Apple Detox

The idea of detoxifying the body originated centuries ago. With promises of added vitality and relief from disease, people embarked on restrictive regimens like the apple detox, eating a diet of only apples for two to three days at a time.

Rich in fiber and antioxidants, apples are recognized as the queen of fruits. Apples contain biotin and folic acid, which aid in keeping the digestive tract healthy and emotions well balanced.

Caution

• Before starting an apple detox, consult your doctor. If you take diabetic medication, cutting out certain food groups could result in dangerously low blood-glucose levels. Fluctuating potassium and sodium levels make this diet unsafe for anyone suffering from heart or kidney disease.
  Not everyone is a fan of the detox process. "Your body does a perfectly good job of getting rid of toxins on its own," says Dr. Nasir Moloo, a gastroenterologist with Capitol Gastroenterology Consultants Medical Group in Sacramento, California. "There's no evidence that these types of diets are necessary or helpful."

Preparation

• Begin eliminating caffeine products like coffee, tea and soft drinks a week before your apple detox begins, and cut out pasta and most carbohydrates. Drinking eight glasses of water a day keeps hydration levels up and helps eliminate harmful toxins. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day, and get sufficient sleep at night.

  Buy a large bag of apples the day before the detox. Choose organic apples, as the skin has not been sprayed with pesticides. Farmers' markets have fresh fruits and vegetables, but they may not be organic. "I've been to farmers' markets, and there's people hauling stuff from the truck that they got at a wholesaler," says Joseph Mendelson III, legal director of the Center for Food Safety, a liberal Washington group that supports strong organic standards. Grocery stores or specialty food stores like Trader Joe's are stocking more organic products, and you may get a discount if you buy a whole box of apples.

Detox

• Start on a day when you have no commitments, like a weekend, so you can eat as slowly as you like and rest when needed.

  Eat only apples in place of your regular meals, and snacks for two days. Any variety of apples is fine, and you can chop, dice, or blend them with water. Eat the entire apple including the skin, core, and seeds. Flavor the apples with ground cinnamon, which aids in glucose metabolism. Eat as many apples as you like, whenever hunger strikes.

  Drink plenty of water, and for a refreshing change, herbal or fruit teas. Take a walk to keep circulation flowing, and deep breaths to help you relax.

Side Effects

• After finishing the apple detox, people may report feeling less bloated and more energetic, with improved digestion, relief from acne, and better concentration. Other people report more side effects than benefits.

  One of the earliest side effects is a throbbing headache, possibly from caffeine withdrawal. Ingesting a high-fiber food like apples without sufficient fluid intake can lead to constipation, while excessive fiber can lead to diarrhea and loss of electrolytes. Hunger from not eating sufficient calories leads to fatigue and irritability.