One of the most frequent questions that many people have about going on a detox diet is what type of food they will eat while on the diet. The types of foods that can be eaten while on a detox diet will vary based on the specific type of diet that you are on. There are certain types of foods and natural herbs that are designed to provide specific benefits and affect the body in a certain way. This is why some detox diets focus on certain foods and herbs while others focus on other types of foods and diets. Below we will go through some of the most common foods that are usually included in detox diets.
Fruits
Many detox diets focus on either fresh or frozen fruits. The specific types of fruits will vary based on the diet. For example, a kidney flush might include cranberries.
Vegetables
Most detox diets will also include plenty of fresh vegetables. Vegetables are considered to be a good food when on a detox diet because they help to clean out the digestive system. Good examples include onions, artichokes, garlic, beets, cauliflower, broccoli and lots of green and red vegetables.
Grains
Grains are also commonly included in detox diets, including buckwheat, millet, amaranth and quinoa. Rice may also be included as well, particularly brown rice.
Seeds and Nuts
A variety of different types of seeds and nuts may be included based upon the specific type of detox diet that you are using. Good options for seeds and nuts include pumpkin seeds, flaxseed, sunflower seeds, walnuts, cashews, almonds and sesame seeds.
Teas
Teas can also be quite helpful when on a detox diet, especially green tea and herbal teas.
Beverages
Other types of beverages that may be allowed in a detox diet include rice milk, vegetable and fruit juices, lemon water and plain water.
Foods to Avoid
You should also understand the foods that should generally be avoided when on a detox diet.
Dairy Products :
In most detox diets, you will find that dairy products are eliminated or at least reduced. This includes cream cheese, milk, butter and sour cream.
Sugar
Sugar is also commonly avoided in a detox diet. This includes sugar as well as any products that may contain sugar, even forms of sugar that you might not immediately recognize such as corn syrup, dextrose, sucrose and brown sugar. In addition, artificial sweeteners are typically not allowed either.
Gluten
Gluten products are commonly avoided.
Wheat
Products containing wheat, including pasta and bread, are also commonly avoided.
Coffee
In most detox diets you will find that coffee is not recommended. This includes both regular as well as decaffeinated coffee.
Other foods that may be avoided in a detox diet include chocolate, foods that are high in fat, foods that contain a lot of additives and preservatives, alcohol and yeast.