JANUARY and detox go together like Christmas and turkey, but due to the wide range of advice available, it is hard to know where to start — or how to do it healthily.

Many celebrities have been named as being fans of detoxing, such as actress Gwyneth Paltrow and former Countdown queen Carol Vorderman — who has even released a book in her name called Detox for Life: The 28 Day Detox Diet, which is said to have helped her drop two dress sizes.

But rather than following faddy one-size-fits-all detox diets which have little or no proof of success, experts at The Health Rack, in Deansgate, advise that people should stick to a healthy, balanced diet, do moderate exercise and use additional supplements and herbal products where needed.

Shop manager Faye Bailey said: "At this time of year people really get into proteins to repair muscle tissue alongside going to the gym. A lot of people use diet whey which is really good because it has got green tea in it, which boosts energy levels and cleanses your body from antioxidants.

"This is an excellent way to help detox. Many people don't like the taste of green tea as it is quite bitter, so the tablets are another way to enjoy its benefits.

"Another popular product is the Colon Cleanse, which is a best seller. Just after Christmas when you're feeling bloated and sluggish, this is a great product to try. It has aloe vera, oat bran and rhubarb powder which are really gentle on your digestive system after a period of overindulgence."

The family-run company was established 25 years ago by managing director Gary Bailey, his wife Sue who is company secretary, his son Sam, sales director, and his daughter Faye.

Initially a barrel foods company, The Health Rack moved into the supplements market during the 1990s — but the business still maintains its personal touch when it comes to customer service.

Ms Bailey said: "We do spend a lot of time with the customers asking them what they want. I always say to people they should not just stick to what their friends do. Anyone can come and ask us questions and we will be happy to advise them about anything.

"My dad always wanted to keep customer service at the top of our agenda, and that's how we have always done it. Since my brother Sam and I were little we have watched the business grow and grow so it was inevitable that we would become a part of it. We know the products inside out and appreciate our customers very much. Without them we would not still be here."

Ms Bailey says that there is no magic cure and supplements will not work on their own.

She said: "Detoxing isn't something that everyone can do in the same way as everyone is different and needs different things. It is very personal.

"There are of course no guarantees that the supplements will magically work for everyone in the same way that a moisturiser will not get rid of all your wrinkles. We advise to give something a try and see how it goes — it might be a case of trial and error before you find what suits you.

"You can't just take a load of pills and think that will work. But they can help along with a healthy diet. You have to work with the supplements to get the best results."

For those who are on medication from their doctor should check first whether any additional supplements will interfere with it.

Shop assistant Carol Brindle said: "I think people are being healthier now a lot more than they were 10 years ago. People are looking after themselves and also want to look younger. But it's not just about what supplements you take, it's all about what you eat as well. Supplements should be seen as an addition to a healthy diet.

"If you need extra vitamins then you can get in the form of a supplement. If someone wanted kelp but didn't like watermelons they could take the supplement, but if you are on medication you should always check with your doctor before you take supplements in case they conflict."

To find out more visit healthrack.co.uk or call 01204 380660.

WHAT IS DETOX?

According to OrganicNutrition.co.uk, detoxing means the removal of harmful or potentially damaging substances from our bodies, our environment and our diet.

While there is no concrete proof that it has any health benefits — the NHS guidelines simply encourage people to eat a healthy balanced diet and exercise — others suggest that by eliminating or flushing out toxic substances you can increase your chances of optimum health.