Raw Food Detox Diet

A raw food detox diet can be a tremendous boost to one’s overall well-being when conducted 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 side effects.

Reasons for Detox 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 eliminates toxins and other unhealthy materials from the body, focusing on the liver. The liver performs some detoxification on its own, since everything you put into your body has to go through it. If your body's filter--the liver--becomes clogged over time, its ability to do its job suffers, and the liver becomes sluggish and inefficient. A detox diet can purify the whole body by cleansing the liver.

If you have the following symptoms, you may want to consider a raw food detox diet or another form of cleansing diet:

• Fatigue/lethargy
• Insomnia
• Mood swings
• Allergies
• Indigestion
• Recurring colds or infections
• Headaches
• Difficulty losing weight
• Bloating
• Sugar cravings

These symptoms are not all strictly related to liver function. However, they can be signs of more chronic conditions that can be deterred with the help of a cleansing method.

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. A three-day cleanse that offers many benefits without the harsh side effects of longer programs is a general starting point. For the raw food detox diet, the foundation of meals is based on whole, fresh, raw foods that are easy on the digestion system while at the same time acting to purify the liver and support the body. It is also recommended that food choices be organically grown and only pure, unprocessed ingredients should be used.

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. Herbs can be effectively used as part of a raw food detox diet.

Common Guidelines

Eliminating toxins and stimulants is key to any diet claiming to detoxify the body, including a raw food detox diet plan. Common foods and substances to abstain from during this period are caffeine (in coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate), smoking, processed and refined foods, and alcohol. In addition, a raw food detox diet requires drinking a high volume of purified water. Foods that should never be eaten raw are poultry, beef, and eggs. In contrast, an abundance of raw vegetables, fruits, quality fish products, and juices are required. Raw nuts, such as almonds and walnuts, and seeds provide a sufficient amount of protein and healthy fats during this time period.

The day before starting the plan, eliminate all stimulants such as tea, coffee, chocolate, tobacco, alcohol, herbal supplements not specified for detox purposes, as well as sugar from soda, candy, and cake. Meat, dairy products, and all processed foods should be avoided as well.

On detox day, rest and stay warm. Get plenty of fresh air, but engage in gentle activity only.

After following the plan, avoid stimulants and processed foods for one week. Listen to your body, as it knows instinctively which foods are good for you and which are not. Choose whole, unprocessed, raw foods as often as possible.

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. Most people can safely follow a raw food detox diet, but it is wise to discuss any change in eating habits with a medical professional. Pregnant women, diabetics, people with impaired immune systems or suffering from chronic conditions may not be able to follow any detox-type diet.

Beyond Fruit

Ginger is a natural antibiotic and circulatory stimulant, which makes it perfect for balancing energy. Lemon acts as an emulsifier, cleansing the liver for improved function and metabolizing bile acids. This tonic will increase energy by supplying the body with vitamins B3 and C, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. The body will benefit from improved immunity, digestion, and cardiovascular health.

• 1 thick slice of lemon
• 1 piece of fresh ginger, 2/3” long, peeled and bruised
• 1 cup boiling water

Place lemon and ginger in cup. Add boiling water and leave to infuse for two minutes. Remove lemon and ginger and drink immediately.

Dose: 1 – 2 cups per day.

Milk thistle is a well-known detoxifying agent.

Purchase already-made tea bags at health food stores. Steep in boiling water for at least five minutes. Add one teaspoon of honey for flavor, if necessary.

Dose: 1 cup per day.

Pure water also enables body tissues to avoid the build-up of toxic metabolites. Fluid deficiency reduces the volume of circulating plasma that is vital for transporting oxygen nutrients to the tissues. Also, a low fluid level causes a higher concentration of waste and toxic material in the blood compared to when the fluid levels are at optimum levels within the tissues. In addition, physical and mental capabilities deteriorate due to this increased toxicity in the body.

Dose: 3 pints per day including a small glass at arising and lastly before retiring to keep body systems running smoothly.

Raw Food Detox Diet Summary

• Cut out caffeine, processed foods, complex sugars, smoking, and alcohol
• Do not eat raw poultry, eggs, or beef
• Do eat lots of raw vegetables and fruits (Bonus: if you've ever wanted to try sushi, now is a good time)
• Drink plenty of water
• Get lots of fresh air