Celebrities like Beyonce and Jared Leto have used the lemonade diet, also known as the Master Cleanse or the Master Cleanser, to lose weight, but according to "Fitness" magazine, it may not necessarily be effective. The diet involves drinking nothing but a lemonade mixture and laxative tea for several days to detox the body. Consult your doctor before trying the Master Cleanser.
History
The Master Cleanser was created by Stanley Burroughs. He published the book, "The Master Cleanser" in the 1950s, according to "Fitness" magazine in the article "What is a Detox Diet?" Burroughs intended the diet as a detoxification diet, not a weight-loss program, although it has been publicly used as a weight-loss tool by several celebrities, including Beyonce Knowles.
Significance
The Master Cleanser diet is designed to purify the cells, cleanse the kidneys, clear out the digestive system and eliminate toxins that have collected in the body, according to EveryDiet.org in the article "Lemonade Diet." Additionally, a detoxification diet may reduce nerve, blood vessel and artery pressure. In his book, Burroughs suggests following the diet for approximately two weeks. To help cleanse the body, Burroughs also recommends drinking a laxative tea once in the morning and once at night, and drinking water as desired throughout the day.
Lemonade Recipe
The Master Cleanser involves drinking a lemonade mixture that is prepared at home. Make the recipe as often as necessary and drink as much of the mixture as you want. Combine 2 tbsp. grade B maple syrup, 1/10 tsp. cayenne pepper powder, 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice and 8 ounces of water in a glass. Stir to combine, then chill the mixture if desired before drinking it.
Expert Insight
According to the American Heart Association, the Master Cleanser falls under the category of a fad diet if it is used for weight loss. A fad diet involves eating very low-calorie foods in order to rapidly lose weight. The weight loss is mostly water weight that will be gained back after discontinuing the diet, so the Master Cleanser is not an effective weight-loss option.
Warning
According to New York registered dietitian and exercise physiologist Mary Jane Detroyer, the diet may cause gastrointestinal upset because you will not be eating solid foods during the duration of the diet. Additionally, Detroyer is not sure why a laxative tea is necessary considering the diet is comprised of only liquids.
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