Promoters of so-called detox diets commonly portray them as body cleansers that help you lose weight faster than you could lose it on your own. Among the most popular detox diets is the Master Cleanse diet, sometimes called the Lemonade Diet. Despite its widespread following, the diet may actually have more pitfalls than perks.
The Basics
Most people on the Lemonade diet drink a large quantity of warm salt water each morning. Throughout the day, they drink multiple glasses of water combined with lemon juice, cayenne pepper and maple syrup. They finish off each day with a cup of laxative tea. Because the diet can be difficult to follow, some only stick to it for four or five days. However, proponents of the diet generally recommend following it for at least 10 days at a time, according to Harvard Healthbeat.
Purported Range of Benefits
Proponents of the Lemonade diet believe that consuming the series of "detox" liquids for multiple days will rid the body of toxins derived from caffeine, junk foods, alcohol, smoke and pollution, according to USC Health Now. One major benefit of this cleansing, process, they say, is weight loss. Other alleged benefits include reduced cravings, more energy, an improved complexion, greater immunity and a healthier mental attitude.
Evidence
Although little evidence specifically focuses on the Lemonade diet, most research on detox diets shows that extremely low-calorie diets involving the use of laxatives usually result in weight loss due to lower than normal calorie intake and water loss from frequent bowel movements, according to Harvard Healthbeat. The weight is likely to return soon after normal fluid intake and higher calorie intake resume.
Health Risks
The Lemonade diet may not only be ineffective but also harmful. Some potential side effects of following detox diets include dehydration, depleted electrolytes, lower immunity, muscle breakdown, impaired bowel function, fatigue, nausea, dizziness and increased risk of binge eating. If you follow this diet on a regular basis, you may be at increased risk of developing excessive acidity in your blood, which in severe cases could result in coma or death. You may be at high risk of harmful side effects if you are a child or a teen, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, if you have impaired kidney function, if you have diabetes or heart disease or if you have a bowel condition.
Alternative Diet
Your kidneys, lungs, immune system and gastrointestinal tract help protect your body from toxic substances. Therefore, your best shot at reaching a healthy weight isn't taking a concoction of liquids that purports to get rid of toxins for you. Rather, eating a healthy diet of fruits, whole grains, lean proteins and vegetables is ideal for weight loss in the long term, according to MayoClinic.com. If you're intent on following the Lemonade diet, at least get clearance from your doctor to ensure that you stay as healthy as possible.
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