Master Cleanse Exercise

The Master Cleanse or Lemonade Diet is a type of detox diet designed to aid in the elimination of toxins and body pollutants. The diet can also lead to rapid weight loss, making it an attractive option for those looking to drop extra pounds quickly.

Dr. Dawn Jackson Blatner says in "Fitness Magazine" that the body naturally detoxifies itself and that detox diets are not necessarily required. Dr. Blatner does, however, see all detox programs as good launch points for individuals to begin focusing on their overall health and well being.

History

The Master Cleanse diet was developed by Stanley Burroughs in 1941 and later presented in his book "The Master Cleanser" in 1976. Since that time numerous websites and companies have been launched to support distribution of the diet. Many Hollywood stars, like Beyonce Knowles, have used the Master Cleanse to drop weight quickly.

During the cleanse, participants abandon their normal diet and drink only a special lemonade drink. The cleanse directions do not prescribe any specific exercise program; however, many participants wish to incorporate exercise to speed weight loss.

Benefits of Detox and Exercise

Many participants in the Master Cleanse and other detox programs report increased energy and permanent weight loss. Exercise, alone or with a diet plan, boosts the body's natural detoxification process by helping eliminate waste through sweat and alleviating mental stress.

Exercises for Detox

According to the book "Detox" by Dr. Christina Scott-Moncrieff, participants in a detox program may have side effects like weakness, dizziness and fatigue; therefore any exercise program should be restorative, like walking or gentle exercise. These exercises may be complimentary during or after a detox program. Many yoga poses can help aid in digestion, while walking can help rev up the metabolism to support weight loss.

Considerations

The Master Cleanse program requires participants to severely change their daily diet and drastically reduce calories. When considering participation in the Master Cleanse, individuals should consult their doctors. While a normal healthy person may not be at risk for complications, someone with more chronic or severe medical conditions may be at risk.

Expert Insight

While the rapid weight loss associated with the Master Cleanse is attractive, most experts agree it is not sustainable. The American Dietetic Association, the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals, says that healthy weight loss should be maintained through daily physical activity and a varied, healthy and enjoyable diet.