Introduction

With so many cleansing diets and supplements out there, it's easy to wonder what all the fuss is about. Does the body really need cleansing, and if so, why?

As your body undergoes the daily grind, it has mechanisms in place for ridding itself of toxins. When you use the bathroom, exhale, and sweat, your body is excreting substances for which it has no use or that might cause harm.

The organs involved in these processes sometimes get overwhelmed and need a break. Like any system that works 24 hours a day, the human body sometimes just needs some "down time."

In some cultures and religions, fasting is part of religious observance. A "detox" is a sort of variation on the fasting theme, designed to purify and cleanse. A detox, like a fast, is always to be regarded as a temporary dietary adjustment, not a permanent one.

Fasting is a component of all cleansing, whether it is targeted toward the kidneys, colon, or liver. Sometimes, supplements are used to augment the cleanse.

Detox diets are also known as a means by which ill people can correct their illness. Ulcers, cancer, depression, and general inflammation have all been relieved by detox diets. 

This eBook discusses different types of cleanses, reasons why, and details on how to apply each.

Most detoxes last anywhere from 1 to 7 days, with most lasting 3. Do not ever attempt a detox if you are pregnant or nursing.