The Most Common Detox Questions Answered

Q: How do I know if I need to detox?

A: Put simply, you need to detox when your body is overloaded with toxins. These toxins present differently in everybody but some common signs include bad skin, having problems with weight and constantly lacking energy. 

Our bodies actually detoxify naturally, but after constant exposure to toxins, the process can become compromised and our body can struggle to cleanse our organs and tissues properly. Eating a diet that incorporates a lot of meat, dairy and processed or fatty foods can clog the system. Regardless of your diet choices, the state of your detoxification mechanisms and your exposure to toxins (not just food, but chemicals too), just about everyone can benefit from the occasional detox. Think of it as a way to reboot your system, giving your body a fresh start.

 

Q: What exactly does a detox involve?

A: Detoxes vary a lot and depend on the individual, their goals and level of health. Generally they involve a combination of natural health products, dietary improvements and lifestyle changes. Detoxes are designed to encourage the removal of toxins from your body, improving your liver function and overall well-being.

Q: Do I have to eat differently during a detox?

A: Most of the time, a change in diet is necessary, but it depends on your usual diet and the detox programme you’ve chosen. It’s best to eat foods that can be digested easily, and of course natural, wholesome food is always preferred. Steamed or raw vegetables, chicken, fish, soups and broths are all good options. Try to eat what’s in season too, as this will ensure you’re getting the appropriate nutrients for your body. At the end of the day, it really comes down to what works for you. While some people can survive quite happily on raw salads and grains, others need more variety.

Q: Do I have to give up coffee and wine?

A: Unfortunately, yes. Both coffee and alcohol are really difficult for your liver to process. For the best result, it’s important to give up both for the duration of your detox; you’ll feel better at the end of it. It’s a good idea to start weaning yourself off caffeine and alcohol for a little while before you start your detox – it makes the adjustment a lot easier!

Q: How often should you detox?

A: While it’s reasonably common practice to do two detoxes a year, it really depends on your lifestyle. There is no reason why you can’t do more if you feel you need them. If you’re feeling sluggish or if you’ve been eating a lot of processed foods, it could be a good time for a cleanse.

Q: Will I lose weight by doing a cleanse or detox?

A: Often people will lose weight while detoxing, particularly around their face and stomach, but it’s important to remember that the purpose of a detox is to cleanse your organs, not to shed kilograms. With that said, doing a cleanse before you start a weight loss programme is a great way to condition your body for the journey.

The weight loss usually happens because you start to retain less water. Water retention can occur as a result of sugar consumption, food intolerances and excess carbs. Cutting these out of your diet also improves bloating.

Q: How will I know if the detox is working?

A: Everybody is different and the effects of a detox vary. A cleanse works by releasing the toxins and as they work their way out of your body, they can cause a variety of side-effects along the way. It is quite normal to feel worse before you feel better. Sometimes people experience headaches, fatigue, nausea and even flu-like symptoms. Others experience bad skin, stronger smelling sweat and urine or a coating on their tongue that causes bad breath. While these kinds of symptoms are all signs that your body is detoxifying, they can be quite overwhelming, even if they are temporary. If they continue, you should consult your healthcare professional.

Q: How long should I detox for?

A: It all comes down to the detox programme you’re doing and how much it’s impacting your body. Most people find seven days is long enough, but if it feels good, there’s nothing to say you can’t continue detoxing for twenty or even thirty days.

Sometimes it’s nice to have options. Good Health offers a full body cleanse that can be used as a seven day rapid detox or a one month gradual cleanse. You don’t always have to commit to an all or nothing detox either. Good Health Multi Cleanse and Good Health Liver Tonic are both nice one-capsule-a-day options that are designed to cleanse the liver.

Q: When is the best time to start a detox?

A: Spring is a really nice time of year for a little internal cleaning. A change in season in general is a great time to do a detox. It’s during these times that our body’s requirements change, so doing a week or month-long detox can give you a boost of energy right when you need it. Otherwise, it’s always a good idea to do a detox after a time of consistent overindulgence.

On the flip side, there are times where detoxing is not a good idea. Doing a cleanse while you’re pregnant, stressed, sick or still recovering is not recommended.

Q: Can I take my regular supplements and medication during a cleanse?

A: Often you can continue taking your medication or supplements while your detoxing, but it depends what they are. It’s always best to check with your healthcare professional before starting a cleanse, just to be sure.

Q: Can I exercise while I’m detoxing?

A: You can, but don’t overdo it. Sweating can help your body to detoxify, but it’s best to exercise caution. Your body needs rest during a detox and if your programme includes fasting or a large decrease in calories, you may not have as much energy to burn.

The benefits of a good detox are incredible, but it’s not a journey you should embark on lightly. If you’ve never done one before, it’s a good idea to talk to your healthcare professional first. Together you can figure out what the most suitable option is for you, ensuring you can get the best results.