By Marcela Barillas (nutritionist)
A fad diet is a popular dietary pattern known for being a quick fix for weight loss. These diets are quite appealing due to their proposed claims, but there is little evidence to support their effectiveness. Rather, certain studies suggest the negative health consequences of long-term adherence to such dietary patterns. Many fad diets have emerged in recent decades. Here we will explore the detox diet.
What are detox diets?
There is no official definition of a “detox diet,” and many people find conflicting information about the best way to detoxify, as there are many different methods people try. Some of the most popular methods include the following recommendations:
- Fasting for a few days.
- Juice fasting.
- Drinking certain infusions.
- Use of enemas, laxatives or diuretics.
- Eliminating foods such as added sugars, alcohol, and processed foods.
“Detox” approaches challenge the general principles of human physiology, as the liver and kidneys are quite efficient at eliminating exogenous and endogenous toxins from our body, along with extrarenal excretion of toxins in sebum and sweat.
Detoxification protocols can often lead people to unnecessarily restrict food for a period of time, which can pose potential health risks. Studies in mice have shown that a period of energy restriction is often followed by binge eating, although this phenomenon has not yet been established in humans.
Another study reported an increase in stress hormone levels in women due to a restricted intake of 1,200 kcal/day. There is considerable evidence that stress stimulates appetite, which promotes weight gain through elevated cortisol levels.
Detoxing may seem like an attractive idea, but there is not enough evidence to prove that these “detox” diets help us lose weight, get rid of toxins, and increase our energy.
On the contrary, following these diets can harm our health. The best way to stay healthy is to have a healthy and balanced diet, hydrate with water, and exercise regularly. This will help the body’s natural detoxification processes (kidneys, liver, and digestive system).
Source: Esto es azúcar