When you hear the word ”detox” or “cleanse” do you immediately think of all-liquid diets, expensive supplements and short-term deprivation for short-term gains?
The truth is, a detox doesn’t have to involve any of the above—and if you do it in a healthy, supportive manner, you can achieve lasting results in weight loss, energy gain and overall health.
The following are four myths you may have heard about detoxing or cleansing.
Understandably, these myths may cause you to be hesitant to get started. Keep reading to find out the truth behind these myths and why a wholefoods cleanse program might be just what your body is craving.
Myth # 1: You won’t enjoy anything you’re eating while on a detox or cleanse program.
While you might have to eliminate certain foods that you enjoy, it isn’t all about eating lettuce with a drizzle of olive oil. There are many delicious recipes that can be prepared using healthy ingredients that not only taste amazing, but nourish and detox your body.
The best part is, many of them don’t involve any fancy ingredients and can be prepared even by a cooking novice. In fact, my clients always discover new foods and recipes that they absolutely love that have become staples in their diets long after the programs ends.
Myth #2: You’ll constantly be hungry while on the detox or cleanse program.
While you might end up consuming fewer calories while following the program, you shouldn't feel deprived or hungry. Going on an extremely low-calorie diet can disrupt your hormones and metabolism, making your body less efficient in the long run.
Everyone’s caloric needs are different, so a detox or cleanse should never dictate how many calories you consume. By consuming whole foods that provide you with the right nutrients, you help cleanse your body while feeling satisfied. My clients are often amazed that they never feel hungry during my programs.
Myth #3: You need to do an all-liquid detox or cleanse to remove toxins from your body.
Liquid-only detoxes or cleanses have had more than their fair share of popularity. These types of programs can backfire: Not only do people often gain the weight back as soon as it ends, but such restrictive eating for several days can be detrimental to your health. An effective cleanse will include a variety of whole foods to help nourish your body and produce long-term results.
Myth #4: You will need to buy a lot of expensive supplements.
Supplements involved in a detox or cleanse should be just that, a supplementary part of the program, not the primary source of your nutrition. While on a detox or cleanse, you get most of your vitamins and minerals from whole-food sources.
Supplements may be recommended to help your body make the most of the nutrients it receives from these foods. For example, by including probiotics in your diet, you help your body produce vitamins, absorb minerals and remove toxins from the body.
Aside from the benefits discussed above, cleansing is an incredibly effective way to identify if you have any food sensitivities, balance your hormones, and establish healthy habits for the long term.
I’ve worked with people who not only have lost weight and kept it off, but who have also seen their energy level skyrocket, their skin clear up and even their allergies disappear.
Are you ready to discover the benefits of healthy cleansing for yourself?
Click here to learn more about my upcoming 21 Day Detox / Cleanse program.
Each season I run a detox or cleanse program. Register to secure the early bird price!
What questions or concerns do you have about participating in a cleanse or detox program?
Before you try something new, like a detox or cleanse, it’s normal to feel hesitant. I want to hear from you. Click here to set up time for a quick chat after we can explore your health goals and any concerns.
Vanessa Vanderhoek is a functional medicine nutritionist specializing in the gut microbiome, biochemistry and nutrigenomics. She helps people to regain their health by taking a “food as medicine” approach that's unique to their body.
Whilst based in Canberra (Australia), Vanessa sees clients around the world in her virtual clinic. To get started book an initial consultation by clicking here.