The word "detox" now encompasses a variety of purported body cleansing methods, ranging from diets to colonics. One "detox" method is called ionic therapy, also known as an ionic foot bath or ionic foot spa, which claims to draw toxins from the soles of the feet. While you may be tempted to invest in a product that promises to improve your vitality, your body is already doing most of that work on your behalf, according to Harvard HEALTHbeat.
Methods
Most ionic "detox" therapies involve submerging the feet in an ionic foot bath that contains electrodes and salt water. The session, which lasts for about 30 minutes, is said to cause toxins to flow out through the feet. The resulting color change in the water stands as "evidence" that the procedure has effectively pulled toxins from the body.
Benefits
Supporters of "detox" methods believe that unhealthy habits such as drinking and smoking and daily exposure to environmental pollution can lead to harmful buildup of toxins and avoidable health problems. Marketers of ionic "detox" therapies claim that their methods can help to improve general functions such as circulation, metabolism and self-cleansing through the liver and kidneys. They may also claim that their products can help alleviate pain, eliminate fatigue, improve digestion and reduce health problems such as allergies and arthritis.
Theories/Speculation
The water in the ionic foot bath likely changes colors due to rust. Ben Goldacre, writer of the "bad science" column in the Guardian Unlimited newspaper, created his own ionic foot bath by placing two metal nails and a car battery in a bowl of salt water. The water changed to a brown color and developed material on top in the same way that an ionic foot bath does. He then retrieved samples from that water and water from a brown and sludgy foot detox bath. He found, through lab tests, that color changes and accumulation of sludge in both samples came from rust created by electrode corrosion.
Risks
Though ionic foot baths probably don't draw toxins from your feet, they probably don't directly cause health problems. However, investing in ionic "detox" therapy will drain money from your wallet. It may also lead supporters to put off receiving legitimate medical treatment for health problems, which could cause further health issues.
Considerations
Wait until scientific evidence proves that a "detox" method is legitimate before you buy into it, recommends the Mayo Clinic. Until then, trust in your body to remove harmful toxins through its built-in detox system: the liver, kidneys and colon. If you truly want to invest in your health, spend money on nutritious foods, health insurance and a sturdy pair of jogging shoes.
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