The practice of detoxing is a centuries-old compilation of methods designed to reinforce self-discipline though denial, and encourage spiritual and physical purity. In modern times, it has also become a catch-all remedy designed to offset the effects of poor diet and environmental toxins. If ion detox baths actually pull heavy metals out through your feet, it's reasonable to wonder if this could cause an iron deficiency. In reality, detoxing the body has not been scientifically proven to work the way adherents claim it does.
Theory/Speculation
The practitioners, manufacturers and distributors of ionic detoxing equipment claim that the process works by creating negative ions that forcibly attract toxins and heavy metals and draws them out through the bottoms of your feet. Assuming that this was possible, logic dictates that removing metals from your system could potentially lead to an iron deficiency. There is no scientific evidence to prove either that ionic detox actually removes anything from your body, or that ionic detox can specifically lead to an iron deficiency.
Ionic Detox Facts
Ionic foot baths consist of a basin, a mechanism of various electrodes and a cord that must be plugged into an electrical outlet. Salts to be dissolved in the tub are often included. The user fills the basin with water, adds the salts, turns the unit on and then immerses his feet. The water changes color, supposedly indicating which heavy metals and toxins have been drawn out through the bottoms of the feet. This has not been proven to work.
iron Deficiency Facts
Iron deficiency occurs when the body is not taking in enough dietary iron, has a sudden increased need for iron, or is inhibited from absorbing iron. This can lead to a motor function delay in infants, impaired memory and mental functions in teenagers, low birth weight or preterm births when present in pregnant women and debilitating fatigue in adults. Vegetarians can also be at risk for iron deficiency, because plant-based iron is not absorbed as effectively as iron found in meats, poultry and fish.
Misunderstanding
It is not possible to forcibly remove iron through the bottoms of your feet. Neither the natural detoxing systems of your liver and kidneys nor the skin and muscles of your feet are capable of accomplishing this. Harvard Health Publications states that there is no evidence to prove that ionic stimulation can remove toxins from your body. There is no correlation between ionic detoxing and iron deficiency.
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