Detoxification, or detox for short, is a natural process whereby our body eliminates toxins.   Our bodies transform these toxins into less harmful compounds where they are, quite literally, flushed down the toilet.

It is perfectly normal to have some toxins in our body.  Ammonia, for instance, is a toxin that is produced during the breakdown of protein.  However, other toxins such as food additives, cigarette smoke, pollution and alcohol, to name but a few, are not so natural.

So how can we rid ourselves of these and do we really need to if we already eat a healthy diet and lead a sensible and active lifestyle?

Well, the answer might be to consider going on a Detox Diet.

What is a Detox Diet?

Detoxification is usually thought of as an extreme treatment for drug or alcohol dependence.  However, thanks to certain celebrities embarking on these diets or even creating their own versions of them, it is now a term used regularly for optimum health and even weight loss.

There are several types of detox diets:

• Recommended organic only - to minimize the amount of chemicals ingested.

• Recommended foods rich in vitamins, antioxidants and other nutrients to 'neutralize' toxins.

• Recommended foods high in fibre and water - to increase bowel movements and urination to 'flush' out the toxins.

The Benefits of Detoxing

Often people notice improved energy and digestion, improved concentration, better skin and more regular bowel movements whilst on a detox diet.

The benefit that pleases most people however, is weight loss.  Whilst losing weight may not be the reason to start a detox programme, it often occurs as a result of the increased amount of fresh fruit and vegetables, higher fibre content and increased water intake that a detox diet usually consists of.

Another, longer lasting benefit of embarking on a detox diet however, is that it acts as a springboard for a healthier lifestyle for the future.

The Detox Critics Say……..

• They are not necessary provided you eat a sensible diet and exercise regularly.

• There is no evidence that detox works.

• Most detox products are unproven and very expensive.

Possible Side Effects

One of the most common side effects is headache.  This can last for the first few days of the diet.  As caffeine is not included in a detox programme, any headache experienced is probably down to caffeine withdrawal.  Diarrhea or even constipation may occur depending on fluid intake and the fibre content of the diet itself.  As the body starts to flush out the toxins other side effects can occur such as tiredness, acne and irritability but these usually quickly pass.  If not, consult your GP.

What's Allowed?

• Generally, most detox diets allow fruit and fruit juices as long as they are 'pure' and 'unsweetened'.  Any vegetables including fresh, tinned (no added salt or sugar) and frozen.  Beans and lentils will give you plenty of fibre.  These can be dried and re-hydrated or tinned (no added salt or sugar).

• When it comes to meat, fish and other proteins, most detox diets recommend white organic meat such as chicken and turkey only.   These are also naturally low fat.  Fish should be fresh and can include white fish and oily varieties such as salmon and mackerel.  Tofu and Quorn products as also recommended.

• Rice should be brown rice.  Oats should be organic if possible.  Nuts and seeds are highly recommended but should be unsalted.

• Recipes can be livened up with natural flavours such as fresh herbs and garlic, black pepper, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey and live natural yogurt.

• Snacks such as organic oatcakes, rice cakes and crackers are permitted.

What's Not Allowed?

• Red meats and meat products such as sausages, burgers and pate.

• Dairy products such as milk, cheese, eggs, cream, butter and margarine.

• Wheat products such as bread, cereals, cakes, pastries and biscuits.

• Crisps, salted nuts, savoury snacks and sweets, including chocolate.

• Refined sugar products - jam etc.

• Coffee and tea and alcohol - although some detox diets do allow organic red wine.

• Salt

• Carbonated drinks (diet versions or otherwise)

• Shop bought sauces and flavourings which contain additives and preservatives.

When and How Often To Detox

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to timing a detox, however, given that you will improve your energy levels, digestion, have clearer skin and in all probability lose weight, planning it several weeks prior to your summer holiday may have significant benefits in terms of wearing a bikini!!

It is not recommended to detox more than twice a year.

To Summarise…..

Our bodies embark on a detoxification process naturally.  Assuming that you eat a healthy diet consisting of plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and fibre, you keep red meats to a minimum, watch your fat intake (particularly saturated fats), drink plenty of water and limit alcohol consumption, you probably don't need to detox at all.  If, on the other hand, your diet is lacking in all of the above, then detoxing, or should I just call it eating healthily (!), for a while will do you the power of good.