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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