Cleanses are super-popular with celebrities and us regular people alike.
But are they really safe? Are they really effective? Are there some
that are better than others?
Three experts tell whether doing a cleanse is right for you…
“Go for it. Cleanses come in many forms-some are
just juices, others are restricted-eating plans that last a day or even
several weeks. But the goal is the same: to help your body flush out
toxins and jump-start weight loss. Some aren’t helpful, because they are
too low in calories or omit key nutrients. But a good cleanse, one
that’s organic and vitamin-rich, acts as a reset button to help
transform unhealthy eating habits and infuses your body with nutrients.
A lot of my clients who find cleanses appealing have been subsisting
on sugar and caffeine-they’re actually somewhat malnourished! They find
that an organic-juice cleanse makes them feel sharper and more aware of
bad habits that were sabotaging their health, like mindless eating. I
know every time I do one, I get an energy boost.”
- Ashley Koff, R.D., Los Angeles dietitian and coauthor of Mom Energy: A Simple Plan to Live Fully Charged
“No. Liquid cleanses, or severely calorie-restricted
detox diets, are based on quack science, and the only weight you lose
is water weight. They can even do your body a lot of harm: Because many
cleanses cause you to go to the bathroom more than usual, you may flush
out important electrolytes that help your heart function and maintain
fluid balance in your body. That’s why some people experience muscle
weakness and mental fogginess. Your colon isn’t dirty, and juice
cleanses wouldn’t ‘clean’ it anyway, since they don’t contain much
fiber, which is what actually ‘scrubs’ the colon.
Plus, the idea that your body is better able to digest liquids is
nonsense. Your stomach is built to cope with solid food, and it doesn’t
need a break! If you really want to slim down, fill your plate with
leafy green vegetables, fiber, whole grains and good fats in your
everyday life.”
- Michael D. Gershon, M.D., professor of pathology and cell biology at Columbia University
“Do it, but be smart. I don’t recommend cleanses
that omit protein, good carbs or healthy fat. And watch out for ones
that provide fewer than 1,000 calories a day. Skimping on nutrition can
cause you to lose calorie-burning muscle, slow your metabolism, weaken
your immune system and dull your skin and hair. Plus, it can lead to
rebound binge eating. Do it right, though, and a cleanse has
Many women do cleanses to drop pounds; while all of the weight loss
may not last, it can be motivating. It’s inspired some of my clients to
make lifestyle changes that do lead to long-term success. I recommend a
solid-food detox-it’s more filling than liquid-only plans. Simply cut
out processed foods and alcohol, and consider eliminating animal
products and caffeine. A detox should feel like a tune-up, not a
punishment.”
- Cynthia Sass, R.D., author of S.A.S.S. Yourself Slim: Conquer Cravings, Drop Pounds and Lose Inches
Also: remember to always consult a medical
professional before starting any sort of cleanse or other diet program.
Even if you feel fine, it’s better to talk to someone beforehand about
potential adverse reactions that you may not be aware of.
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