Detox diets that promise easy weight loss and a boost to your energy often require the use of whole body cleanse home treatment products that put your health at risk and haven't been tested for safety, according to the Mayo Clinic. Recognize the risks associated with cleanse procedures to ensure your well-being, and alert your doctor before undergoing any cleanse treatment to lose weight.
Significance
Supporters of detox diets claim whole body cleanse home treatment procedures help remove dangerous toxins from your body and clean your intestines. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not require those who sell cleanse products to submit the products for testing to determine effectiveness and long-term risks to your health, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Some manufacturers claim undergoing a cleanse will strengthen your body's immune system and lessen your likelihood for asthma, cancer and other health conditions.
Identification
Most detox diets require users to consume cleansing products that contain herbal supplements with high amounts of fiber, along with laxatives, according to Harvard Medical School. The diets typically last from 7 to 10 days and you may undergo an enema at least once. Some cleansing drinks contain a mixture of cayenne pepper, maple syrup, salt water and lemon juice.
Effects
Your risk for dehydration increases after undergoing a whole body cleanse home treatment, while other side effects include fatigue, nausea and dizzy spells. Some laxatives consumed to help cleanse your colon contain sodium phosphate that may trigger a sudden increase in your body's electrolytes and can result in serious complications if you have a kidney or heart condition, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Expert Insight
Your doctor may prescribe a cleanse in advance of a medical procedure such as a colonoscopy, although a cleanse is not necessary or recommended for detoxification, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Your body produces sufficient levels of healthy bacteria in the colon that effectively remove toxins from food, while your liver acts to neutralize the toxins. Your colon also rids the body of old cells every few days to prevent harmful buildup and protects the tissues in your body, as well as your bloodstream, from potentially threatening substances.
Theories/Speculation
While following a detox diet that includes a whole body cleanse home treatment may help you achieve a sudden drop in weight due to a restricted consumption of calories, your likelihood of gaining the weight back is significant, according to MSNBC.com. Evidence is lacking to support speculation that a cleanse helps you avoid diseases like cancer or boosts your energy levels.
Considerations
Many people perform a whole body cleanse to relieve constipation. Avoid the risks associated with cleanse procedures by exercising regularly and eating foods that are rich in fiber, as well as drinking plenty of water, which may help relieve your symptoms.
Warning
Review your medications and health conditions with your doctor in advance of making a final decision about any home cleanse. Alert your doctor to any herbal ingredients included in your cleansing products and ensure proper hydration by drinking fluids during the procedure, according to the Mayo Clinic.
References
- MSNBC: Experts Warn of Detox Diet Dangers
- Harvard Medical School: Detox Diets, Procedures Generally Don't Promote Health
- Cleveland Clinic: Debunking the Myths of Colon Cleansing
- Mayo Clinic: Colon Cleansing: Is It Helpful or Harmful?
- CNN: Deconstructing "Detox" Diets
- Mayo Clinic: Detox Diets: Do They Work?
Member Comments