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A few years ago the term detox led to raised eyebrows, now we have all become experts on it. That is to say, the act of purifying the body, to free it from toxins and waste so that it becomes lighter, more energetic and younger. Some recommend a five day diet on juice alone, some eat nothing but fruit whilst others eliminate alcohol and coffee completely. And then there are those who dismiss detox as a mere marketing operation aimed at selling more beetroot and green tea.
Let’s leave scientists and nutritionists to sort it out for themselves, while we stick to the hard facts: after the Christmas binge, a certain period of time (even one day or a meal) spent detoxifying can only do us good. Even if they do not slow down the cell ageing process or get rid of toxins, these five tips will help us feel better teaching how to detox with food and dissipate the guilty feeling regarding that extra slice of cake.
1. GETTING OFF TO A GOOD START
An excellent habit is to drink one glass of lukewarm water and lemon before having breakfast. It reduces body acidity (lemon is highly alkaline), facilitates digestion, has a diuretic effect and also contains vitamins.
2. BACK TO BASICS
We are all aware that preservatives, additives, hydrogenated oils, added sugar and the like should be consumed as little as possible. Better still, not at all. Two New Year resolutions: reduce your consumption of packaged products, ready-to-serve foods and industrially made junk food in general. And let’s get back to the kitchen stove.
3. VEGGIES COME ON MY WAY ...
... junk foods go away. OK, it’s a terrible rhyme but the meaning is clear: eat more vegetables. The detoxifying qualities of watercress, artichoke, beetroot, blueberries, grapefruit and cabbage are well known. Eat them raw, or cooked in a way that preserves their vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.
4. YOU CAN NEVER GET ENOUGH WATER
8 glasses of water a day. No, 10 are preferable. It is better to quantify the amount in terms of litres. Drink water between meals. No, it is better to drink it during meals. When it comes to water, there are many doubts and one certainty: drink a lot and often because it’s good for you. The best way to clean the body.
5. KEEP AN EYE ON THESE TWO
The odd glass of wine and a coffee with colleagues... and before we realize it, every week we consume quantities of alcohol and caffeine which (as well as causing mild addiction), are not exactly consistent with a detox lifestyle.
