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detox algarve at longevity vilamoura and medical spa algarve

preparing for a detox

If you feel that it’s time for a detox, you may find it easier if you get yourself well prepared before you start.  Not just your mind and body, but your kitchen cupboards too!

The typical physical effects of a surfeit of toxins – caused by, for example, pollution, detergents, food and drinks – are tiredness, dull skin, weight gain, bloating and mood swings. If you have noticed one or more of those tell-tale signs, your body is probably crying out for a detox.  So, it’s important to understand that detoxing is as much a mental process as a physical one and everyone advises that a little preparation goes a long way.  And, a detox done properly, will lead to better skin, better sleep, brighter eyes, more energy and a heightened sense of inner calm.

There are several simple first steps to take…

If you have any allergies or a medical condition, check with your doctor before detoxing.

All detox plans focus on a change of eating habits which means a special diet, fasting or a combination of both. A quick-cleanse detox takes 2-3 days but the most effective cleanses last between a fortnight to a month.  But the good news is that most people begin to feel the benefits after just a few days.  So, firstly, decide when to begin your detox.  January is always a popular time, but spring is a perfect time to start too. A big occasion, like a party or wedding, can also be a great motivation.

However, don’t set yourself unrealistic goals. Remember that a good detox is about health, and dropping a dress size should be regarded as a fabulous bonus rather than the primary objective.

So, how best to get started?

Most professionals recommend that you start to develop good habits one month before, and cut out processed foods, caffeine (remember, there’s caffeine in tea too), refined sugar, preservatives, alcohol, salty foods, additives and tobacco. And the easiest way to do this is to purge your kitchen, your larder and your fridge and start shopping for the right foods (see our recommended shopping list below). Organic is best. Stock up on fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds. Also try to make one meal a day completely ‘raw’ (uncooked).

Get your body used to drinking a glass of warm, filtered water with lemon first thing in the morning which kick-starts digestion and aids your immune system.

Drink two litres of water a day, but remember not to drink during meal times as this impairs digestion.

Avoid adding salt to your meals. Use salty alternatives such as tamari, soy sauce or fish sauce – but sparingly, as they are still loaded with salt.

Mentally prepare for possible side effects. Your body will release toxins and for some people this can result in mood swings and headaches. Practice coping strategies for if they strike.

Can’t face detoxing at home?

Many people find the rigours of detoxing too difficult to handle alone and that a communal spirit in a managed environment makes all the difference.  The Healthy Holiday Company recommends week long in:spa retreats (available in Marrakech, Majorca, Southern France and Tuscany) if you would like to join a small group of like-minded people in the sunshine and combine your cleansing detox with lots of great distractions like yoga, hiking, fitness training and massages.

There are lots of lovely hotels and boutique resorts that we can also recommend that offer 3 to 21 night detox programmes.  See the selection of detox programmes below.

There are lots more options too, (see all detox programmes) and our travel specialists can help advise on the best option for you.  Please just call 020 8968 0501 for advice and personalised quote.

 

Fresh shopping

Here’s a simple shopping list for you, which will ensure you have all nutrients covered as you start to stock up your fridge with healthy foods.

  • Blueberries, strawberries and other berries
  • Broccoli, kale, cabbage, cauliflower
  • Less common salad ingredients e.g. watercress, spinach, alfalfa
  • Brussel sprouts
  • Yoghurt – natural, live, ideally organic
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Butternut squash
  • Fresh fish – try a new variety each time
  • Fresh herbs
  • Eggs
  • Pantry essentials

Dried goods shopping

Keeping a selection of dried and canned food in the cupboards means you’re never stuck for a meal, even if it’s a quick one involving opening a can. A wide selection of spices and other condiments means you can jazz up any meal.

  • Nuts – almonds, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, cashews, walnuts, pecans
  • Dried fruit – raisins, dates, apricots, prunes
  • Seeds – sesame, sunflower, pumpkin
  • Brown rice
  • Quinoa
  • Oats
  • Lentils – Puy, orange or brown
  • Cans of beans, chickpeas
  • Cans of tomatoes
  • Canned fish – tuna, salmon, mackerel, sardines
  • Whole spices e.g. cumin, cardamon
  • Dried seaweed
  • Dried shiitake mushrooms
  • Green tea
  • Almond, soya, coconut, cashew milk
  • Tamari

Detox programmes

dining at absolute sanctuary resort thailand
8 nights
Absolute Sanctuary's Modified Detox retreat has been specially designed for beginners or for those not too comfortable with doing daily colonics. It provides one with...
Solo
Couples
Friends
Sharing from: £2 109
Solo from: £2 656
massage at absolute sanctuary resort thailand
8 nights
The juice fasting retreat at Absolute Sanctuary caters to those who would like to undergo a detox but don't want to fast completely or want...
Solo
Couples
Friends
Sharing from: £1 937
Solo from: £2 483
Shirodhara spa at ananda himalayas hotel india
7 nights
Toxins constantly build up in the body due to pollution and other environmental factors leading to lack of energy, weight gain, inflammation and related issues....
Solo
Couples
Sharing from: £5 744
Solo from: £7 168
3 nights
Castel Monastero is the ideal setting to restore your well-being and your ideal weight. Dr. Mosaraf Ali, the leading expert in integrated medicine and physician to...
Solo
Couples
Sharing from: £1 947
Solo from: £2 579
7 nights
With this wellness retreat at Epic Sana cleansing your body is the first step to improve your health, increase vitality, and restore body and mind...
Solo
Couples
Friends
Sharing from: £2 087
Solo from: £2 468
beautiful lounge at Euphoria Resort
7 nights
The Wellbeing Detox retreat has been designed by Euphoria wellness retreat to enhance your body’s natural detoxification process, promote internal balance & enrich energy and...
Solo
Couples
Sharing from: £4 908
Solo from: £5 502
Beach front villa at kamalaya resort koh samui thailand
5 nights
The Introduction to Detox wellness retreat is ideal if you are new to detoxification, have limited time or seeking a seasonal reboot. It features Kamalaya’s...
Solo
Couples
Friends
Sharing from: £2 240
Solo from: £2 570
indoor outdoor pool at Lefay Resort and Spa Italy
5 nights
Nurture and cleanse your body with this detox retreat at Lefay Lake Garda. Minimum stay for this wellness retreat: 5 nights...
Solo
Couples
Friends
Sharing from: £3 157
Solo from: £4 192
Floatation spa at longevity vilamoura and medical spa algarve
7 nights
Increase vitality and improve your overall health with an intense detox and marine slimming 7 night’s programme. Check your health imbalances and find out how...
Solo
Couples
Friends
Sharing from: £6 949
Solo from: £7 634
Green juice and food Harmony Hotel
5 nights
The Energy Clinic Detox retreat at Ola Hotel allows you to get rid of all the negative and unnecessary substances in your body.  If you feel...
Solo
Couples
Friends
Indoor swimming pool at Palacio Estoril, Portugal
4 nights
Give your health and energy levels a beneficial boost with the help of the easily do-able-4-day detox on this wellness retreat at Palacio Estoril. Developed...
Solo
Couples
Activity Room
7 nights
Palazzo Fiuggi’s holistic Deep Detox wellness retreat is backed by the latest scientific research. Enjoy nutritious three-star Michelin cuisine, coupled with tailored therapies and the...
Solo
Couples
Sharing from: £8 176
Solo from: £9 843
7 nights
As a result of the accumulation of toxins in the body, chronic fatigue, intestinal laziness, circulatory problems, weight gain, skin problems, nervous and mental disorders...
Solo
Couples
Friends

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