Cayenne pepper and honey are ingredients in a variation of the Master Cleanse diet formula that was developed by Stanley Burroughs in the 1940s. Originally intended to treat ulcers and rid the body of toxins, the diet program has gained popularity due to its rapid weight-reducing effect. Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which generates heat and pushes the body to burn fat faster, according to "Science Daily." Consult with your doctor before trying a new diet.
Components
The ingredients in Master Cleanse "lemonade" include freshly squeezed lemon juice, honey -- or maple syrup, in the original Master Cleanse -- cayenne pepper and spring, distilled or purified water. Grade B maple syrup contains more minerals than the lighter grade A syrup. Followers of the regimen consume only this mixture, herbal tea or water for the duration of the cleansing.
Cleansing Benefits
A cleansing diet is purported to renew your energy as it removes toxins and congestion, notes Dr. Elson Haas, author of "The New Detox Diet." Haas advises against liquid-only diets for those with immune deficiencies, anemia or fatigue, or for young children and pregnant or nursing mothers.
Lose Weight, Gain Weight
Pop star Beyonce Knowles allegedly lost 20 lb. due to the Master Cleanse diet when slimming down for her role in the movie "Dreamgirls." After she came off the diet, she stated on the "Oprah" show that she quickly regained the lost weight. Regaining lost weight often occurs with quick-fix diets, says nutritionist Joy Bauer, author of "The 90/10 Weight Loss Plan." Although pounds melt away on a cleansing diet, the low-calorie intake creates a tendency to binge afterward, Bauer explains.
Considerations
Headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea could possibly occur on a cleansing diet, notes MayoClinic.com nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky. For good health maintenance, Zeratsky recommends a diet of lean proteins, whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables. Get approval from your doctor before embarking on any cleansing diet.
References
- Science Daily; Peppers May Increase Energy Expenditure in People Trying to Lose Weight; April 28, 2010
- "The New York Times"; I Heard It Through the Diet Grapevine; Lola Ogunnaike; December 10, 2006
- MayoClinic.com; Do Detox Diets Offer Any Health Benefits?; Katherine Zeratsky; April 22, 2010
- Dr. Elson Haas; Spring Cleansing; Elson Haas; 2007
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