Spring is here, time to DETOX?


Spring is here, which means summer is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to get your body back on track with your health and wellness goals, and you may be thinking about trying a Detox.

But first of all, what exactly is a Detox?  Basically, Detox diets are touted as a way to remove toxins from the body. You may be thinking, doesn`t our body already do that for us? The answer is yes. Our liver, kidneys, lungs, colon, and lymphatic system are all responsible for detoxifying our bodies.  The question however that still remains for many is with all the toxins we come into contact with, whether it is the pesticide residues on fruit and vegetables or air pollution, can our bodies handle it all, or do our bodies need a little help?

Well, based on the research, Detoxs are not yet scientifically proven. There isn`t enough evidence to say that Detox diets are essential for health. Does this mean you shouldn`t do one? It depends. Many are extremely restrictive, and others require you take supplements or laxatives which may or may not be appropriate for you.

Then there are Detox diets that emphasize foods that will naturally cleanse the body, and focuses on consuming adequate fluid to help support your body`s natural detoxification system in flushing the toxins. These Detoxs are the ones I’m a fan of.

A Natural Detox
The type of Detox I recommend is one that focuses on natural foods that are unrefined, rich in antioxidants, phytonutrients and fibre, and includes adequate fluids-specifically water- 9 cups of fluid for women, and 13 cups for men according to the Dietary Reference Intakes. Keep in mind, if it is hot where you live, or you are active, your needs are higher.
If you want to take it a step further, particularly if you think you have food allergies but haven`t yet figured out what  you are sensitive to, you can also give your body a break from the foods that research suggests tend to be more allergenic, specifically

• Peanuts
• Eggs
• Milk
• Tree nuts
• Wheat
• Soy
• Sesame seeds
• Seafood
• Sulphites
• Mustard

Try following this type of Detox for 2 weeks and see how you feel. 14 days is enough to notice a difference in how you feel and see if it works for you, plus it is easier to commit 100% when it is for a set period of time, vs…FOREVER.