Wednesday, January 18, 2017

Feeling Dirty?



To Cleanse Or Not To Cleanse

 

Cleanses, or detox diets have been around for centuries.  Some people swear by them others insist it’s a waste of time, money and may even be dangerous.  Personally I think that if doing a cleanse or detox serves a purpose for you, you should go ahead and do it.  If you feel that it’s a waste of time and potentially dangerous, don’t do it.  Simple as that!


What Is A Cleanse 

 

Basically doing a cleanse means eliminating processed foods, alcohol and caffeine and replacing them with organic vegetables, healthy fats and vegetable based proteins for a certain period of time.  Some cleanses go a step further and eliminate all solid food.  The idea is that you remove the things that are bogging down your system and only take in things that will help the body flush out built up toxins.  

People who are against cleansing argue that your body is capable of cleansing itself and they are not wrong.  There actually isn’t any scientific proof that nutritional cleanses are necessary or even work but for some people it’s a pleasurable experience that serves them well.


Pros And Cons Of Cleanses

 

Pros:

1.       Increased energy and sense of vitality.
2.       Revitalized mind and spirit.
4.       Makes you more mindful of what you’re putting in your body.
5.       Helps you discover what foods you are sensitive to because once you finish the cleanse and go back to your usual diet you’ll notice right away if something aggravates your system.

Cons:

1.       If you suddenly start eating a lot of high fibre fruits and vegetables you could experience gastrointestinal discomfort.
2.       If you’re a teenager, or pregnant or very active following a low calorie eating plan even for just a few days could be detrimental to your health.
3.       Cleanses are not meant for long term weight loss.  The weight you do lose is mostly water and will come back when you go back to your regular eating habits.  If you’re considering a cleanse as a weight loss tool, don’t.  This type of thinking can lead to disordered eating and could potentially be life threatening.
4.       Cleanses are not proven to rid your body of toxins better than your own bodily mechanisms.


Still Debating?

 

If you’re thinking about trying a cleanse make sure it’s a healthy one that you can fit into your lifestyle.  Try to find one that includes solid foods as well as liquids and isn’t lower than 1000 calories.  If you’re active plan to take days off or stick with very light exercise during your cleanse.

For some people, doing a cleanse makes them feel better.  They feel energetic and have a greater sense of vitality.  It also makes them more mindful of what they’re eating which helps set them on a path of healthier eating.  If this is you, go for it!  If you think cleanses are stupid then don’t do them.





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