Going on a weight loss journey has likely crossed many people’s minds at least once. Every now and then, you may want to shed a few pounds after the holidays or after being less conscious of your diet. When clothes start to feel tighter, or you notice an increase in the scale, the first thing you may think of is to lose weight. That said, the journey to weight loss is no easy feat and one that requires commitment and dedication.
When it comes to losing weight, people often want to do it fast, which explains why many tend to turn to detox diets to achieve their objective. Detox diets have grown increasingly popular in recent times as they are considered a quick and easy solution. However, it is important to know that these diets tend to be exaggerated and not backed by scientific evidence.
The term detox is short for detoxification and traditionally refers to a medical procedure used to rid the body of harmful substances. However, over time, it has evolved into a number of procedures used to eliminate toxins in the body and relieve symptoms like headaches and bloating. The concept of detoxing has been particularly appealing to health-conscious people who are trying to transition into a healthier lifestyle.
Myth of Weight Loss Detox Diets
The premise of weight loss detox is that you will be modifying your diet for a short time to cleanse your body and promote weight loss. It is believed to help with digestion and boost your immune system, as well as reduce weight from releasing the toxins that you detox. The routine may differ based on the instructions followed by one person, but it generally involves fasting and eliminating many types of food.
The problem, however, with detox diets is that aside from the fact that they are not scientifically proven, they are also unsustainable. They focus on avoiding food that contains toxins and focus more on fruits and vegetables, juice, and laxatives. While water is good for the body, having too much water can also be bad. The moment you get off the diet, you will very likely gain back all the weight you lose since returning to your regular eating habits will not sustain the results.
To add to this, detox diets can lead to poor side effects since you are essentially getting rid of water weight but not fats. Thus, keeping yourself away from food will only cause you to feel weak and low in energy.
Sustainability is Key
If you are trying to lose weight, sustainability is key. It is important to understand that fad diets may cause more harm than good, and once you stop doing them, you will gain back all the pounds. The reality to weight loss is that it is a long and gradual journey, but there is nothing wrong with taking it slow.
To lose weight healthily, you must adjust your diet to ensure you eat balanced meals and more whole foods. You do not have to restrict yourself from junk food completely, but avoiding it will be important. Likewise, reducing your caloric intake and exercising regularly will be equally helpful in your journey.
