Detox Cleansing

Detox cleansing is considered an alternative medicine practice that will help restore your body to optimal metabolic function by eliminating toxins it has accumulated. There is some controversy between advocates of cleansing and the broader medical community. Consult your doctor prior to implementing diet changes and modifications.

Detox Cleansing Theory

The theory of the detox cleanse is simple: If you remove the toxins stored in your body, you can improve your energy level, nutrient absorption rate, and overall well being. According to Michael Picco, MD, at the Mayo Clinic website, these toxins accumulate through the food we eat, especially foods that are processed and contain high amounts of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. You may also get toxic buildup from air pollution or poisons. The liver and kidneys may become burdened in doing their normal function: eliminating waste and toxins.
In a detox cleanse, you are undertaking a temporary diet that is designed to help you flush out the toxins. Often the cleanse involves drinking substantial amounts of water daily. Some detox diets are fasting cleanses, where solid food is eliminated for up to ten days. Other cleansing programs remove all processed foods or simply use herbal supplements to help the liver and kidneys metabolize and eliminate toxins more efficiently.

Advocates

Many of the websites purporting detox cleansing have testimonial after testimonial from people who lost weight, felt more energetic without an afternoon crash and had better mental clarity. There are many cleansing programs, such as the Master Cleanse, Fruit Juice Diet and supplements such as Colonix, Cleanse Smart and Ultra Colon Cleanse, that you can choose from. These are all reviewed at detoxreviews.com, along with many others.

Warnings Against Detox Cleansing

According to Detox Reviews, herbal and dietary supplements are unable to be patented, with few double blind-studies ever conducted. As a result there are a lot of programs and products that have not been reviewed by a scientific community. This is why many doctors are against detox cleansing. Dr. Picco explains that your liver and kidneys are designed to eliminate waste, and a balanced diet high in fiber and a lifestyle that includes exercise are the best ways to maintain your metabolic balance.
There are many side effects and health dangers to consider when detox cleansing as well. These include lightheadedness, dizziness and feeling sick. Advocates claim these side effects are the result of the toxins being released and subside after they are flushed out. More serious concerns are anemia, low blood sugar and electrolyte imbalances that can lead to heart attack and coma. Always check with your doctor before doing a detox cleanse.