Science is complicated, which is why the most absurd claims might sound perfectly reasonable if they're peppered with scientific-sounding terms. One of the more puzzling claims to come out of the detox industry is that of ion detox baths, which allegedly draw toxins like heavy metals out through your skin -- usually through the bottom of your feet. So, supposedly, if you're feeling poorly, all you have to do is settle into an ionic detox bath and not only will it draw out toxins, the color of the water will tell you exactly what's been poisoning you. If those claims sound too good to be true, it's because they are.
Function
Ion detox baths are usually designed to accommodate just the feet. They resemble a regular vibrating foot bath except that the central mechanism is larger and exposed, rather than cowled. The ion foot bath is filled with warm water and special salts are added. The user soaks his feet and watches the water turn different colors. After 30 minutes or so, the color of the water is compared to a chart to determine what heavy metals and other toxins have been supposedly drawn out through the feet.
Theories/Speculation
According to the manufacturers and distributors of ion detox baths, you are being contaminated by heavy metals and other toxins through your food, water and environment. "Ionizing" the water in the bath is supposed to attract the toxins. But, according to the experts at Universetoday.com, water already is ionized. Water molecules are made up of one oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms, giving them a positive charge on one end and a negative charge on the other. The ionic foot bath cannot possible affect the water molecules in any way that would allow them to "attract" toxins.
Misconceptions
The theory of ion detox baths is built around the belief that heavy metals can be drawn out through the soles of your feet. This is simply not possible. Skin doesn't work that way. Your liver and kidneys process and eliminate toxins, and there is nothing about the skin on the bottoms of your feet that would make it a better exit point for toxins than your excretory system provides.
Expert Insight
The experts at Harvard Medical School state that if you are generally healthy, your body is perfectly capable of handling the toxins to which it is exposed. Staying hydrated; exercising; eating a lean, healthy and varied diet; and getting enough rest is the best way to help your body cleanse itself.
Benefits
Soaking your feet in warm water is known to be soothing and relaxing. The salts added to the water in ion detox baths also might soften your skin.
Warning
People with diabetes are discouraged from soaking their feet for long periods, and those with sensitive skin might find the salts added to ion detox baths irritating. Ion detox baths run on electricity, so they should never be used unsupervised by children and never left unattended when filled with water or plugged in.
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