Society is consumed with everything 'fast', from fast living and fast cars to fast foods. Many people think that as a result of our hectic and modern lifestyle, we are filled up with "poisons" from polluted air and food additives. You may thus be easily convinced to turn to a detox diet as a way of 'cleansing' or 'detoxifying' your body.

Detox diets refer to a dietary regime that often requires you to give up certain kind of foods that are considered to contain toxins.

These diets claim to remove the toxins that accumulate in the body and promise weight loss, improved digestion, healthy looking skin, hair and nail, energy levels being boosted and a stronger immune system.

Detox diets are usually temporary and could last from one day to one month. There are many types of detox diets, including:

  • Eating only a limited range of foods

  • Raw foodism: eating only raw fruits and vegetables

  • Fasting: drinking only water or juice

  • Cutting out wheat and food that contains dairy products

  • Avoiding caffeine and alcohol

These detox diets are not always the healthier option as many of them can be extreme.

By restricting the intake of specific food and liquids, it not only limits the amount of energy that is put into the body, but also reduces the amount of nutrients that are important for our health and wellbeing.

This may lead to certain deficiencies and may compromise your immune system. As a result you may feel sick and have headaches.

Detox diets are especially not recommended for people with diabetes, low-blood sugar, kidney disease and chronic conditions such as heart disease.

A better way?

Avoiding a large intake of caffeine, alcohol and food high in sugar and saturated fat is prudent, but in order for one to maintain optimal it is best to follow a well-balanced and nutritional diet.

The body is designed to purify itself and its natural detoxification system (the liver and kidneys) will fulfil this role when you follow a healthy lifestyle.

By including fresh fruit and vegetables, plenty of fibre, lean meat and fish high in omega 3, low fat dairy products and plenty of water in your diet, your body will naturally detox itself.

For more information on a healthy balanced diet and heart healthy habits contact the Heart and Stroke Foundation's Heart Mark Diet Line on 0860 223 222 or visit www.heartfoundation.co.za