Detox diets are a popular alternative measure for purportedly attaining increased energy and better health. If you have recently undergone a , or know someone who has, you might be tempted to suggest a similar course of action for your teenager. However, before you do, understand that disturbing the normal teenage growth process with a restrictive "detox" fast might do more harm than good. If you want a real detoxifying diet that will not compromise the health of your loved one, you came to the right place.
Detox and Teens
The majority of detox diets on the market are restrictive affairs that in no way provide one's body with adequate nutrition to fuel ordinary biological processes. While a week or two of fasting might not hurt a fully developed adult, depriving the body of vital nutrients for prolonged periods of time can have adverse effects on children who are still developing. Furthermore, there is no real scientific evidence to support the claims of detox diet manufacturers regarding either toxin buildup or the effectiveness of fasting to flush the system. While you, as a fully rational adult, can voluntarily choose to risk your health on the unproven "benefits" of a detox diet, it would be highly irresponsible to make that choice for your teenage child. Thus, we highly recommend against detox diets for teenagers.
A Safer Detox
With that said, there are some steps you can take to help out without resorting to a potentially harmful detox. The best thing you can do for your child at this point is instill proper nutritional habits that will last a lifetime. For teens (and adults for that matter), we recommend following the "7 Habits" of Dr. John Berardi. Dr. Berardi works with clients ranging from professional athletes to everyday "Joes," and the one thing that their diets all have in common is these seven basic habits. Teaching your child to stick to these rules will do far more for their health than any detox ever could.
1. Consume small meals every 2 to 3 hours, for a total of 5 to 8 meals a day.
2. Consume lean protein with each meal--chicken, fish, eggs or meat.
3. Consume fruits and vegetables with each meal.
4. Consume carbs only from fruits and vegetables.
5. Consume at least 25% of daily calories from fats--including animal fats, natural fats (like those found in coconuts and avocados), and oils like fish, flax and olive.
6. Drink only zero-calorie beverages--limit this to just water where possible.
7. No liquid nutrition--all meals should be solid, natural food.
Of course, teaching your child new eating habits is often difficult. We recommend leading by example. Follow these rules yourself and eliminate all foods in the home that do not comply with these habits. Where poor choices are eliminated, healthy choices follow naturally. Before long your family will be happier and healthier than ever, and without being exposed to the dangers of a detox.
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