Detox diets are ineffective and often harmful

A rage in this era of increasing affluence, when wellness and health occupy prime slots, is the detox diets.

A rage in this era of increasing affluence, when wellness and health occupy prime slots, is the detox diets. Celebrity endorsements of these, based on hasty conclusions or for dubious reasons, make them seem attractive but the truth is otherwise.

There is a large variety of detox diets which involve detoxification of the body through various means which could even include colon cleansing or subsisting purely on fruit juices. Some go to more extreme lengths. The proponents still claim that they help in attaining general well being. A typical detox diet generally has most of the following features:

• Prohibition of meats, dairy products, coffee, tea, sugar, salt, alcohol, fizzy drinks etc.

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• Use of anti-oxidant rich foods especially organic fruits and vegetables

• Flushing of body through consumption of large amounts of water or fruit juices coupled with initial fasting. Sometimes colonic irrigation is prescribed.

The benefits touted include increased vitality, glowing skin, better bowel movements, a boost to immune system and even weight loss.

Unfortunately, the truth is that the claims are almost entirely false. Fairly strong scientific evidence including a recent study at the Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine in London found no evidence to support the claims. They found those on a detox diet did not eliminate more toxins in comparison with thoe on normal diets. A healthy body will eliminate toxins through liver and kidneys. Detox diets do not enhance the process. In addition, detox diets can be harmful for teenagers and children, who may be deprived of nutrients, and diabetics and those with special needs.

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