Many of us feel that we over indulged during the holidays.  And many of you might be thinking about a “detox” to make up for the damaged caused by seasonal cheer.  Some popular “detox” regimen include; total water fast, juice diet, pharmaceutical drinks, colonics or the master cleanse concoction of salt water, lemon juice, maple syrup and cayenne pepper.  Some cleanse consist of restrictions on sugar, dairy, gluten, meat, alchohol and coffee.

However, any claims that “cleanse” cure the body of ailments are not backed by science.  Mainstream science cites that the body has its own efficient mechanism to maintain balance PH and fluid levels in the body.  Fasting can put the body in an unnatural state, risking damage from dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, disrupting bowel functions and effections.  Eastern Concepts such as balance and energy have in place in today’s practice of medicine, playing into the idea that diet in its totality can help determine whether we are well or sick.  For example eating red meat sparks the inflammatory prcocess linked to heart disease.  Eating fish high in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as Wild Caught Salmon cools down the inflammation down.  One theory is that the body age-old detoxification system is continually under assault from modern day environmental pollutants.  Lower calorie regimen allows the body to shed free radicals that promote illness and accumulation in the the fat cells.  Free radicals then enter the blood stream to be process  by the liver and excreted from the body.  However, the liver cannot do its job if it doesn’t  have proper nutritional support.  Eating whole foods and leading a balanced lifestyle maybe the best bet instead of expensive and potentially toxic pharmaceuticals.  For most of us, eliminating refined sugar, alcohol and caffeine, increasing fruit and vegetables intake and avoiding  hormone and antibodies in our food will increase our energy.  The “detox” that focuses on healthy eating will become part of your daily routine.  Helping you change your eating habits permanently.

TIPS FOR A HEALTH “DETOX” REGIMEN

• Eat large amount of fresh fruits and vegetables such as cabbage, bok choy, brocoli and cauliflower that contain high anti-oxidant that help the liver break down toxins
• Eliminate refined sugars.  This source of unwanted calories can increase insulin levels; this cause more inflammation in the body.
• Avoid Antibodies and hormone in animal products that can accumulate in the body, contributing  to antibiotic resistance.
• Avoid caffeine, which can actually contribute to fatigue by revving you before a crush.  After a few days you may actually sleep better.