DIY Detox Diet

Detoxing the body flushes salts, fats and toxins.

A detox can be completed without buying expensive detox kits. In fact, a DIY detox can include nothing but fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs. Such a diet is designed to cleanse the body of toxins and fats that have been either consumed or absorbed, leaving you looking and feeling healthier, inside and out. According to "The Complete Illustrated Book of Herbs," one week is a good amount of time to run a detox.

Things You'll Need

• 2 teaspoons dried dandelion
• 1 teaspoon dried red clover
• 1 teaspoon dried alfalfa
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 cups boiling water
• Fresh fruits
• Fresh vegetables
• Fresh lemon
• Water

Instructions

1. 

   Some teas are good for cleansing the body.

   Drink a detoxifying tea each day for the duration of the DIY detox. According to "The Complete Illustrated Book of Herbs," dandelion is an excellent detoxifying agent. Boil 2 teaspoons dried dandelion, 1 teaspoon dried red clover, 1 teaspoon dried alfalfa and 1 teaspoon lemon zest in two cups of water, strain and drink. This tea can be refrigerated and warmed up when needed. The book suggests drinking two to three glasses each day.

2. 

   Fruits are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

   Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals by snacking on fresh fruits and vegetables. The Washington Post's article "Detox After The Holidays" suggests including fresh-squeezed orange juice and fruits, like strawberries, with breakfast. Lunch should be rich in vegetables, and so should dinner. For protein, pass on meats and go for nuts. Nuts are rich in good fats and give the body energy.

3. 

   Smoking puts harmful toxins in the body.

   Avoid all processed, salty and sugary foods during the entire detox, as they introduce toxins in the body. Do not drink caffeine or smoke during a detox either -- these defeat the purpose of a healthy refresher.

4. 

   Water is both refreshing and hydrating.

   Drink plenty of water with fresh lemon. The lemon acts as a natural cleanser, says "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies." Everyone should drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day to stay healthy and avoid dehydration. During a detox regimen it is more important to stay hydrated.

References

• Washington Post: Detox After The Holidays
• "The Complete Illustrated Book of Herbs"; Reader's Digest; 2009
• "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies"; C. Norman Shealy; 2002