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Are cleanses/detox diets healthy? Are they recommended by dietitians and nutritionists?
I am a healthy young woman and have come across many other healthy people trying out various "cleanses" and "detox" diets. In particular, I thought the "Master Cleanse" sounded bizarre, yet interesting.
In the case of the Master Cleanse, you are to drink a lemonade mixture (Fresh Lemon Juice, Rich Maple Syrup, Cayenne Pepper, and Pure Water) whenever thirsty for 10 days and take a laxative, morning and evening (or a Salt Water Flush).
I know this kind of diet would NOT be advisable long term, but are there any health benefits in this? Is it done simply to lose weight or is there more to it?
In the case of the Master Cleanse, you are to drink a lemonade mixture (Fresh Lemon Juice, Rich Maple Syrup, Cayenne Pepper, and Pure Water) whenever thirsty for 10 days and take a laxative, morning and evening (or a Salt Water Flush).
I know this kind of diet would NOT be advisable long term, but are there any health benefits in this? Is it done simply to lose weight or is there more to it?
26 yr old, Female
asked Mar 22, 2010 at 02:56PM in Nutrition
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3Votes
answered Mar 23, 2010 at 05:58AMBriefly: an occasional 'cleanse' that limits the diet to wholesome fluids- water, green teas, 'juices' made from blenderized whole fruits and vegetables- is apt to be harmless for healthy people, and may offer some advantages- at least spiritually. I would certainly advise against almost any other kind of cleanse- including one based on maple syrup, which is an infusion of sugar.
The error in most claims about 'detox' and 'cleanses' is that the body needs this kind of help; it does not. The body is richly endowed with organs of detoxification: liver, kidneys, spleen, colon. All that is required for the body to detoxify itself- far more effectively than we can hope to do- is to keep these organs healthy. That, in turn, requires keeping yourself healthy. A balanced, mostly plant-based diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, stress management, and avoidance of toxins including tobacco and excess alcohol...is daily detox.
Just take care of your body, and it will take care of you. No maple syrup- and certainly no laxatives- required!
Best,
DK
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The content on or accessible through Medpedia.com is for informational purposes only. Medpedia is not a substitute for professional advice or expert medical services from a qualified health professional.
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