Unlike quick weight loss programs, Detox (detoxification) programs are designed to help rid the body of toxins and chemicals that have built up in the digestive tract and fatty tissues in the body.  Most of these programs last between one day to five days but a few can last as long as ten days to two weeks.  Although many people find that they lose a little weight while detoxing their body, these programs are designed to help people feel healthier and can be easily incorporated into a healthy lifestyle to promote better living.

Individuals who use detox programs generally find that they experience various side effects from their body’s need to purge different chemicals and energies.  Symptoms can range from rashes to acne and diarrhea.  Individuals should consult a doctor if they experience strange symptoms but should be aware that many of them are normal.  People generally find that once their body has purged the toxins, they feel better both physically and spiritually and that their skin and hair respond with improved health and beauty as well. 

Detoxification programs are best used after long periods of binging (such as birthdays and holidays) or at the start of new exercise and diet programs.  Because of their ability to give people renewed energy, they’re generally considered an ideal way to start drastic changes to healthier living.  As a result, people generally find that, due to their increased physical well-being, they do find some improvement in mental activity as well. 

Some common detox programs are:

• The Master Cleanse.  This program, also known as the Lemonade Diet, first gained popularity after Beyonce used it to help her lose weight for a movie roll.  Although it’s not designed to be a weight loss program by itself, it is a way for individuals to promote weigh loss in their lives.  In general, the Master Cleanse takes about 10 days to complete and involves drinking large amounts of a special concoction.  Most people find that, although it takes a little time to adjust to the program, they feel fantastic afterwards and more energetic than ever. 
• Colon Cleansing programs (The Dual Action Cleanse and The Ultimate Colon Cleanse are two examples).  These types of cleansing programs are designed to effectively clean out your entire digestive tract by means of ingesting a certain type of liquid or pill.  Individuals generally report increased health and energy after this type of program. 
• Longer, more sustainable programs found in some books and ebooks are designed to help change lifestyles through longer detoxification.  The 12 Steps to a Complete Body Detox, for example, is meant to maintain a certain level of detoxification over a longer period of time.
• Cranberry Juice.  Websites differ on how much you need to drink, but pretty much every source suggests that the cranberry detoxification mix is a great way to flush your system.  Most of them suggest mixing 1 part unsweetened cranberry juice to 7 or 8 parts water and drink about eight glasses per day. 

All of these are designed for short term use to help jump-start a weight loss plan or simply make you feel healthier and cleaner both inside and out.