Detox diets have been touted in the media for their ability to rid the body of toxins, accelerate weight loss and cure all that ails (except those pesky blind dates!).
Advocates of detox dieting believe that toxic buildup in the body is the cause of many health disorders including headaches, fatigue and bloating. In order to flush these toxins from our system, our bodies need a nutritional break. This is often achieved through fasting or limiting our diets to certain foods.
But, despite the popularity of these diets, critics warn that there is no scientific evidence to suggest that the body needs any help ridding itself of toxins. This is the job of the human liver, lungs and kidneys.
Most people do lose weight while on a detox diet – for Dreamgirls Beyoncé lost 20 pounds on The Master Cleanse, a popular detox diet that involves drinking a mixture of water, lemon juice, maple syrup and cayenne pepper. But health authorities maintain that this weight loss is often temporary. Once the dieter returns to their normal way of eating, the weight quickly returns.
There are no instant cures, so before starting any detox diet, it is wise to consult a health practitioner, especially if you suffer from ulcers, have a history of cancer, diabetes, kidney, liver or heart disease or are pregnant.
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