Homemade Detox Salt Water for Weight Loss

Many people use detox and fasting programs for various reasons, among them to rid the body of toxins, increase health benefits and gain energy. A key aspect of most detox and fasting programs is that they also help you lose weight.

The Salt Water Cleanse

The salt detox program (also called a salt water cleanse) consists of digesting one quart of lukewarm water mixed with one to two tablespoons of natural salt (such as sea salt). Stir or shake the mixture until the salt is dissolved. Having the effect of an oral enema, this solution will run through your body very quickly, since the body cannot digest it. This detox program should be performed on a day when you have plenty of time to stay home (near the bathroom.) Drink the salt water mixture and then lie down and massage your stomach and abdomen. Now might be a good time for some yoga stretches if you practice yoga. Most people report a bowel movement within 30 minutes to two hours. Several more may follow.

Salt Water Cleanse for Weight Loss

Once you have cleansed your system, restore it by eating yogurt (to replenish the beneficial bacteria in your colon), fresh fruits, vegetables and juices.

Almost all detox programs feature the colon cleanse in conjunction with dietary changes such as cutting down on or eliminating red meat, dairy products, processed foods and refined sugars, as well as all animal fats. What this means is that a lot of calories are eliminated because you are changing your diet to cut out the most calorie-laden foods. Eliminating all those calories will add to the benefits of your "weight loss cleanse."

Suggestions and Warnings

It is often recommended that you fast for a day or at least a night before you do a salt water cleanse, or make sure you have a bowel movement before the cleanse. For obvious reasons, you want to experience the least discomfort possible. If there is extensive fecal matter in the colon, you will eliminate it very quickly when the salt water flush runs through your system.

Do not use table salt for a cleanse. It will not have the same effect. Sea salt is most often recommended.