Detoxification diet is a diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables, pulses, grains, cereals and nuts, aimed at detoxifying or cleansing the body of all the toxic substances.
If your liver is not functioning to its full capacity, it indicates a build-up of toxins in the body which could be because of stress, pollution, consumption of processed food which has many chemicals and lack of physical exercise. Presence of these toxins, which may be found in the liver, brain, heart, lungs, intestines and thyroid, in the body may cause several health problems.
Detoxification diet gives the much-needed rest to the body as it no longer needs to deal with foods that are difficult to digest and metabolize and increases your blood sugar level. The body diverts its energies to cleanse the body of all the toxins.
Detoxification diet comprises foods and drinks that are healthy and act as building blocks to the body. It also includes anti-oxidants which protects you from harmful toxins and eliminates all the toxins from the body, making you feel healthier. These days, 7 day detoxification kits are also available in the market which contains remedies with natural ingredients to cleanse the body of all the toxins.
Many chemicals or toxins like natural food toxins, alcohol, cigarette smoke, and household chemicals can be detoxified with the help of liver, which helps in maintaining a balance of cholesterol, process proteins, activate hormones and store vitamins.
Though liver can detoxify most of the toxins present in the body on its own, it might not function to its optimum level if it is overworked. Some of the symptoms of poor function of liver are tiredness, under-eye circles, poor digestion and dull skin.
You should not follow a detoxification diet if you have an eating disorder, diabetes or are under medication. Pregnant women and lactating mothers too should not follow the diet.
Detoxification diet should not be followed just for a week but some of its principles should be followed throughout your life to lead a healthy and fit life.