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The body's intestines can build up gunk and grime over time, kind of like the engine of an automobile. Breathing polluted air, drinking alcohol and caffeine, taking prescription or illegal drugs, smoking and eating processed foods can add to the build-up of residue in the intestines, which if not removed can re-absorb back into the blood stream and cause health problems like fatigue, depression and chronic illness. Eating a clean diet is a good way to prevent this build-up, but following a periodic detox diet is the next best thing.
Consume only raw fruits and vegetables and whole grains for a seven-day period. If possible, eat only organic foods that are free of pesticides and chemicals. Good fruit and vegetable choices for detoxification include blueberries, mangoes, bananas, apples, lemons, pears, celery, cucumber, kale, carrots, broccoli and sprouts. You can prepare the fruits and vegetables in any manner you like: dairy-free smoothies, cold soups and salads.
Eat 1/2 cup of organic cooked brown rice with your meal if you feel raw fruits and vegetables are not enough to leave you feeling satiated.
Drink only filtered water, fresh fruit and vegetable juices and decaffeinated green tea for the duration of the detox diet. If you drink juice, make it yourself or drink 100 percent juices without any added sugar.
Refrain from smoking, drinking alcohol and caffeine and taking any unnecessary supplements. Continue to take prescription medications according to your doctor.
Exercise for 30 minutes per day. Run, walk, bike, swim or dance, just get the body moving. Exercise helps the body expel residual toxic substances.
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