SO WHAT DOES A DETOX – WHETHER MALE OR FEMALE – INVOLVE?

Well, it’s not all about juicing. A typical 14-day detox diet would include cutting out all dairy products, wheat and gluten, and ready meals; eating regularly every three hours – a maximum two-fist sized portion per meal – with a recommendation to chew your food well and eat slowly.

Patients are advised to get plenty of sleep – going to bed no later than 10pm – and waking up to a cup of hot water with freshly-squeezed lemon juice, which helps expel gas from the intestines, purify the blood, alkalise the body and boost liver detoxification.

The diet recommends eating at least five different types of grilled or steamed vegetables every day from a lengthy list including broccoli, courgettes, green beans, mangetout, asparagus, artichoke, green or red cabbage, bok choy, peas, spinach, aubergine, Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potato, parsnips, butternut squash, pumpkin, baby corn/sweet corn, capsicum, celery, leeks, fennel, mushrooms, onions, radishes, tomatoes, avocado, cucumber and lettuce. Some detoxes cut out cruciferous vegetables, which can cause bloating.

Drink a glass of water every hour, but not with meals, and take light exercise, such as yoga and Tai Chi, for about 30 minutes a day.

Massages, facials, reflexology and acupuncture are also recommended as they aid in detoxing the body and mind.

Negative side effects at the start of a detox can include sugar cravings, feeling more tired than usual, mild diarrhoea or constipation. Consult your doctor before attempting.