Detoxing is a popular regimen believed to remove toxins from your body. It’s typically anywhere between 2 weeks to 30 days of restricting your diet to mostly water, fruits and vegetables and avoiding unhealthy diet choices (alcohol, smoking, allergen sources, processed foods, etc.). The varieties are endless, from colon cleanses to herbal teas.
People swear by them but here is why the process isn’t as legit as they sell it to be. There is no existing evidence to prove the detoxification process we succumb to for a short period of time is removing toxins. Studies conclude the positive results experienced simply come from the elimination of unhealthy eating habits and the increase in water intake.
What we do know, through science, is that our bodies are built to naturally remove the toxins that enter our bodies through our kidneys, liver, urine, feces and sweat. Keeping yourself well hydrated aids these internal systems.
Water is the ultimate flush for your body. It keeps things moving! From the digestion of food, the absorption of nutrients and ultimately, the removal of waste and toxins.
The Top 5 Benefits of Drinking Water
- Increases energy levels and brain function
- Boosts your immune system
- Flushes out toxins and waste
- Regulates body functions and lubricates joints
- Helps weight management
The amount needed for each person varies with age and activity level but you should aim for at least 8 cups per day. By getting enough water every day, you are effectively eliminating toxins from your body without the need of costly ingredients or supplements.
Tips for Staying Hydrated
- Drink 1 cup within the hour of waking up to get all organs and systems going. It also gives your metabolism a boost.
- Drink 1 cup a half hour before each meal to helps digestion and control calorie intake.
- Drink before, during and after exercise to replenish water lost through perspiration.
- Keep a water bottle on hand throughout your day. It needs to be accessible for you to consume.
- If you feel hungry, drink water first. Thirst is often mistaken for hunger. Downing some water first will confirm if you are really hungry or simply in need of hydration.
- Infuse water with flavors to give a variety of tastes to your drink. Try combinations like lemon and raspberry or cucumber and mint.
Bottom line, with no science to back up the effectiveness of detoxing, it’s hard to justify the strict regimens required. A well-hydrated body will have you cleaned out from the inside and glowing from the outside.