DETOX DIETS
by Jasmin Bhawra

Varsity
476
Jan 12 2009
Canada

Over the past few years, detoxification diets have caught on as a
weight loss method that cleanses the body of harmful toxins. Many
of us have considered the infomercials advertising body-cleansing
kits, such as Dr. Ho’s infamous Ab Trimmer. Detox kits often use
a combination of supplements, including herbal laxatives, colon
cleansers, and antioxidants. Some actually claim to flush out the
toxins responsible for fat storage and illness, cleanse the liver
and digestive tract, and eliminate cellulite.

Yet detox diets have numerous complications. Many of the herbal
laxatives used, such as burdock root and dandelion, can cause
dehydration and electrolyte loss by diarrhea. For users under 18,
pregnant or lactating women, or those with a serious health condition,
there are multiple adverse effects that can result from electrolyte
imbalances or unfavourable drug interactions. These products are
unregulated in Canada. Yet each year consumers looking to feel more
energetic or lose a few inches spend millions of dollars.

Despite all the claims, many physiologists and medical professionals
agree that detox regimens are not necessary and perhaps even
dangerous. Says Kevork Peltekian, an associate professor of medicine
at Dalhousie University, "If you’re healthy, your liver and kidneys do
a perfectly good job of getting rid of toxins in the body. There’s no
scientific evidence that detox diets augment the body’s own natural
mechanisms." The human body has a very efficient detoxification
system whereby wastes and toxic substances are removed via sweat,
feces, and urine. The liver acts to remove waste from the bloodstream
for excretion via the kidney, and the large intestine effectively
reabsorbs minerals and water.

The best method is always prevention: avoid putting toxins in your
body in the first place. Some toxins present in our atmosphere,
such as pesticides and pollution, are difficult to avoid, but a lot
can be done by eating better. Enjoying a healthy, balanced diet high
in essential nutrients, drinking plenty of water, and incorporating
exercise into your routine all contribute to a healthier digestive
system. They also help control your waistline and boost energy
levels. Before detox regimens became a fad, this is precisely how
detoxification was accomplished.

There would be no need for such extreme measures if living a healthier
lifestyle was given greater priority. Decreasing consumption of
processed foods, eating more fresh meals to limit toxin intake
associated with chemicals, and reducing unhealthy consumption would
allow our body to cleanse itself of all unwanted substances. These
behaviours keep our organs and associated systems healthy.