Updated February 02, 2015.
Written or reviewed by a board-certified physician. See About.com's Medical Review Board.
The most common type of detox diet is a food-based cleanse, which includes plenty of fresh vegetables, fruit, anti-inflammatory foods, and fluids. Dairy, wheat, gluten, sugar, and fried and processed foods are typically not allowed on the diet.
Take the Detox Diet Quiz
Before finding out more about what the diet entails, become familiar with the possible symptoms of toxicity by taking the Detox Screening Quiz
.
What to Eat on a 7-Day Detox Diet
1) What to Eat Before the Diet: Certain foods and drinks such as coffee and sugar are typically phased out before starting the diet in order to avoid headaches and other reactions. Find out how to prepare for a detox.
2) Foods to Eat: Here is a sample list of foods to eat during a 7-day detox.
3) Foods to Avoid: A sample list of foods to exclude on a 7-day detox.
4) Sample Menu Plan: Although meals can be made from any of the allowed detox foods, it helps to have a sample menu plan.
5) Top 20 Detox Foods: Want to know what some of the star players of the diet are? Find out our top 20 detox foods and get tips on how to use them.
The 7-day food-based detox diet is designed for a newbie, for someone who wants to do a longer cleanse (7 to 21 days), for people who aren't able to go on a more restrictive diet due to time or work constraints, or for people who are generally exhausted and require more protein in their diet (take the adrenal fatigue quiz). While the
plan outlined here is for 7 days, it may be followed for up to 21 days.
There are many types of cleanses, from 3-day juice fasts to detoxes that allow three meals per day. While it may be tempting to make a drastic change by trying a fast, sometimes simple changes such as drinking more fluids, eating more vegetables, or eliminating wheat can have a profound effect on how we feel. The key is to choose the diet that best matches a persons health, energy level and lifestyle.
Other Steps to a Detox Diet Plan
Diet is just one component of any well-designed cleanse. In addition with an eating plan, there are other important steps:
1) Enhance Circulation: A lack of physical activity may result in poor circulation which can have a negative effect on health and impair detoxification and immune function. The best way to get blood pumping is to exercise. Contrast showers and dry skin brushing are sometimes used and can be done before or after a regular shower.
2) Promote Elimination: When toxins that are stored in body cells are mobilized, they travel to our blood and should be eliminated from the body through stool, urine, or sweat or they can be reabsorbed and recirculated. Sometimes our organs of elimination are sluggish due to inactivity and poor diet. Eating foods that prevent constipation may help. Under a doctor's supervision, herbal laxatives such as senna tea or cascara, colonics, or enemas may also be used.
3) Improve Digestion: Promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines in order to keep potentially harmful bacteria in check. Bad bacteria, in excess, may produce toxins that impair the intestinal lining, get absorbed into the bloodstream, and injure cell membranes in the body. Fermented foods (such as kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi) are an example of foods that may help to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria. Probiotics can also be supplemented.
Many detox diets exclude common food sensitivities such as wheat and gluten-containing foods. A properly chosen diet supports the liver by providing it with protein, antioxidants, vitamin, and other nutrients so that it can detoxify efficiently. Supplements can also be taken under your healthcare provider's supervision, such as protein powder and vitamins, antioxidants, herbs for the liver, or detox teas.
4) Mind/Body Wellness: Stress can impair the bodys detoxification systems and lead to digestive ailments, impaired immunity, and have wide-ranging effects on health. A detox diet is a time not just to let the body heal, but to allow the mind to rest. Try to incorporate mind/body practices into your detox, such as diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation.
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Common Questions
Here are the answers to some of the more commonly asked questions about this type of diet.
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Disclaimer: The information contained on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician. It is not meant to cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstances or adverse effects. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen.
Take the Detox Diet Quiz. Before finding out more about what the diet entails, become familiar with the possible symptoms of toxicity by taking the Detox Screening Quiz.
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