Opting for a veg detox? Think again

Actor Allu Sirish and the believers from the city had one thing in common during the recently concluded month of Ramzan — it was a fasting period for both of the parties. While the latter were on it for a religious purpose, Allu Sirish’s intention was a mix of both religion and healthy eating. His latest post on social media read: “Finished 21 day detox of going vegetarian; can feel the benefits: better metabolism and skin. I cut down on wheat, sugars and trans fats. Wanna extend, but will miss out on haleem this Ramzan. Highly recommend it.”
 
Before you join the group: While Allu Sirish’s recommendation might be sincere; don’t blindly follow the fad. Here’s what nutritionists have to say. “You need to first chalk out the intention behind the detox — do you want to lose weight or do you want to stock up on nutrients?” asks Dr Janaki Srinath, consultant nutritionist from the city. “Detox is ideal for people who have hectic schedules where they are unable to follow normal eating patterns. Such detox works well because they can then strike a balance on the nutrients that they were missing out on,” she says.

“Detox doesn’t necessarily clear your system of toxins. I would never recommend a detox. If you are completely avoiding carbs, then it’s not a good option. Being only on a protein diet, like consuming tofu etc., will do you more harm that good in the long run,” says Dr Usha Shri, senior nutritionist from the city.

How to go about IT: “Vegetarian detox needs to be thoroughly planned. Since the protein intake from non-veg food is gone, people tend to lose weight. But don’t forget to include protein alternatives such as tofu, soya milk, almond milk, whole grain pulses and legumes. Try changing the varieties of vegetables and fruits, every day. The amount of food has to be properly worked out according to the body composition,” says Dr Janaki.