The aim of a detox is to cleanse the body, and more specifically the liver and kidneys. These organs are particularly in demand during the festive season, for example, and a detox is designed to flush out all the toxins stored in the body. To be effective, this method involves 'resting' the body by feeding it little and with specific foods. It's an excellent way of purifying the body.
What is the purpose of a detox cure?
The main aim of a detox cure is to rid the body of the toxins it accumulates over time. Today's lifestyles, especially in urban areas, expose us to pollution and a host of chemicals such as pesticides in our food, which is becoming increasingly unhealthy, as well as heavy metals and drug treatments. All these elements clog up the body, which, while naturally designed to resist certain attacks, is not necessarily able to eliminate all this waste. A detox cure helps to expel heavy metals and toxins from the body, so that it can get back on track!
The organs most involved in cleansing the body are the liver, which filters toxins from the blood, and the kidneys, which eliminate them in the urine. Following a detox programme serves precisely to stimulate these two areas of the body while purifying them and putting the rest of the body at rest. There are several detoxification methods, some of which include a period of fasting for a few days, others which focus on eating specific foods... The main thing is to evacuate as many toxins as possible, and this process cannot be undertaken at any time.
When should I choose to do a detox?
A detox involves putting your body on pause, so it can't be improvised, and certain times of the year are more suitable than others. It is generally recommended to undertake this type of cure at the change of season, in March and October. After the winter, when the diet is often richer, the body may need to be cleansed. However, it's important not to go without food overnight: a detox needs to be prepared for and requires a fairly low level of fat to be successful. For this reason, it is also advisable to follow a detox diet to lose weight. At this point, the toxins stored in the fat cells are released and can be evacuated. This type of cure is also particularly effective after a long course of medication, which inevitably leaves its mark on the body.
How does a detox cure work?
A detox cure is often seen as a way of losing weight, but it's nothing of the sort! By purifying the body, it can lead to weight loss, but this method works best on a body with a low level of body fat, because a large proportion of the toxins are released and can only be eliminated once the fat cells have melted.
- Before the detox: reduce fatty and sugary foods
For an effective detox, it's important to prepare your body. A week before you start, you should limit the consumption of certain foods. It's advisable to cut down on processed foods, alcohol, coffee, refined sugar, saturated fats, dairy products and red meat. Instead, focus on white meats and fresh vegetables, if possible organically grown.
- During the detox: foods to focus on
While not all detox methods include a fasting period, all favour fresh fruit and vegetables, especially lemons. Lemons boost the production of enzymes and bile, and are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. When it comes to cooking the vegetables you choose, it's best to opt for steaming, which preserves all the nutrients present in the plants. These foods can be accompanied by plenty of water, green tea and mate as beverages. We recommend drinking at least three cups a day. Their diuretic and draining effect means that large quantities of toxins can be quickly eliminated. There are also "monodiet" cures, during which you eat just one food, such as apples, bananas, carrots or grapes.
Detox cures have also helped to raise awareness of the benefits of juicing. Ideally, juices should contain three quarters fresh vegetables and one quarter fruit. There are a huge number of detox juice recipes on the internet, the most interesting ingredients being tomatoes, beetroot, citrus fruit and red fruit. These cures last between 1 and 7 days, and aromatic herbs such as rosemary and peppermint can also be added.
Detox food supplements:
Some detox programmes take the form of dietary supplement cures. There are a number of plants that naturally possess powerful detoxifying properties and, when taken as part of a balanced, healthy diet, these food supplements help to eliminate all the toxins present in the body. Some of the best-known are artichoke, rosemary, ash, dandelion, fennel, burdock, milk thistle and black radish. A detox cure is the ideal thing to do if you want to feel lighter and get back on track. Ecosystem Laboratoire offers a range of detox products in its packs for a complete detox!
