A salt water flush and the Master Cleanse diet are two practices that often go hand-in-hand. Both promise to aid in weight loss and to detoxify the body. According to the website for Master Cleanse, the salt water flush is a precursor to starting the detoxification and cleansing diet plan for weight loss. Colon-cleansing rituals are not scientifically proven or even medically safe for some people. You should talk to your doctor before beginning a detoxification plan to lose weight.
Master Cleanse
Master cleanse began in 1940 when alternative health practitioner Stanley Burroughs developed a system he thought would cure a stomach ulcer. In 1976, Burroughs released his book "The Master Cleanser." Modern day Master Cleanse, or the Lemonade Diet, promises to help participants improve their overall health and lose weight by flushing the body of toxins. There has been much controversy over the years regarding this program. Studies have not proven it effective.
Salt Water Flush
The salt water flush is a method to jump-start the Master Cleanse diet. Participation in the flush is optional according to the website, but can be important to the overall practice. The dieter drinks a quart of salt water as a way to flush out fecal matter from the intestinal tract. The result is numerous bowel movements within 30 to 60 minutes after drinking the solution. Once the flush is complete, the next step is to begin the Master Cleanse fasting program.
Preparation
The solution that works with the salt water flush is very basic. Participants take 1 quart of purified water and add in 1 or 2 tbsp. of sea salt. Shake the solution to dissolve the salt thoroughly. Drink the 1-quart mixture all at once. After approximately 30 to 60 minutes, you will have the urge to go to the bathroom. According to the website, the flush will result in three to seven bowel movements. Some individuals may have more.
Side Effects
Beyond the obvious discomfort from the salt solution, participants can expect to have diarrhea after initial bowel movements. The salt solution might be difficult to drink and cause nausea or vomiting. One possible side effect of colon cleansing is dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Dr. Michael Picco from Mayo clinic.com advises you to drink plenty of water to stay well-hydrated. You may experience intestinal cramping after drinking a salt solution.
Considerations
The salt water flush is not for everyone. Most individuals will find drinking a quart of salt water unpleasant to say the least. You should never attempt a salt water cleanse if being treated for high blood pressure, diabetes or if on a sodium-restricted diet. Medical science believes colon cleansing is unnecessary and may be hazardous for some individuals. You should talk to your doctor before beginning any detox or colon-cleansing program. Instead of colon cleansing, consider increasing your water intake and eating a high-fiber diet to regulate bowel movements. The best method to lose weight is by changing your lifestyle and incorporating healthy food with physical exercise.
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