Fasting and cleansing programs are often advocated for natural healing and rapid weight loss. Although it has become popular in holistic health care, there are some myths to be aware of.
Curing Headaches
According to fasting and cleansing advocates, such as Paul Bragg, regular cleansing is a miracle cure for many modern illnesses, including headaches, arthritis, heart disease, even acne. While cleansing will help eliminate toxins in the body which result in illness, headaches are actually a common side effect of fasting and cleansing. These side effects are temporary and should subside after the cleanse.
Curing Acne
Acne is caused by bacterial buildup in the skin. A thorough cleanse will purge toxins throughout the body, many of which are released through the skin. During the cleansing process, acne breakouts may occur or become worse. However, they should clear up following completion of the cleanse.
Curing arthritis
Arthritis results from calcified deposits in the joints of the body. As author and Master Herbalist Ruth Yanor-McRae explains, uric acid accumulated in your body can be a major culprit in aggravating inflammation and arthritis symptoms. Holistic health practitioners often employ fasting and cleansing to break down these deposits and alleviate arthritis pain. This technique is effective, although it takes time. Just as it took months or even years for the deposits to develop, it may take several cleanses to see real results.
Cure IBS
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, can cause constipation, diarrhea and cramping. Since diet is one underlying cause of IBS, many fasting advocates believe cleansing is the answer. However, those who suffer from IBS may experience a worsening of symptoms when fasting or cleansing, as one possible side effect of cleansing is diarrhea or loose stools. Some may even experience no bowel movements at all during a cleanse. Always consult a physician or health care practitioner before beginning a colon cleanse for IBS.
Rapid Weight Loss
Weight loss is an obvious side effect of fasting and cleansing. However, much of the weight loss may be water, and not the large quantities of bowel waste that many manufacturers of cleansing products claim. The purpose of cleansing is detoxification, not weight loss. Additionally, some of the weight loss during a cleanse may return once a normal diet is resumed.
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