The season of marriages, festivities and indulgence begins with Diwali and ends after Holi. Now that spring is in the air, it is the right time to think about a diet to rejuvenate and clean-up the clogged digestive system. Spring season is about shaking off the weight of winter and getting revved up for summer. If you are feeling sluggish or struggling with skin and digestive problems, try a Detox Diet for a week. When the toxins stored in your cells are mobilised, they must be eliminated from the body through faeces, urine or sweat. Through detoxification, you cleanse your intestines, kidneys and liver. Practised for centuries by different cultures around the world, detoxification is about cleaning and nourishing the body from the inside out. According to Ayurveda, the detoxification of the body (Panchkarma) is essential, and should be completed before undertaking any other major treatment. Detoxification is recommended even for healthy people - once every five years - to rid themselves of the accumulated impurities and chemical toxins.
When you eliminate toxins and nourish your body with healthy nutrients, your body is able to replenish itself and stay healthy. Lack of physical activity, stress and over-eating can result in poor circulation within your body. The best way to get the blood flowing is to detox your body, and exercise. The key is to choose the diet that best matches your health, energy level and lifestyle. Because the foods recommended in a Detox Diet are high in fibre and fluids and low in fat, the vital organs in your body get to cleanse themselves. The total food intake is not restricted; instead, many unhealthy foods are omitted. Most Detox Diets keep you away from complex carbohydrates, wheat and gluten. The Detox Diet often provides the nutrients needed to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria. Along with healthy eating, some people prefer to also sweat it out in a sauna, so that their body can eliminate wastes through perspiration too. It is a good idea to incorporate mind/body practices, such as yoga and pranayam, to relax your body and help relieve stress. Stress can impair the body’s detoxification systems and lead to digestive ailments and impaired immunity. Some people also take an enema for clearing their digestive system. Pregnant and lactating women, and diabetics, should avoid going on a Detox program. Also make sure to introduce grains, milk and foods gradually. If a Detox Diet does not suit you, stop it immediately and consult your nutritionist.
Simple changes, such as drinking more fluids, eating more vegetables or eliminating wheat can have a profound effect on how you feel. A Detox Diet includes plenty of fresh vegetables, fruit and anti-inflammatory foods – such as nuts, fresh juices, raw vegetables, lemon juice, green tea, warm water, buttermilk, coconut water, thin dals and soups. Begin the day with a glass of warm water with honey, to cleanse your intestines. Eat egg whites or some nuts along with coconut water for breakfast. Lunch can include fruit, soups, dals and salads. Try green tea instead of your regular tea or coffee in the evening. Dinner can be something similar to lunch. You can also consume some psyllium husk in a large glass of water, to aid the detoxification process and improve your bowel movement. Some foods and drinks, such as coffee and sugar, are slowly phased out.
Read More...