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Is a 7 Day Detox Diet Effective for Weight Loss? By Elena Mauceri
A 7 day detox diet is a very effective way to kick off a weight loss diet. You can expect to lose anywhere from 2 pounds to 5 pounds on this diet, some of which will be water weight. An added benefit is that when the 7 days are over, you'll find that your cravings are diminished, so following a weight loss diet will be much easier. During a 7 day detox diet, you will eliminate foods and chemicals that burden the body. This allows the body to better eliminate stored toxins so that weight loss can be achieved more easily. Lemon Juice You may also have heard of a lemon detox diet. Consuming anything sour makes the liver and gallbladder purge any stored toxins. Lemon juice works particularly well because it also supplies the body with a good dose of vitamin C. Use the juice from half a lemon in a cup of hot water in the morning. The morning is when our bodies are in a natural cleansing phase, so it is a good time to consume cleansing foods and juices. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions: "What's the difference between detoxing and fasting?" By definition, fasting is a time period of at least one day in which nothing but water is consumed. Fasting provides a way for your organs to rest and heal. During a fast, any stored toxins are released and eliminated--this is what detoxing is. There are ways to detox other than fasting. I don't advise water-only fasts, as this can create problems with low blood sugar, which can be dangerous. However, a periodic modified fast can be effective for weight loss. Just do it under the supervision of a physician. "How will I feel?" You may feel worse during a detox, but this is a sign that the detox process is working. As you do this 7 day detox diet, toxins will be released from your fat cells. When they enter your bloodstream, you may feel worse until you excrete them. But stick to the plan, and you'll ensure that you flush out those toxins. As a result of these stored toxins being released, your breath and sweat may smell unpleasant. You may also feel nauseous and achy. You may feel irritable, tired, and depressed. But these symptoms should subside after a few days. The detox process will be much easier if you can slate a vacation week, or a week where you know that your work schedule will be lighter and less stressful. You will want to have plenty of time for relaxing and letting your body heal. "This doesn't sound like much fun. What are the benefits of detoxing?" The benefits are great: - increased energy - clearer thinking - balanced hormones, and less mood swings - less abdominal bloating - clear, vibrant skin - better sleep And a 7 day detox diet is a great way to kick start a weight loss diet and ensure permanent weight loss success. |