Cleansing Diet

A cleansing diet can be a tremendous boost to one’s overall well-being when done in a healthful and safe manner. While there are extremes to this type of diet regime, there are ways to gain the benefits of a cleansing diet without the severely uncomfortable and dangerous side effects.

What is a Cleansing Diet?

Cleansing diets are often called detox diets for the sole reason of the detoxification process the body goes through when following this type of diet. Detoxification is the process of eliminating toxins and other unhealthful compounds from the body, specifically the liver. The liver itself performs detoxification functions as it serves as the body’s filter, the organ in which every substance of our body finds its way to and through. Over time, this “filter” can become “clogged”, and the filtration system becomes compensated by functioning in a sluggish and inefficient way. A cleansing diet is meant to clean out the liver, which in turn purifies, revitalizes, and energizes the entire body.

Why Cleanse?

There are symptoms that may be acting as signals to you to undergo a cleansing regime. These include:

• fatigue
• lethargy
• insomnia
• allergies
• indigestion
• recurring colds
• headaches

While these symptoms are not solely related to compensated liver function, they can be the beginning of more chronic conditions that a cleansing method can deter. The benefits of a cleanse include an increased level of energy, improved concentration, efficient absorption and digestion of nutrients, and better sleep patterns.

Types of Cleansing Diets

There are many diet plans to choose from when looking for a cleansing routine. Practices range from the very intense to the very mild. The following programs are common picks:

• The Lemonade Diet – Intensity level varies depending on length of practice. Although not recommended, it can be followed for up to 40 days. The main energy source is an elixir of fresh lemon juice, a dash of cayenne pepper, a tablespoon of pure maple syrup, and purified hot water. This fast is also known as the Master Cleanse Diet.

• The Grapefruit Diet– This is a very mild approach to purifying the body. As most citrus foods offer the benefit of detoxifying, grapefruit is a main food source. Basically, the fruit is added to the beginning of each meal. It can be followed for any length of time without side effect.

• The Cabbage Soup Diet – Cabbage, cabbage, cabbage. If you can tolerate cabbage, this cleansing regime may be tolerated well.

• A 24-hour Cleanse- A very common diet with few major side effects. While there are many menu plans available, most include whole, unprocessed, raw (or lightly steamed) fruits and vegetables, slow-cooked brown rice, a source of protein and fat such as tofu or almonds, and lots and lots of water.

• A 3-day Cleanse- Also rather popular, a 3-day detox can offer many benefits without the harsh side effects of longer programs. The foundation of meals is very similar to the 24-hour protocol.

• A 2-week Cleanse – The longer period of time of such diets will certainly cause extreme side effects. There is no evidence that the length of time is beneficial. Please research this type of diet carefully and thoroughly before engaging in it. There are several plans available.

• The Moon Diet - A cleansing diet based on the phases of the moon.

Detoxifying Herbs

In Chinese medicine practice, herbs are used for a variety of symptoms and ailments. Common herbs used in many teas and formulas for the sole purpose of cleansing the body include:

• Senna
• Cascara Sagrada
• Milk Thistle
• Slippery Elm
• Burdock Root
• Black Walnut

You may also see herbs that have anti-spasmodic properties, such as star anise and fennel. The addition of these in teas and other cleansing sources help to moderate the severe cramping that accompanies the main ingredients.

Common Guidelines

While the written outlines cleansing diet differs, there are several commonalities amongst all of them. Eliminating toxins and stimulants is key to any diet claiming to detoxify the body. Common foods and substances to abstain from during this period are caffeine in coffee, tea, soda, chocolate, smoking, processed and refined foods, sugar, and alcohol. In addition, nearly every diet of this type requires drinking a high volume of purified water.

Side Effects and Health Risks

While the lighter versions of a cleansing plan will not cause great discomfort, the side effects escalate in intensity as the diet intensifies. Some of the common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, cramps, headache, fever, sore throat, lethargy, and fatigue. The severe result of dehydration can be easily acquired. Symptoms include dizziness, blurred vision, low urine output, and irritability to name a few. This is why the consumption of water is critical. Also, it is highly discouraged that any diet contribute less than 1200 calories per day. Temporary weight loss is a common side effect as well, but should be monitored in order to avoid health risks.

Seek Advice

While most conventional health practices do not support or encourage cleansing diets, most alternative health practitioners can provide you with proper support and direction. Seek out trained and licensed practitioners before starting a regime. Also, cleansing diets are not recommended and should be avoided if you are pregnant or trying to conceive, if you are taking any medication, if you are diabetic or suffer from any health condition, including auto-immune diseases, or if your health is compromised in any way. These types of diets are best suited for healthy adults only. Children of any age should not be encouraged to engage in any detox diet. Fasting diets are especially dangerous and should not be followed without sound knowledge and support.