Expert Comments on the Value of a Detox

What is a Detox?  Is it Healthy?  Why Would You Choose to Detox?

 

Dr. Christine Gerbstadt, a medical doctor and registered dietitian weighs in on detox:
Read more at: http://blog.foodnetwork.com/healthyeats/2010/11/29/healthy-debate-are-detox-diets-safe/?oc=linkback

 

Essentially, a "detox" is no different than a fad diet.  A fad diet is defined as a temporary change in diet intake, often restricting some food or liquid while emphasizing another food or liquid with the goal to lose weight, "reset" or "cleanse" the body.

 

According to the experts, our bodies are formidible chemical plants, in a good way.  Dr. Gerbstadt uses the acronym SKILL  which stands for skin, kidneys, intestines, liver and lymphatic.  Our body is a complicated machine designed to "detox" naturally.  Internally, we produce "detergents" and enzymes to get the toxins out.  If our body is working properly, it takes care of itself naturally.

What about detox products?

Many detox products contain magnesium sulfate, which is a laxative meant to empty the bowel.  Most products also state the obvious (to me, at least):  avoid "toxic foods" and drink plenty of water.

Most alarming:  If you read the label further, you'll find out that there are ingredients in the "detox product" that are not good for you including: fructose, sucralose, dextrose, sorbitol, artificial flavor, sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate (preservatives) and artificial colors Red No. 40 and Blue no. 1. 

Isn't the reason you're thinking about doing a "detox" in the first place to get rid of the "junk" that clutters your internal organs?  It hardly seems like you could effectively "detox" a body when you're ingesting chemicals with the product!

Is there scientific evidence to support "detox" or "cleanse" products?

NO.  There is currently a lack of scientific evidence to support that these products are safe or effective.  Second, our bodies are meant to "detox" naturally.  Third, while potentially risky, they may provide only short term motivation to change a poor diet.  Fourth, these products are costly and do not offer a long term solution.

It appears that the best solution includes not straying from a healthy diet in the first place.  Don't binge on poor choices.  Maintain a diet high in natural fiber, which includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. 

Eat well, take care of our bodies and our bodies will take care of themselves.  No "detox" required. 

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365fitt is about training for the event called LIFE, focusing on physical, nutritional and emotional wellness through lifestyle adaptations.  Kathy is available for personal training and wellness consultations and corporate wellness.  365fitt invites you to participate in a Healthy Active Living trip to incredible destinations.  Please visit 365fitt for more information.  Live 365fitt!