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Detox Diets - Good or Bad?

When it comes to the world of diet and fitness, there are many ideas out there about what is good for our bodies.  When it comes to weight loss and dieting, there is a new fad in detox, or detoxification, diets, but they are not scientifically proven.  Detox diets are marketed as a way to remove toxins from the body.

Specific detox diet plans differ, but the basic idea is a period of fasting followed by a strict diet usually containing raw vegetables, fruit, and fruit juices, and water.  Some of the detox diets also include using certain herbs and supplements in addition to a colon cleanse to help cleanse and empy the intestines.  On average detox diets last about 7-10 days but there is no science to back up the claims that detox diets are actually removing any toxins from the body.

Some people have reported that they feel more energetic and focused during and after a detox diet-but most doctors believe this is only because they think they are doing something good for their body. However, there is very little evidence that detox diets work.  Any toxins that are ingested are effectively and efficiently removed byt the liver and kidneys and excreted naturally.  Besides the lack of evidence of efficacy, there are serious side effects and risks to detox diets and if you have any additional medical conditions the risks could be much greater, but for a heathy individual detox diets can also lead to dehydration, fatigue, dizziness, and/or severe nausea.

If you ae considering a diet regimen, check with your personal physician.  And remember, the best diet for almost everyone is on based on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean sources of protein.