Some may offer short-term benefits but they can also lead to harmful side effects. In this article, we outline some of these side effects.
If you're thinking of trying a detox diet, it's best to consult a healthcare professional first
Detox diets are short-term eating plans that claim to eliminate toxins from the body, often involving periods of fasting, followed by a strict regimen of fruits, vegetables, juices, herbs, or supplements. While the body naturally detoxifies through the liver, kidneys, and digestive system, some people turn to these diets for quick weight loss or a sense of cleansing. Some may offer short-term benefits but they can also lead to harmful side effects, especially when followed for prolonged periods or without medical guidance. Below we share some of the many side effects of following detox diets.
Some of the worrying side effects of detox diets
1. Nutrient deficiency
Many detox diets eliminate entire food groups like protein, healthy fats, or complex carbohydrates. Over time, this restriction can lead to serious nutrient deficiencies including iron, calcium, vitamin B12, and omega-3s, affecting everything from brain function to bone health.
2. Low energy and fatigue
Since detox diets often involve very low calorie intake, the body doesn't get enough fuel to function optimally. This can lead to extreme tiredness, weakness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating, especially during physically or mentally demanding tasks.
3. Muscle loss
With insufficient protein intake, the body begins to break down muscle tissue to meet its energy needs. This not only weakens the body but also slows down the metabolism, making it harder to maintain weight loss over time.
4. Digestive issues
Juice cleanses and liquid-only detoxes often lack fibre, which is essential for healthy digestion. This can cause constipation or irregular bowel movements. Conversely, some detoxes with herbal laxatives may lead to diarrhoea or dependency.
5. Blood sugar swings
Fruit-heavy detoxes or juice-only plans can cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, especially for people with insulin resistance or diabetes. These fluctuations can lead to irritability, headaches, cravings, and even fainting spells.
6. Electrolyte imbalance
Excessive fluid loss through detox teas or laxatives can deplete key electrolytes like potassium and sodium, which are crucial for heart rhythm, nerve signalling, and muscle function. This imbalance can be dangerous and even lead to cardiac complications.
7. Mental health strain
Restrictive detox plans can lead to increased stress, anxiety, or obsessive behaviours around food. The rigid rules may contribute to disordered eating patterns or an unhealthy relationship with one's body and diet.
8. Dehydration
Some detox diets act as diuretics or encourage excessive sweating, both of which can cause dehydration. Symptoms may include dry mouth, fatigue, low blood pressure, and dizziness, posing risks especially for those with existing health issues.
9. Temporary weight loss, quick rebound
Most weight lost on detox diets is water weight or muscle mass. Once the diet ends and normal eating resumes, the body often regains the lost weight quickly, sometimes with added fat making the diet unsustainable and counterproductive in the long run.
10. Liver and kidney stress
Ironically, some detox supplements or herbs can overwork the liver and kidneys, organs responsible for natural detoxification. High doses or prolonged use of such products may lead to inflammation, toxicity, or even organ damage if not properly monitored.
If you're thinking of trying a detox diet, it's best to consult a healthcare professional first. A well-balanced diet rich in whole foods, fibre, water, and regular physical activity is a safer and more effective way to support your body's natural detox systems.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
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