Colon Cleansing

Current Weight: 217 lbs.
Body Fat: 29.8%
Weight Loss Don't: Colon Cleansing

There are a plethora of diets out there recommending detoxification and colon cleansing, either through fasting, the use of herbal and mineral supplements, or enemas. Proponents believe colon cleansing provides health benefits by removing toxins from their bodies.

Although doctors may recommend colon cleansing in preparation for a medical examination of the colon, most don't recommend colon cleansing for better health or to prevent disease. Your colon doesn't require enemas or special diets or pills to eliminate waste material and bacteria, it does this naturally. Also, your colon absorbs water and sodium to maintain your body's fluid and electrolyte balance. Some colon-cleansing programs disrupt this balance, causing dehydration and salt depletion.

If you suffer from constipation, a diet high in water and fiber should help.

Eat More Fiber

Current Weight: 217 lbs.
Body Fat: 30.4%
Change 24: Eat More Fiber

As I mentioned previously, it can be easier to increase your metabolism through the Thermogenic Effect of Feeding (TEF) and the Thermogenic Effect of Activity than trying to increase your Resting Metabolic Rate. Eating foods high in fiber will dramatically increase your TEF. Recommended fiber intake for women is 21 to 25 grams a day and for men is 30 to 38 grams a day, but the typical person only averages half that.

Some good foods you can eat that are high in fiber are:

• Peas: 8 grams per 1 cup
• Whole wheat spaghetti: 6 grams per 1 cup
• Pears: 5 grams ea.
• Oatmeal: 4 grams per 1 cup
  
• Apples: 3.3 grams ea.

For a more complete list, see the Mayo Clinic's list of high-fiber foods.