Detoxification and weight loss: My take


I was asked whether detoxification is an essential part of a weight loss program and I have my personal view on this.

Detoxification is a way of removing harmful toxins (chemicals) from the body and for the purposes of weight loss, using detox diet plans, supplements (pills, herbs, powders), hydrotherapy/enemas etc. They work primarily by increasing frequency of bowel movements and urination. Though there have been claims that detoxification aid weight loss, there has not been any scientific back up to these claims.



I personally believe it is mostly a fad and also an opportunistic way of gaining clients and making money from people very desperate to lose weight. The body already has organs that also function to remove toxins: kidneys, liver, lymph nodes, skin etc. Remember that drugs are also toxins on their own and so you are overwhelming the body with more toxins instead of clearing it.

Detox diet plans are usually low calorie fasting with the addition of little amounts of fruits, veggies, water and supplements. They are often recommended on short-term basis as long term use can result in nutrient deficiencies, dehydration, fatigue and some other health problems. This to me is a yo-yo approach as the tendency to gain all the weight lost and more is high once you stop the program. Always bear in mind that weight loss is not a quick fix and so life style modification is the basis. Eat healthier; small but frequent meals and exercise.

However I must end by saying, to each his own. The above view is my personal opinion and so whichever works for you, go with it; but in everything you do always ensure the risks do not outweigh the benefits.

Keep well, stay active and please share.   

Comments

  1. Chiemeziem Onyeka MgbemeJuly 5, 2013 at 3:56 PM

    G̶̲̥̅ơ̴̴̴̴̮͡ơ̴̴̴͡d̶̲̥̅ talk dear,ride on.I strongly agree with U̶̲̥̅̊.I always discourage those that want τ̅☺ lose weight by deetoxifying using herbs,concoctions I̶̲̥̅̊n̶̲̥̅̊ form of slim tea,diet supplememts with different brand names.the end result îƨ always increase I̶̲̥̅̊n̶̲̥̅̊ bowel movement α̲̅πϑ its resultant drastic side effects as U̶̲̥̅̊ rightly said.there wȊ̝̊̅ℓℓ also be damage of vital organs I̶̲̥̅̊n̶̲̥̅̊ d body I̶̲̥̅̊n̶̲̥̅̊ future. Thumbs up girl!

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  2. I agree with you.I am a strong proponent of detoxification of our thinking or lack of it.It is toxic thinking;thoughts such as pursuit of wealth and career to the detriment of health and family,that has kept most of us from eating properly and exercising as we should.If we could detoxify our thinking,pace ourselves properly and exercise,we would,most of us, do just fine.Salute.

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    Replies
    1. So true Kester, thanks for the affirmation.

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