We always hear that we need a detoxification in order to rid ourselves from toxins we take in, but is this a good or bad method to improve digestive health? Toxicity has been linked with many illnesses, so it seems like a no-brainer to want to embark on detoxification as a means to make us healthier. But with an ongoing back-and-forth debate about the pros and cons of detoxification, especially regarding digestive health, we all end up more confused.
If you experience stomach troubles, you may be more inclined to want to try detoxification as a means to achieve relief. If this is your goal, then continue to read on in order to better understand the facts surrounding detoxification and digestive health.
Is detoxification good or bad for your digestive health?
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Although you may be hoping we give you a straight to the point answer, when it comes to detoxification, it’s just not that easy. Instead we will present you with the facts, so you can become better informed and conduct a safe and healthy detox.
There are many things to consider when embarking on a detox; you will most likely be hungry, you will probably feel weak and you may feel more irritable and angry than usual. The good news is this is normal, so if people are concerned about your temporary changes in behavior, just blame it on the detox.
The type of detox diet you choose will determine how long you have to go without food, and what kinds of food you will eat. Detox diets can be anywhere from three days to a few weeks.
Depending on what your goals are that, too, may determine which diet you choose. For one thing, if you are looking to lose weight, then a detox diet may be beneficial to you. If your take part in detoxification for digestive health, you may not see too many extra benefits.
You see, our body is meant to detox itself naturally – thanks to organs like the kidneys and liver. The premise behind many popular detox diets is to incorporate natural, whole foods into your diet as a means of removing toxins. But really, all we are doing is cutting out the junk many of us commonly eat and instead consuming food we were always intended to eat.
With the rise of stomach issues many of us may think that a detox will set us on the right track, and we believe it based on how much better we feel when detoxing. When we detox we eliminate sugar and artificial and processed foods, so we feel good; however, if you “detox” for a few days or a week only to go back to your regular eating habits, you will once again run into digestion issues.
If you’re asking if a detoxification is good for your digestive health, then the unofficial answer is yes because it promotes eating good, nutritious food. But if you think a detox will fix your digestion issues forever, even after you go back to eating bad food, then no, a detoxification will not benefit your digestive health.
Safe and natural ways to detox your digestive system
If you still wish to embark on a detox as a means to set you on the right track of healthy eating, then there are safe ways to do so. Below are some tips to safely and naturally detox your digestive system.
- Begin by eliminating immediate toxins like caffeine, smoking and alcohol.
- Consume plenty of fiber.
- Drink plenty of green tea.
- Drink lots of water.
- Reduce your stress.
- Consume more fruits and vegetables.
- Minimize your intake of red meat.
- Consume more fermented foods.
- Exercise regularly.
For a successful detoxification it’s important to make changes to all lifestyle habits – not just the food you eat. By living more mindful and improving overall health you can improve your digestive issues and feel “detoxed” in the long run – not just temporarily. It is important to note that food does play an important role in a detoxification, so enjoy the below foods which have been shown to be the best at promoting toxin release and good health.
Foods that help to detox your digestive system
Here are the best foods to incorporate into your detoxification.
- Probiotics
- Prebiotics
- Cayenne
- Herbs
- Chia seeds
- Dark, leafy greens
- Avocados
- Beets
- Artichokes
- Asparagus
- Broccoli
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Grapefruit
- Lemongrass
- Lemons
- Olive oil
- Turmeric
- Wheatgrass
- Apple cider vinegar
These foods work with the body to help promote better health and the elimination of toxins. They are also gentle on your liver which allows it to work better. Even when your detox is done you can still continue to eat these foods to promote natural detoxification.
Always remember, though, prior to beginning a detox you should speak with your doctor to find out if your health permits the necessary changes.
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Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/diet/detox-diets
http://life.gaiam.com/article/10-ways-detoxify-your-body
http://www.livestrong.com/article/112033-safe-natural-detox-digestive-system
http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-16884/7-gut-cleansing-foods-to-add-to-your-diet
https://healthwholeness.com/detox/detox-foods