Many people decide to complete an at-home detox or a “body cleanse” at home in attempt to remedy their “problem” of eating or drinking too much. Detoxification is a process by which the body naturally dispels any toxic or unhealthy substances. When it comes to healthy living, there are natural ways to ensure toxins are released. Dr. Edward Group tells the Global Healing Center several ways to detox the body in a natural and healthy way: eating the right foods, exercising and meditating, purifying the air you breathe, and drinking plenty of water. There are ways to detox that are completely bad for a person’s health, however. If you choose to detox, here is what NOT to do:
- Juicing. U.S. News stated in 2014 that juice cleanses are often low in protein, and when used long-term, can be dangerous. Caroline Cederquist, a physician specializing in nutrition, stated in an interview that “When we don’t have adequate protein in our body, it breaks down muscle tissue instead. Cleanses can actually cause you to lose muscle, not fat.”
- Using diuretics. The body works naturally to ensure there is enough water to keep all organs functioning properly. Diuretics disturb this process and may force your body to lose more water than usual, also pushing out any electrolytes that the body needs. Dr. Oz states “If too much water and too many electrolytes are lost, organs can start to malfunction.” Symptoms of this include cramps, fatigue, dizziness and weakness, vomiting, and swelling.
- Using tea to detox. Dr. Karin Kratina, a nationally recognized nutrition therapist, told Teen Vogue that many teas contain caffeine, which can either promote weight loss or weight gain, and dandelion root is another common diuretic included in teas. “The weight loss [from detox teas] is primarily, and probably all, water weight. If true weight loss occurs, it is because of a caloric deficit also occurred from a change in eating habits.”
What we put into our body is just as important as what comes out of it. Several studies have shown that the body can naturally detox itself without the need of highly marketing “detox programs” and “cleanses”. Taking steps towards bettering your health daily such as eating healthier, exercising appropriately and engaging in mental health exercises are just a few ways to maintain your overall health.
If you have an eating disorder and are ready to seek treatment, call us today at 888-958-7511. Avalon Malibu is a mental health and addiction recovery treatment center that focuses on the person, meaning that we will work with you to restore your mind, body, and spirit. Recovery is still possible, and you do not have to continue living this way. Call us today for a consultation.
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