Different sorts of vegetables
When recovering from an injury, a healthy diet can shorten the recovery period, help strengthen the affected tissues, and assist the body in fighting off any inflammation or infection. On the flip, a poor diet can turn an injury into a chronic wound that never seems to go away. If done right, a detox diet can not only speed up the recovery process but also improve the immune system and lower the chances of future injuries.
Micronutrients for faster recovery and optimal health
One of the leading causes of disease, slow recovery from injuries, and even mortality is micronutrient deficiency. Even the CDC confirms that there’s link between lack of micronutrients and certain diseases. For example, respiratory issues and weak immune system have been linked to zinc deficiency, certain eye diseases are linked to vitamin A deficiency, thyroid abnormalities are linked to iodine deficiency and so on.
This is a fact that well-nourished athletes will recover far more quickly if they keep a healthy, balanced diet as compared to those who don’t. In other words, if your diet lacks the essential micronutrients, not only your recovery from injury will be slow, but also you’ll be more prone to injuries. Detox diet that consists of dense superfoods and drinks are packed with the micronutrients and can ensure that your body gets all the minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and phytonutrients that are the key to optimal health and faster healing.
Cleansed body, reduced inflammation
A study published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine back in 2000 found that an intense detox for seven days can purge your body of many toxins and enhance the activity of the detoxification pathways. The study found a 23% increase in liver detoxification after a seven-day detox. When the body rids itself of the unwanted toxins, it eliminates the unnecessary load it’s been carrying. It indirectly helps the body do its core functions such as muscle rebuilding and injury recovery in a more efficient, and faster manner.
A detox diet can also come in handy in reducing inflammation and swelling of the body caused by a recent injury. Several detox drinks that have ingredients such as strawberries, cucumber, ginger, and watermelon can help reduce inflammation without putting too much burden on the digestive system. Pineapple also can be useful for reducing inflammation.
Better immune system
A well-thought-out detox diet will free up your organs so they can function better and absorb more nutrients. A recent study titled Bacterial toxins and the immune system found that toxins can learn to avoid the adaptive immune response, can disrupt immune cell function, and may cause persistent infections. Getting rid of the all these toxins can give a boost to your immune system.
Many herbs – when eaten during a detox – will have a healthy impact on the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a complex network of tissues and organs that works to eliminate toxins, wastes and other unwanted materials from your body and keeps your immune system kicking. Supplementing the detox diet with light exercise will circulate and drain the lymph fluid from the body, resulting in a stronger immune system and shortened recovery.
Final Thoughts
If you have an injury, a detox diet can be an excellent way to expedite the healing process. However, don’t think of food as a magic wand. It’s always a good idea to consult a doctor and have your physical condition assessed before starting a detox diet. Also, don’t ignore the importance of exercise, but if you have an injury, consult a certified expert before you start a workout routine as it can backfire. Injury will not always be an excuse not to exercise. In case of severe injuries, orthoses can be a great aid in restricting and assisting movements for both upper limbs and lower limbs. For example, if you have a knee injury, a knee brace can be a godsend – check it out here. Likewise, there are supports and braces for every limb which can help you with exercise and movement. All in all, a good detox diet and proper, regular exercise can ensure a speedy recovery so that you can enjoy the life to its fullest once again.
Author bio: Jessica Hegg is the content manager at ViveHealth.com. Interested in all things related to living a healthy lifestyle she works to share valuable information aimed at overcoming obstacles and improving the quality of life for others.
Image Credit: U.S. Air Force graphic by Airman 1st Class Mercedes Taylor
