Body Flush Detox

Internal cleansing, or body detoxification, is advertised as helping to eliminate a buildup of toxins and promote health and vitality. Proponents claim that flushing bacteria and parasites out of your body may even prevent and treat certain health conditions, notes MayoClinic.com. While detoxification diets and drinks are purported to flush away toxins, critics charge they are generally unnecessary. Check with your health-care provider about the risks and benefits of a body flush detox.

Theories/Speculation

Body detoxification typically refers to the concept that flushing toxins out of the body can boost the immune system and improve energy, reports the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, or UPMC. Body cleansing products and diets are typically suggested to flush the colon, kidneys and/or liver.

Types

Body detoxification products commonly contain ingredients like lemon juice, grapefruit, lime, orange, psyllium seed, dandelion root and other herbs. Plain water is sometimes suggested as a prime detoxification ingredient because of its purported ability to increase your metabolism and help remove toxins, according to TheHealthGuide.org. Touch base with your health-care provider before taking herbs. Detoxification diets typically begin with a fasting period followed by a rigid diet regime. Fruit, fruit juices, water and raw vegetables are the staples of a detox diet. Sometimes herbal supplements and enemas are added to further encourage detoxification.

Misconceptions

Some people may think they feel better following body detoxification. However, this may be little more than a placebo effect due to the belief that they have done something healthy for their bodies, points out MayoClinic.com. Little evidence exists to support claims that detoxification diets, colon cleaners and the like actually eliminate toxins from the body. The body is perfectly capable of effectively removing toxins and bacteria on its own. Colon cleansing may be warranted, however, in preparation for medical tests or procedures like a colonoscopy.

Precautions

Body cleansing products may be harmful at times. Some herbal cleansers have been associated with abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting up blood, according to the UPMC. Body cleansers do not have to meet FDA standards for safety, quality or purity. Side effects of detox diets include nausea, dizziness, fatigue and dehydration.

Outlook

Talk to your health-care provider about the benefits and risks associated with detox diets and body flush detoxification. Drinking water and other liquids, eating fiber-rich foods like veggies, fruits and whole grains, and getting regular exercise is typically all that's need to relieve constipation and promote regular bowel movements, advises MayoClinic.com.