Modern life exposes you to all kinds of toxins and pollutants---from the chemical vapors on your dry-cleaned clothes to additives in your foods. There are several ways to detoxify your body. Once you have detoxed your system, keep yourself healthy by eating whole foods, drinking lots of filtered water and getting exercise.

Diet

Detox diets can last from one to 10 days and may include a combination of fasting, foods and laxatives. These diets generally prohibit sugar, caffeine, alcohol, meat and processed foods. Most detox diets begin with a fast followed by a day or two of raw foods and water. Gradually, you can add broth-based soups, herbal teas and juices. Finally, add whole grains, nuts and lean proteins like fish or chicken. Some practitioners of detox diets suggest using an herbal laxative in addition to making these dietary changes. Proceed carefully if you choose to follow a detox diet. Prolonged use of restricted diets and extensive fasting can cause anemia, lethargy and nausea.

Sauna

The sauna is a thousand-year-old Scandinavian tradition. Participants gather in a small wooden room that is heated to high temperatures with hot rocks, infrared beams, or steam to induce sweating. Users report feelings of relaxation, pain relief and general well-being after a sauna session. In the United States, many health clubs and spas feature saunas. Sauna practitioners suggest that your body's natural sweating response releases harmful toxins, metals, ammonia and other acids during sauna. Sauna can be dangerous for those who are pregnant, people with heart problems, and anyone with blood pressure issues. Consult your doctor before participating in sauna.

Colon Cleansing

Colon cleansing or colonic irrigation is the process of introducing warm water, sometimes mixed with herbs or other supplements, into the colon. It aims to clear the digestive system of unwanted toxins, waste buildup and harmful bacteria. If you choose colon cleansing, be sure to work with a reputable practitioner and talk to your medical doctor about any health concerns. According to the Mayo Clinic, colon cleansing can cause electrolyte imbalance and dehydration, and some herbs or laxatives may interfere with medications you are already taking.

Safety Considerations

Always talk to your doctor before beginning any new wellness or diet routine. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience severe nausea, extreme lethargy, heart palpitations or any other unusual symptom after your detox procedure.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Do detox diets offer any health benefts?

Mayo Clinic: Colon cleansing---Is it helpful or harmful?