What is a detox, or as some call it a cleanse? Doing a detox refers to doing just that, detoxifying your body from the inside out. Today everyone of us comes into millions of pollutants, chemicals, and toxins, metals, and parasites. They are in our air, in our food, in many of our cosmetics and body products. Even if we tried to live completely green, natural lives it would still be impossible to avoid them all.

In time these toxins build up and most are never expelled. Our bodies were never meant to take in these dangerous substances and therefore are not completely capable of disposing of them. As toxins accumulate, they cause numerous problems like chronic diseases, lowered metabolisms, and low energy levels. We store up all this garbage in our systems and don't even realize most the time that it's there and how it is negatively affecting us.

After you perform a detox there are so many positive ways it will improve your overall health. Some of the most obvious are the following:

• more lasting energy
• better concentration
• better sleep
• healthy weight loss
• easing of chronic pains
• boosted immune system
• improved skin appearance and health
• better blood pressure levels
• feeling a whole lot better overall

There are many effective methods of eliminating these toxins by doing a body cleanse, a detox. Some are more complicated than others, some will cost you more than others. You can decide which method and recipes you want to use but there are some general things to look for and keep in mind when deciding which route to go.

Consider the following:

The amount of time it will require. During a detox program your body will go through a rapid cleansing and you may experience some side effects. This is completely normal but you may not be able to function at your best so consider this if you are working, driving, or sticking to a strict schedule. The side effects may include: fatigue, headaches, increased urination, diarrhea, and nausea. You will need to drink plenty of water and get sufficient rest. Your body is working to get rid of these things that hurt you, so you'll have to be patient knowing this is a temporary downside to feeling much better permanently.

When researching detox methods make sure the process safe, natural, and nutritious. Cleanses require a fasting period. During this time you want to be sure you are drinking plenty liquids and getting the right nutrition. Be extra careful if you look into any detoxifying pills. Many are not totally natural and sometimes have animal products in them. You want to avoid these as they often contain hormones, chemicals, and salt which defeat the purpose of cleansing in the first place. These products are just out to make a buck, so be weary.

Stick strictly to the instructions of the detox and do not veer off path. The cleanse will not work properly if you add in other foods or drinks. A detox program is very specifically designed and you want to get the most out of it.

Last of all, if you are following through with a cleanse and you start to feel uneasy or uncomfortable with it, stop. True, as we mentioned there will be side effects, but if you should listen to your body and feel confident when doing a detox. Some people don't feel ready or comfortable the first time they try it so don't pressure yourself. Educate yourself, and check out your options. After you do I'm sure you'll find the perfect detox for you and your body will thank you for it!