The Master Cleanse, also referred to as the lemonade diet, is a type of fast purported to rid the body of toxins and cleanse the kidneys and digestive system. Although the Master Cleanse is not backed by science and may cause serious side effects, it is still a popular diet used for detoxification and rapid weight loss.
History
The Master Cleanse was introduced in the 1940s by Stanley Burroughs, a self-proclaimed nutrition guru, and the diet was published in book form for the first time in 1976. Although the Master Cleanse is often used for quick weight loss, Burroughs designed the Master Cleanse as a fasting and detoxification program to rid the body of those toxins that cause chronic illness or for use when the digestive system needs a rest.
The Diet
Burroughs recommended following this diet for a minimum of 10 days to a maximum of 40 days. During the Master Cleanse, you eat no solid foods and take no supplements. To stay hydrated, you drink a lemonade mixture made with fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, cayenne pepper and water. You drink this mixture a minimum of six times up to 12 times per day. You may drink extra water as desired. To promote bowel movements, you also drink a concoction called a salt flush that is made of sea salt and water or drink an herbal tea.
Expert Insight
There is no scientific evidence supporting the use of fasts for removing toxins from the body. According to USC.edu, detox diets such as the Master Cleanse are nothing more than starvation diets and there is no need to use these types of diets because the lungs, liver, digestive system, immune system and kidneys efficiently remove toxins from the body without the aid of a detox diet.
Considerations
While weight loss may happen when you do the Master Cleanse, pounds lost are water and muscle. You may also suffer from side effects such as dehydration, nausea, headaches, lack of energy and dizziness. Once you reintroduce solid foods to your diet, you will likely regain any weight that was lost during the Master Cleanse.
Warnings
According to Dr. Judith Rodriguez, author of "Diet Selector," the Master Cleanse is not recommended for anyone with renal failure or cancer as the program could promote further illness or malnutrition. Children and teens, pregnant or lactating women, and those with diabetes or irritable bowel syndrome should also avoid detox diets, including the Master Cleanse.
References
- "The Diet Selector;" Judith Rodriguez, Ph.D., R.D., F.A.D.A.; 2007
- Mayo Clinic: Detox Diets: Do They Work?
- University of Southern California: Debunking Detox Diets
- "Lose Weight, Have More Energy & Be Happier in 10 Days;" Peter Glickman; 2005
Member Comments