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“Detox” is a process that involves using certain products, diets, or methods to try to rid the body of so-called “toxins.”

Detox methods are spreading on social media through brands offering products from celebrities and influencers.

Methods of detoxifying the body are not new; It has had appeal since the time of Hippocrates, who believed that four bodily fluids (blood, phlegm, and black bile) must be kept in balance to maintain good health. So being unwell meant that the body’s organs and fluids were somewhat imbalanced and needed to be corrected.

Over the centuries, these “imbalances” have been treated with everything from enemas and emetics to leech therapy and blood extraction.

An enema, for example, is a tube inserted into the anus to deliver medicine or fluids to the rectum or colon. An emetic is a compound designed to make a person vomit. Blood extraction involves the use of certain techniques.

At the same time, throughout history, fasting rituals to demonstrate self-discipline, purity, and holiness have been common, especially among women.

Different methods and types of detoxification?

Fast forward to today, detoxing looks a little different; Detox products sold over the counter or online are usually teas or drinks that are consumed in place of food.

These methods sometimes begin with a fasting or intermittent fasting phase throughout the program. The “detox” label is appearing on a growing range of teas, coffees, sweetened waters, and drinks with added fruits, vegetables, herbal blends, nutrients, or an added blend of natural ingredients. But these products often claim to flush toxins from the body or boost immunity.

Global forecasts indicate that the value of the detox products market, which is estimated to be worth more than $5 billion in 2022, will grow in value by another 50% before 2030.

A survey of detoxification treatments used by naturopaths in the United States reported that more than three-quarters recommended dietary measures, including “cleansing foods” (such as beets), vitamin, mineral or antioxidant supplements, organic foods, and detox diets. Toxins and probiotics, according to what was reported by “Science Alert” from the prestigious scientific website “The Conversation”.

While drinks and food procedures represent typical detox methods, there are also some unusual detox practices. A third of patients in the same American study underwent colon dialysis, which involves injecting fluids into the colon to remove digestive waste. While more than a quarter of them used mixed treatments or laxative herbs.

Although there is no equivalent data for Australia, a survey of more than 2,000 Australian adults found that 63% had either used or consulted someone about complementary therapies in the previous year.

Are detoxifications effective?

The short answer is no. A review published in 2022 found that detox diets failed to identify plausible pathways by which toxins can be eliminated, or the specific toxins that are supposed to be removed by a particular diet.

This review also noted that detoxification challenges general principles of human physiology; As the liver and kidneys are very effective in removing toxins from our bodies.

Likewise, a previous review in 2015 found that studies did not provide convincing evidence to support the use of detox regimens. So, detox products do not have to prove their effectiveness in the market.

In Australia, over-the-counter complementary medicines are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, with ingredients assessed for quality and safety. But not whether the products actually work. Therefore, you should check any product and marketing claims before purchasing to see what the manufacturers are saying.

The big promises you should be skeptical of include detoxification, rapid weight loss, stronger willpower, improved self-esteem, boosted energy or immunity, feelings of happiness and inner peace, and improved skin, hair, and nails.

Potential risks of detox

Consuming detox products instead of following a regular diet results in a very low calorie intake and thus may lead to short-term weight loss. But it is not a sustainable way to lose weight. Detox diets that severely restrict calories or food groups increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies.

Adverse effects include fatigue, irritability, and bad breath. There is also a risk that detox product ingredient labels may not be accurate, increasing the risk of side effects, potential overdoses, or other adverse events.

In Spain, a 50-year-old man died after adding the wrong ingredient to a liver detox product he was using, leading to manganese poisoning.

The thing to stress is that some people should definitely not try detox products. This includes those with chronic medical conditions, eating disorders, the elderly, children and pregnant or breastfeeding women. However, one positive aspect of detox programs is that they may help raise awareness of your current dietary, alcohol, or lifestyle habits that can be improved. Thinking about these things can provide motivation to try to eat healthier.