The Top Nutrition Scams To Watch Out For

Everyone Should Detox Regularly

The idea that everyone should detox regularly is increasingly popular in the diet industry. Clients are told detox diets will rid their body of toxins that have accumulated and this will result in weight loss, improved skin, increased energy, and better immune system function. However, medical research has shown detox diets are a myth, and attempting to detox regularly could actually have serious health consequences. According to leading medical professionals, the liver and kidneys naturally excrete toxins, so as long as these organs are healthy, toxins will not accumulate, and a detox diet will not help an individual's liver or kidneys function any better than they already do.

Many detox plans include fasting or consist of consuming only juices for days or weeks. These plans can cause such severe caloric restriction that the body begins to produce ketones, substances that may lead to nausea, weakness, dehydration, and even fainting. Similar plans result in a prolonged lack of protein intake, and this forces the body to break down muscles and may also reduce the function of the immune system. Scientists suggest patients who claim to feel better after completing a detox diet likely feel that way due to consuming fewer sugars and processed foods. Rather than detoxing for a specific period, doctors recommend patients focus on long-term lifestyle changes. For example, patients may wish to try to reduce the amount of sugar, fast food, and packaged foods they eat in general and to start building meals around whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

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