The Master Cleanse Diet, popularized by Stanley Burroughs, is designed to purportedly detoxify the body using lemon juice, maple syrup and cayenne pepper. Some individuals have created modified versions of the diet, adjusting the ingredients to accommodate different dietary or medical needs.
The Master Cleanse Diet
The original Master Cleanse Diet is built on the daily consumption of a lemonade drink made according to the following recipe: 2 tbsp. organic lemon juice, 2 tbsp. maple syrup, 1/10 tsp. cayenne pepper and 10 oz. filtered water. This is one serving, and you will need to drink six to 12 servings per day. This liquid diet is accompanied by a daily laxative and, for some people, a salt water flush to help promote bowel movements. This diet is to be maintained for eight to 14 days.
The Sugar-Free Modified Master Cleanse
One modification of the Master Cleanse Diet focuses on making the diet more acceptable to individuals who need or wish to limit sugar intake. The modification involves replacing the regular maple syrup of the original diet with a sugar-free version. This allows you to reap the purported nutritional benefits from the maple syrup without the sugar. You can use artificial sweeteners to improve the taste of the lemonade.
The Fiber-Added Modified Master Cleanse
Another modification of the Master Cleanse Diet comes from Dr. Larry Clapp, who recommends the addition of bentonite and fiber in the form of psyllium seed husks. Bentonite is meant to absorb the toxic residue released by the cleanse, and the bulk of psyllium helps the passage of this waste from the body.
Problems With Detox Diets
There is no scientific evidence to support that detox diets rid the body of toxins. Your liver and kidneys remove most of the toxins you ingest, ousting them from the body via stool and urine. The feelings of being energized that people often report during and after a detox may be the psychological impact of the belief that they are doing something positive, asserts MayoClinic.com. The possible side effects associated with detox diets include nausea, dehydration, fatigue and dizziness. Before you start any so-called detox diet, talk to your doctor and let him help you make the decision that is best for your health.
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