Although detoxes and cleanses may be popular, they usually aren't healthy. Proponents of these extreme diets claim they help get rid of toxins, help you lose weight, eliminate parasites and cure any number of health problems. Instead of curing your health problems, relying on detox diets may harm your health.
Detox Diet Components
Most detox diets are very-low-calorie diets that consist mainly of liquids, although some of these diets allow you to consume raw fruits and vegetables as well. In some cases, you also need to take special supplements or laxatives along with following the diet, or use enemas to further cleanse your system.
Side Effects
Following a detox diet can make you tired, irritable, dizzy or nauseous. You may have headaches as well. Because of the low protein content of these diets, you may lack energy when on a detox diet. You will be hungry since the calories allowed are so low and most of the calories you are allowed come from liquids. All the liquids and laxatives will also leave you running to the bathroom quite often during the day.
Risks
Detox diets often lead to dehydration. They are too low in calories, protein, and vitamins and minerals, causing nutrient deficiencies if you stay on a detox diet for long. Detox diets can also lead to menstrual disruptions, bone loss, a disruption in your body's acid-base balance, lowered immunity, muscle breakdown and blood-sugar problems. Your metabolism may slow down, making it more likely you will regain any lost weight and more once you finish your detox.
Healthier Detox Diets
Your body doesn't really need to detox, since your kidneys and liver already do a good job of removing any toxins you might consume. However, if you want to try a detox diet, avoid the extreme diets like the Master Cleanse. Instead, make sure to consume at least 1,200 calories from whole grains, fruits, vegetables and lean protein, and avoid added sugars, caffeine, saturated fat, additives and preservatives, and alcohol.
Member Comments