April 9, 2017
As you may have noticed, “detox” and “cleanse” seem to be the new buzz words in the nutrition world lately. Maybe you have had a friend try a soup detox or a lemonade cleanse and are starting to wonder if there is any hope behind the hype…
Good news! Detoxification has been around for centuries. In fact it is one of the oldest known medical treatments on earth. Used as a way to purify the body and get rid of any build up of excess toxins or acidities, detoxing, or cleansing can be a wonderfully useful tool.
You should be ware though, detoxing shouldn’t just be looked at as a weight loss program. Although you will most likely lose weight while cleansing, you should think about it as a way for the body to reset, recharge, and clean house. And after the cleanse is finished, using it as a jumping off point for a new lighter, cleaner way of eating.
Not sure if cleansing is for you? Here are five reasons why it might be…
Sugar. Most of us have at one point or another (and probably without even realizing it) become addicted to sugar. Even though we may try to avoid it, if you eat anything processed you are probably eating sweeteners you didn’t even know were there.
Alcohol. One drink or five can all start to take it’s toll on our liver. It’s always a good idea to give it a chance to clear out and regenerate!
Caffeine. We all know (or maybe are) someone who CAN NOT start their day without a cup of coffee. Or can’t get through the afternoon with out a mountain dew. While coffee can contain certain health benefits, it’s definitely not a reason to freely consume 8 cups a day! Lets face it, that much stimulation we just need a break from!
Nicotine. Now I would say most of us have done a good job at putting down those nasty little sticks, but some still indulge or have at some point. For those of you that have never picked one up- great job! For those of you that have……(need I say more?)
Chemicals. No matter how much we try to live holistically, and eat organically, we can not live in a bubble. Chemicals are everywhere and our bodies are constantly working to remove and neutralize them.
Next time you feel run down, congested, overworked, overtired, stressed out, or realize you are staring to show your age, it might be time for a detox:)
