Doing A Full Body Cleanse: Tips For First Timers
Magazines and television programs have given a lot of coverage on the benefits, and different methods, of doing a body cleanse. There is so much information about it in the media; it’s really difficult to sort out what you should do. Which method is best? What will you need and how do you prepare? What can you expect? For every question there are literally thousands of answers.
Luckily, it doesn’t have to be that difficult. Your body is already doing it! The body naturally, and continually, cleanses itself of toxins. All you need to do is help it along a bit. There’s no great need for fasting, fancy equipment or pills. You just need to give your system a break and let it do its job.
The first thing to understand is where the toxins are coming from and how they get in your system. We absorb most toxins from our environment. Air particulates, chemicals in our food, cleaning solutions, even lotion! Chemicals are everywhere. Toxins can build up inside or bodies if our organs cannot process and eliminate them faster than we are taking them in.
This build up of toxins can eventually lead to chronic medical problems from fatigue to heart problems. This is why so many health experts recommend a body cleanse regime. Experts agree, however, that it should be part of a new, healthy lifestyle rather than the occasional ritual.
Basically what you will need to do is keep the demands on your digestive system to a minimum! Eat only easy-to-digest foods like whole fruits and vegetables. Proteins like meat, eggs, nuts, dairy, and legumes (beans) take a lot of work for your body to digest, which means they make more demands on your organs. Fats are also hard for your body to process. All whole fruits and vegetables (not canned) are great for a body detox, so stock up on your favorites. Eat until you are full, but do not further stress your system by overeating.
The second thing you will need to do for your body cleanse detox is drink a lot of water. This will ensure your organs are properly hydrated and working at their best capacity. Filtered tap water is fine - most filters sufficiently remove toxins from your water. If you do not like just plain water, you can try iced or hot tea. Just go for decaffeinated and do not add sugar or dairy.
For a really effective detox, you really should avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine. These substances are stimulants and can stress your system. If you want to try to give them up for the duration of the cleanse, give yourself a week or so to taper off. Otherwise you will suffer from withdrawal symptoms that may make sticking to your cleanse more difficult. If you feel you cannot give these things up, it’s okay. Do not give up on your cleanse! You will still get a lot of benefits from the fruit, veggie and water program. One more thing; never stop taking prescribed medications without the express permission of your doctor.
It really is that simple. Be easy on your system and drink lots of water. If you plan to do a full body cleanse for more than a week or two, make sure you research how vegans get adequate protein. If you are pregnant or have serious health conditions, definitely consult with your physician first. You may suffer a little withdraw from your sugary, fatty favorite foods, and you may spend more time in the bathroom, but your body will definitely thank you for the detox.