Should You Do a Cleanse?
It depends on the type of cleanse! Some cleanses can be beneficial if they focus on whole foods and hydration, while extreme or restrictive cleanses can do more harm than good.
✅ When a Cleanse Might Be Beneficial
A short-term cleanse focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods can help reset your diet and improve digestion. Consider a cleanse if:
- You’ve been eating too much processed food and want a fresh start.
- You have bloating or sluggish digestion and need a gut reset.
- You want to increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and hydration.
Healthy Cleanse Options:
✔️ Whole-food cleanse (fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats)
✔️ Hydration-focused cleanse (water, herbal teas, lemon water)
✔️ Gut-friendly cleanse (probiotics, fiber, bone broth)
❌ When a Cleanse is NOT Recommended
Some cleanses can be too extreme, leading to nutrient deficiencies, fatigue, and even muscle loss. Avoid cleanses that:
- Eliminate entire food groups (unless medically necessary).
- Rely only on juices, teas, or supplements for several days.
- Promise rapid weight loss (this is usually just water weight).
- Include laxatives or extreme fasting (this can cause dehydration).
The Best Alternative?
Rather than doing a drastic cleanse, focus on sustainable detox habits like:
✅ Drinking plenty of water
✅ Eating fiber-rich foods (vegetables, whole grains, seeds)
✅ Avoiding processed foods, alcohol, and excess sugar
✅ Exercising and getting enough sleep
Bottom Line
A gentle, whole-food cleanse can help reset your habits, but your body already detoxes itself naturally. The best “cleanse” is a long-term, balanced diet that supports your liver, kidneys, and gut. 🚀
