How Safe Is The Cranberry Detox?

Detox diets involving cranberries are increasingly popular. One reason is the many health benefits associated with cranberries, including their "cleansing" properties. Cranberry detox diets range from very strict, where little other than cranberry juice and fresh water are consumed, to kinder regimes that are gentler on your system. While the latter are likely to be safe in the short term, you should approach any stringent detox plan with caution. Always consult your medical practitioner before embarking on any detox program.

Health Benefits of Cranberries

According to the Cranberry Institute, a substance in cranberries can stop the proliferation of bacterial adhesions, helping prevent urinary tract infections. These antibacterial properties may also have a beneficial impact on stomach ulcers and gum disease. Because of their high levels of antioxidants and phytonutrients, cranberries can also protect against heart disease and certain cancers by stabilizing free radicals. According to Joe Vinson, Ph.D., research chemist at the University of Scranton, cranberries contain the most antioxidant phenols when compared to 19 other common fruits. Other areas where cranberries have been found useful are in ocular health, by helping prevent macular degeneration, and in boosting the immune system.

Cranberries and Detox Diets

Cranberries are a common choice in detox programs because of their ability to flush out the kidneys, cleanse the lymphatic system and eliminate fat. Detox plans involving cranberries vary. Detox For Life advocates a detox cleanse of pure filtered water supplemented with 30 ml pure cranberry juice, 1 tsp. green powder such as wheatgrass and 1 cup spring water, mixed and consumed first thing every morning for the duration of the detox. Others still consider a cranberry juice cleanse possible with the addition of fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and other high-fiber foods.

How Safe Are Cranberries?

The University of Maryland Medical Center states that you can drink around 3 oz. of pure cranberry juice daily with no ill effects. People with a history of kidney stones may want to moderate their intake; cranberry juice contains high levels of oxalate that can increase the risk of certain kidney stones forming.

How Safe Is the Cranberry Detox?

On a strict cranberry detox, possible severe side effects include vomiting, heart arrhythmias, low blood pressure and kidney problems. Less serious side effects are headaches, fever, chills, nausea, diarrhea, skin rashes, exhaustion, interrupted sleep and increased urination. It is not advised you go on any detox program for prolonged periods.