Potential Health Risks Of The Master Cleanse Detox

The Master Cleanse, also called the colon cleanse, lemonade or detox diet, was created by alternative medicine proponent Stanley Burroughs as a natural way to reduce toxins in your body and boost wellness. As of February 2011, the program is also used for weight loss. Participants consume a blend of lemon juice, water, maple syrup and cayenne pepper, and no solid foods, for several days or longer, often while taking laxatives or conducting salt enemas -- drinking saltwater to induce bowel movements. The program lacks evidence of effectiveness and may pose numerous risks.

Bacterial Infections

Your body naturally contains bacteria, some of which are considered "friendly," or beneficial. According to Columbia University, colon-cleansing diets can eliminate helpful bacterial in your digestive system, which opens the door to a slew of infections caused by harmful bacteria. You may become more susceptible to urinary tract or yeast infections, for example, which cause bothersome symptoms, such as itching, vaginal discharge, abdominal pain and a frequent need to urinate.

Dehydration

Although the Master Cleanse encourages fluid intake while fasting from solid foods, laxatives and other supplements pose diuretic, or fluid-flushing effects. As a result, you may experience dehydration, according to Mayo Clinic nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky. Since most people reap fluids from various foods, such as fruits, vegetables, milk and soups, you may consume fewer fluids by avoiding these foods. Symptoms of dehydration may include thirst, dry mouth, hunger, fatigue, dizziness and mental confusion. Exercising during the course of your cleanse increases your risk of dehydration.

Electrolyte Imbalances

Electrolytes, such as potassium, sodium and magnesium, are salts in your body that carry an electrical charge and promote healthy heart rhythms, muscle contractions and energy. Severe dehydration and nutrient deficiencies associated with the Master Cleanse may trigger electrolyte deficiencies and imbalances. Symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance may include stomach cramping, dizziness, dark urine, irritability, labored breathing, nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, electrolyte imbalances cause an irregular heartbeat and may become fatal. These risks are particularly serious if you have kidney or heart disease.

Nutrient Deficiencies and Weight Gain

Your body depends on a variety of foods and nutrients to maintain proper health. The Master Cleanse provides no protein, fiber or fat and few nutrients. Partaking in the program repeatedly, which is recommended by many advocates of the cleanse, increases your risk of nutrient deficiencies. Symptoms of nutrient deficiencies vary but may include tiredness, dry skin, brittle hair and nails, depressive mood, headaches, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Sticking to strict dietary rules, such as consuming too few calories, often leads to frustration, excessive hunger, overeating and giving up on dietary programs all together, according to the Weight-Control Information Network. If you repeatedly cleanse to lose weight, regain lost weight, then repeat the cycle, your metabolism may slow down, making it increasingly difficult to lose or maintain your weight.