Concern about the effects of pollution, pesticides, PCBs, food additives, caffeine and processed foods makes the interest in detox diets come as no surprise. The plethora of detox diets fills the demand of consumers who want to purify their bodies of disease-causing toxins and lose weight. Health experts say detox diets are unnecessary and potentially dangerous to your health. Do not begin any diet without consulting your physician.
Detox Diet
A detox diet is a temporary program that requires you to change your eating habits in an attempt to remove toxins from your body. The majority of detox diets consist of very low-calorie liquid meals, and some also require dieters to use laxatives or enemas to cleanse the colon or use so-called detoxifying teas and herbal supplements. Some involve a few days of fasting followed by the gradual reintroduction of solid foods. Detox diets are considered fad diets.
Benefits Unsubstantiated
Despite the purported health benefits claimed by the sellers of detox diets, such as prevention or treatment of disease, removal of toxins, or increased focus and energy, there is no scientific data to support any of the claims. Detox diets contradict medical evidence and go against the principle that a healthy, balanced diet includes a variety of foods. There are no benefits from detox dieting, according to Roger Clemens, DrPH, adjunct professor of pharmacology and pharmaceutical sciences at the USC School of Pharmacy.
Dangers
Detox diets don't provide vital nutrients. If followed longer than recommended, serious malnutrition can result. Even when directions are followed, detox diets can cause fatigue, nausea and vomiting, frequent diarrhea, blood sugar problems, decreased ability to resist infections, a dangerous loss of potassium, sodium or other electrolytes needed to regulate the heartbeat, loss of muscle tissue, and rapid weight loss, which is usually regained. Detox diets are especially dangerous for pregnant and nursing women, children, teenagers and those with heart disease, diabetes, bowel conditions, impaired kidney function and other chronic disorders.
Detox Diets Unnecessary
In addition to being ineffective, detox diets are also unnecessary. Your body is well-equipped with systems that regulate chemistry and remove wastes. The liver, lungs, immune system, gastrointestinal tract and kidneys all have a role in neutralizing toxins. You can help your body do its detoxifying job by staying healthy with a diet that includes fruits and vegetables, fiber and water, along with other necessary nutrients, such as protein and calcium. If you feel rundown or are concerned about your weight, consult your physician.
Member Comments