6 Truths About Doing a Cleanse

Quick fixes and deprivation diets have no place around here. (Hence our ANTI-diet book.) But you always hear about the latest crazes and and cleanses and wonder: How does that work? Does it really help? Could I lose a few pounds? And is it safe? So today we’ve got the 411 on doing a cleanse from Nicholas “dr. Nick” Yphantides, MD, medical editor for TOPS Club (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the nonprofit weight-loss support organization. So if you’ve ever wondered about a juice cleanse to rid your body of toxins or lose a little bit of that baby weight, read on …

6 Truths About Doing a Cleanse

1. The body already detoxes. Cleansing advocates insist that a build-up of toxins causes numerous health problems, such as low energy, weight gain, skin problems and more. But while it’s true that toxins are indeed everywhere, a person’s liver and kidneys are well-equipped to process these toxins. “The body already excretes them through urine, feces and even sweat,” notes dr. Nick.

2. Dehydration diet? Much of the initial weight-loss these diets cause is due to the rapid loss of body fluids. Additional fluid loss can also occur from extremely low intake of carbohydrates, and from diarrhea caused by using laxative teas or increasing juice consumption.

3. It’s a short-term solution. The weight-loss that can’t be attributed to fluid depletion? Yep, it’ll come right back when you return to your old habits.

4. There could be yucky side effects. Nasty side effects of cleanses can include dehydration, impaired bowel function and reduced nutrient intake, which can cause fatigue, headaches, nausea and dizziness. Far from fabulous!

5. Cleanses are a way bad idea for some. Pretty much everyone, but especially children and teens because they require a consistent supply of nutrients to sustain their rapid growth and development. Pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes, should also avoid cleanses.

6. You might feel better, but … You may genuinely feel better if, as part of a cleanse, you avoid highly processed foods packed with fats, sugars and preservatives. But choose to make these healthier dietary choices part of a series of lasting changes, not part of a cleansing strategy.

The bottom line? Most medical experts believe that special body cleansing is unnecessary, as the body is capable of “purifying” itself, with several organs dedicated to cleansing the blood and digestive system. Stay adequately hydrated, and be a good caretaker of your body by ingesting food that is healthy and nutritious. Don’t risk disrupting the natural cleansing system with unproven remedies that might actually do more harm than good.

See? TOPS is the tops when it comes to sane advice. Have you ever tried a cleanse? How did you feel? —Erin