Thanks to my lack of interest in all things diet and fitness, I first heard of detox diets only in 2007. As I kept hearing more about the benefits of these caffeine-free, fibre-filled body-cleansing food plans, I could help but be intrigued. And that’s how I put myself upto my first three-day detox diet (or what I now call my biggest eye-opener). Many detox diets have followed but that first one taught me more than I expected. So here goes…
Detox diets make you irritable.
On my first detox diet, biting off people’s heads became much easier than chewing on raw carrot. Turns out the sugar-loving, carb-craving monster in me was being deprived and how! And well, this was her way of revolting. Poor husband and colleagues! 🙁
Detox diets could give you dragon breath.
Okay so I was unaffected on Day 1; but by Day 2, I was acutely aware that my breath was far from minty fresh. By Day 3, I figured, tongue cleaning and mouth rinses were of utmost importance, several times through the day. Thankfully, I was home and could afford that luxury.
Detox diets can give you the big BO.
Don’t be shocked. Body odour is a common problem you could face when on a detox diet, especially if you are one of those who… errr… have active sweat glands! Relax, it’s a good sign. It just means that your detox diet is working and the toxins are being released in the form of sweat (the stinky kind!) I was spared this ordeal though. Phew!
Detox diets give you headaches.
I’m one of those creatures who remain zombie-like till I’ve had my morning cuppa. So naturally, the withdrawal symptoms had me with a heavy head by noon that progressively turned into a nagging headache as the day went on. Drinking plenty of water and my fair share of green tea helped me get through, but not without a some discomfort. I hear rubbing your temples and firmly pressing the bridge of your nose with your thumbs helps too.
Detox diets have you in the washroom for a good part of your day.
What do you expect with all that water and fluid-guzzling? So yes, on days when I’m at work, I land up making as many as 10 trips to the washroom. The only consolation: my detox diet is actually working! Yippiieee!!
Detox diets could land you up with diarrhoea or constipation!
I didn’t realise that increasing my fibre intake and not my water intake could leave me constipated. The exact opposite is also true for some. So I’d advise you understand your body and accordingly pick your fibre foods.
Detox diets could lead to acne.
I’ve always had an acne problem but I seem to have gotten rid of it after I got married. (Not that the two are connected.) Anyhoo, my detox diet caused me to erupt, though not terribly. With a cream recommended by my dermatologist I was sorted.
I’ve also heard how detox diets cause fatigue, flatulence and more unpleasant body changes. But I certainly hope I haven’t ruined it for you. Because trust me, despite the many drawbacks, the benefits are hard to turn down. Clearer, brighter skin, regularised bowel movements, a lighter system… I could go on! So when did you last detox?
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