RELATED: Detox Your Organs With These 5 Foods
Are all Fasting Programs Considered “Detoxes” and “Cleanses”?
Although some fasting programs are advertised with “detoxification” claims, other fasting programs—including intermittent fasting and periodic fasting—are being researched for health promotion, disease prevention, improved aging, and in some cases, weight loss.
There’s also an emerging body of evidence showing the benefits of intermittent fasting for type 2 diabetes and obesity are similar to those of a calorie-restricted diet but easier to follow. Research shows intermittent fasting reduces inflammation, lowers blood pressure, heart rate, and cholesterol, and reduces insulin resistance.
Your Body’s Detoxification System
The good news is you don’t need “detoxes” or “cleanses” to purify your body. Our bodies are equipped with a five-organ system (skin, kidney, intestine, lymphatic, and liver) that works day and night to metabolize fat, fight inflammation, remove harmful toxins, and filter out built-up waste.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle with lots of whole food, fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs, and spices can invigorate, strengthen and support your body’s natural detoxification system. On the other hand, eating highly processed foods loaded with artificial ingredients, such as preservatives and additives, can add more toxins to your body.