The Master Cleanse diet is a program that claims to detoxify the digestive system. Partakers drink a blend of water, lemon juice, maple syrup and cayenne pepper while fasting from other foods and beverages for 10 days or longer. Laxatives, diuretics and salt washes--drinking saltwater to induce bowel movements--are also encouraged. According to Harvard Medical School (HMS), the effectiveness of the Master Cleanse and similar diets remains unproven and serious side effects are common.
Dehydration
Many foods and beverages other than water provide the body with hydration. Although a lemon beverage is consumed during the course of the Master Cleanse diet, it may not suffice to keep the body hydrated. According to Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist, Michael Picco, M.D., dehydration is a common risk involved with cleansing diets because of the laxatives and diuretics involved. Herbal laxatives, laxative teas and nightly salt water washes, designed to stimulate a prompt bowel movement, flush necessary fluids from the body. Lemon juice may provide an addition diuretic, or fluid-flushing, effect.
Electrolyte Imbalance
Dehydration and laxative use can lead to a more serious risk of the Master Cleanse diet known as an electrolyte imbalance. Electrolytes are salts in the body, such as calcium, sodium and potassium, that conduct electricity. A healthy electrolyte balance supports muscle, heart and nerve function. According to Picco, electrolyte imbalances can pose life-threatening risks in people with heart or kidney disease. Electrolyte imbalances may also cause muscle spasms, physical weakness, convulsions, mental confusion and irregular heartbeat.
Digestive Symptoms
The Master Cleanse encourages daily laxative use. Dieters opt for laxatives of their choice, which may involve herbal bulk-forming laxatives, stimulant laxatives and/or laxative teas. Since the digestive system is designed to function without use of laxatives and functions normally in most people, the Master Cleanse diet may reduce normal bowel and other digestive functions, according to HMS. People who partake in the Master Cleanse long-term or periodically may become dependent upon laxatives in order to produce bowel movements. The Master Cleanse may also cause abdominal bloating, pain and cramping, digestive discomfort and gas. Diarrhea, or loose, frequent stools, may also occur during the fast.
Hunger, Lethargy and Depressive Moods
Since the Master Cleanse is low in calories and nutrients, extreme hunger and cravings may occur. According to HMS, the diet is deficient in numerous vital nutrients and carbohydrates, which provide the body's primary energy source. As a result, lethargy, or tiredness and reduced motivation, frequently occurs. Healthy food intake also boosts production of feel-good hormones, such as serotonin and dopamine, in the brain. Hormone imbalances and emotional deprivation involved with the Master Cleanse can lead to sadness, irritability, anger and frustration.
Acidity in the Blood (Metabolic Acidosis)
Too much acid in the blood, a condition known as metabolic acidosis, may occur as a result of the Master Cleanse diet. According to HMS, people who partake in the diet repeatedly, which is encouraged by proponents, are at risk for this condition. Metabolic acidosis can cause increased heart rate and breathing, confusion, lethargy and shock. In severe cases it results in coma or death. Since many side effects of metabolic acidosis are also side effects of the Master Cleanse diet itself, people may not seek necessary, immediate treatment when metabolic acidosis sets in. Thus, partaking in the diet repeatedly is strongly discouraged.
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