BoazRocheFitness: September 2015

Debunking “Detox”

You’re scrolling down your timeline and see a picture of some sort of tea/smoothie/cleanse thing. The picture looks nice. A clean background, a fancy bottle with pictures of colorful fruits and vegetables and words like “cleanse”, “vitamins”, “energy boost”, etc. Someone you know tried it once and now they sell it. The transformation pictures they post are amazing! Sound familiar?

If you’re like most people, you’ve likely seen these posts many times before, or have heard the word “detox” on tv/radio at some point. You’ve also wondered, does it really work?

Contrary to what these companies would have you believe, your body doesn’t need to “detox” itself. There is no clinical evidence that any type of detox diet works. You know what does work? Your liver. Your liver has been doing that for you since the day you were born. Acting as the body’s principal filter, the liver produces a family of proteins called metallothioneins. Metallothioneins neutralize harmful metals like lead, cadmium, and mercury to prepare for their elimination from the body. Liver cells also produce groups of enzymes that regulate the metabolism of drugs and are an important part of the body’s defense against harmful chemicals and other toxins. Your body also uses its skin, respiratory system, immune system, intestines, and kidneys in order to keep “toxins” at bay.

The term detoxify was originally used in the medical field, referring to procedures that rid the body of dangerous levels of drugs, alcohol, or poisons. You know, actual toxins. Now the term is used VERY loosely to describe procedures that consumers can do at home by way of various drinks and fad diets, aimed at removing “toxins” that are supposedly responsible for them feeling tired, bloated, sore, and depressed.

Many people report feeling more focused and energetic during and after detox diets. However, there's little evidence that detox diets actually remove so called toxins from the body. The reason these individuals feel better after completing a detox diet is because it eliminates highly processed foods that have solid fats and added sugar. Simply avoiding these high-calorie low-nutrition foods for a few days may be part of why people feel better.

Of course, doing a detox diet or “cleanse” is easier than making generally healthier food choices and being more proactive with one’s health. So, if this didn’t sway you from trying out a detox for yourself, at least be aware of the possible side effects these procedures come with. Detox diets that rely heavily on juices and teas, severely limit protein, or require fasting, can result in fatigue and vitamin/mineral deficiencies.

Remember that fad diets are never a long term solution to your goals. For results that will last more than a few weeks, a balanced diet consisting of fruits and vegetables, various carb sources, and lean proteins are your best bet.