Yes. And no. Actually, it depends on what you define as a detox. Let’s also not forget that everything in this life is relative. But in order not to talk in riddles, let’s start things from the beginning.

Detox or detoxification we can name the set of processes carried out by our kidneys and liver with the aim of inactivating and eliminating toxic substances (“toxins”) from the body.

The so-called “toxins” include food ingredients, medicines, preservatives, heavy metals, substances in cigarette smoke, gasoline and car exhaust, compounds in plastics and other chemical substances. In addition to the kidneys and liver, the gastrointestinal system, the respiratory system and the sweat glands play an active role in removing substances from the human body through the production of sweat.

Detoxification of the bodyIt is a completely natural process that our body systems can carry out without any extreme or sophisticated diet, or the use of any specific preparation or herb. For the most part, detox diets provide only temporary results, mainly due to fluid loss and a sharp reduction in calories, and can often become very dangerous.

What do we think detox is?
Or else, what detox is NOT

Something that depends on green juices
Don’t feel bad – this dishonorable celery juice has fooled a lot of people. The same goes for those super foods with strange names, which you probably took the trouble to learn about. Certainly a juice, a decoction of herbs, etc. can provide your body with vitamins, minerals, trace elements, macronutrients, etc. and that in itself is wonderful. In terms of detoxification, however, all these “elixirs” do not guarantee you anything more than what your body can do on its own.

What you need “to bounce back” after a hearty meal (or more)
In general, if something like this happens, listen to your body. Eat lighter in the following days, drink enough water, increase your physical activity. You don’t need to throw it into juicing because that’s not what’s going to save the day, at least not in the long run.

What you need to go to the beach

Or to be invited to the revue. Or to deflate after the Easter table. Or to eliminate the stress of everyday life. In general, many good (?) reasons for detoxification have been suggested from time to time. If you want to achieve weight loss, then do it the right way. Reduce your calories, eat good quality foods, exercise more, drink plenty of water and don’t neglect sleep. In general, you don’t need to indulge in anything more than what your grandmother would tell you.

What that Instagram influencer owes her beauty to

Unfortunately or fortunately, this glow is the result of genes, regular exercise, consistency in a balanced diet and of course photoshop and filters. And it’s obviously not due to some herbal tea, the famous chia seeds or acai powder.

What do we keep from all this?

If you like the taste of celery juice or any other juice/product labeled ‘detox’, then cheers. Keep in mind, however, that it is not what you need to “cleanse” your system of toxins or to activate your metabolism.

If you want to really help your system eliminate harmful substances, just keep your kidneys, liver and gastrointestinal system in good condition. Consume fiber, antioxidants, vitamins and trace elements and drink plenty of water. And of course, avoid smoking and alcohol. Otherwise, trust Mother Nature.