Detoxification is popular among health-conscious individuals who worry about constant exposure to environmental toxins. Many methods are touted for natural detoxification, including herbal cleanses, colonics, food pads and ionic foot baths. Most of these methods are not backed by scientific research, although there is some anecdotal evidence from people who claim to feel better after trying them. Ionic foot detoxification falls into this category.
Description
An ionic foot detox contains salt water, according to physician Dr. Stephen Barrett of devicewatch.com, and electrodes pass a low-voltage electrical current through the liquid. A person's feet are placed into the water for half an hour, during which toxins are supposedly removed through the skin and pores. The water typically changes color by the end of the session.
Function
Toxins supposedly come out through the soles of the feet because of the interaction of positive and negative ions, Dr. Barrett explains. He states that device manufacturers claim that ionic foot detox baths stimulate the body's cells in a way that allows the release of accumulated toxins into the water.
Effects
Ionic foot detoxification baths are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat any specific conditions. However, homemadebodycleanse.com states it can help with a wide variety of conditions, from headaches to arthritis, and that the color of the water at the end of the session will indicate the types of toxins removed and the affected organs. According to Dr. Barrett, claimed benefits include improvement in liver and kidney function, skin problems, digestion issues and food allergies.
Cost
Ionic foot detoxification bath sessions run around $50 and are offered at many natural food stores, spas and chiropractic clinics. A unit for home use can be purchased for several hundred dollars up to $1,000, according to Steve Lower, a doctor of physical chemistry.
Warning
Steve Lower states that color changes in the water of an ionic foot detoxification bath come from corrosion of the metal electrodes. He explains that they are made from copper, nickel and iron, all of which cause the different colors. Both he and Dr. Barrett state there are no physical benefits from using this detoxification method.
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