it craves in order to get things working as they should. Healthy diet, hydration, exercise, and sleep will all work together to keep your body flushing out toxins, I can promise you that.

True detoxification starts and ends with giving your body the things it needs most: lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, plenty of water, and steady supply of vitamins and minerals found in real, whole foods. Perhaps there are times when experimenting with a short-term detoxes might be advised, but forget about detoxing once a year to shed a few pounds, and try living healthfully all year round! Your body will thank and reward you for it.

Photo Cred: Courtesy of Conjeo Valley Fitness