Diets that detoxify your body are designed to remove toxins that get trapped in the liver, kidneys, lymph glands and other organs. Detoxification diets have become popular, but according to MayoClinic.com's Katherine Zeratsky, a registered and licensed dietitian, there is no scientific evidence that they work. When working properly, the liver and kidneys filter toxins from the body on a regular basis. Teenagers shouldn't go on detoxification diets, states TeensHealth, because the side effects such as digestive problems, dehydration and mineral imbalances can be harmful. Before starting any diet, consult your doctor.
Master Cleanse
The Master Cleanse diet consists of drinking a blend of 60 oz. of water, 12 tbsp. of maple syrup, 12 tbsp. of lemon juice and 1/2 tsp. of cayenne pepper everyday for four days to two weeks. To prevent constipation, you're advised to drink a laxative tea and sea salt. Proponents claim relief from infections, symptoms of arthritis, gout and other types of pain.
Raw Foods
Raw foods diets advise eating plant foods that are at least 75 percent raw. This includes vegetables, fruits, seeds, nuts, grains, sprouted seeds, herbs and spices. Proponents claim that cooking destroys the healthy enzymes naturally found in these foods. Some of the raw foods diets include Eating in the Raw, Fruitarian Diet, Drie's Cancer Diet and Eating for Beauty.
Fat Flush Diet
The Fat Flush diet is designed to help lose weight while detoxifying your body. Proponents claim that it also helps reduce water retention and boosts metabolism. The diet is broken into phases of calorie restriction as well as the elimination of certain foods such as margarine, fats, oils, grains, starchy vegetables and dairy. Exercise is another important element of this program.
Hallelujah Diet
The Hallelujah Diet was designed by George Malkmus, a pastor who claims that it is based on foods God intended people to eat. The foods are natural and contain live enzymes that he says heal cancer, although there is no evidence to support his claim. The Hallelujah Diet is approximately 85 percent raw foods. Instead of eating breakfast, dieters drink fresh vegetable juice and barley grass drinks. Meat, eggs, dairy, alcohol and caffeine are not allowed on the Hallelujah Diet.
Liver Cleansing Diet
Dr. Sandra Cabot wrote the bestselling book "The Liver Cleansing Diet" to help improve liver function that has been damaged from bad diet choices. She claims that many health issues, such as bloating, obesity, fatigue, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, allergies, high blood pressure and bad breath, are caused by an unhealthy liver. The Liver Cleansing Diet is very strict and includes mostly raw vegetables.
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