Detox diet: the dos and don’ts

When it comes to food in a detox diet there are certain requirements that must be followed. Dietary detoxification means we must limit our foods and often calories.  Although there is a wide range of detox diets, they all are essentially based around organic plant or plant-based foods and foods with little or no meat, fat and salt. Along with this, a detox diet will also involve plenty of water, juices and herbal teas. These foods are chosen for their lack of toxins and are lighter in nature to take the load off the digestive system.

Beneficial Foods and Beverages in a Detox Diet
There are certain foods that are beneficial to any detox diet for their ability to deactivate or remove toxins. These include fruits and vegetables (preferably organic), vegetable juices, grains, legumes and basmati or brown rice. Fresh fruits and vegetables are beneficial for a detox as they are rich sources of antioxidants. Chlorophyll-rich foods such as leafy green vegetables have detoxifiying properties that boost immunity and cleanse the kidneys and blood. Sea plants such as seaweed and kelp are also beneficial additions to a detox diet for their ability to transform toxic metals into salts the body can eliminate.

What to Avoid During a Detox Diet
Foods to avoid during a detox include all forms of sugar, dairy products, wheat products, caffeine and foods that are processed or contain preservatives. Alcohol, cigarettes and drugs must, of course, be avoided during a detox.

Tips for a Detox Diet
Here are some tips for a successful detox diet along with ways to incorporate beneficial foods into your diet.

• During your detox diet, try reading the labels on food packets to see their contents. As a detox diet requires whole, nutritious foods and not processed foods, reading the labels helps you make the right food choices.
• Fruits and vegetables are extremely beneficial for a detox but can contain pesticides. To remove them, soak in a bentonite clay bath to absorb some of toxins.
• Foods rich in antioxidants are not only healthy choices but a great way to minimise the damage toxins cause when they are released. Berries are a great source of antioxidants to assist in the detox process. Research has found that blueberries have the highest antioxidant content.
• Herbal teas such as nettle leaf or green tea flush out toxins from the body. Replace coffee with herbal teas and drink two to three cups daily for optimal results.
• Supplements, along with antioxidant-rich foods, can also form part of a detox diet. Look for combination antioxidants such as vitamin C, beta-carotene and other carotenes, natural vitamin Es, zinc and St Mary’s thistle.
• High-fibre fruits such as apples, bananas and berries make great snacks. They also aid digestive regularity and stabilise insulin levels to reduce fat storage, speed metabolism and minimise sugar cravings.
• Water plays an essential role during any detox plan. Use a water filter, as drinking plenty of pure water is great for kidney support.