What is a body detox? In wellness marketing, the term covers plans such as juice cleanses, fasts and supplements that claim to remove toxins or help people lose weight. The methods differ, so look at what a specific plan asks you to do.
Check what the program promises
Ask which substance the program claims to remove and how that would be measured. Research on commercial detox programs is limited, and the evidence does not establish that these regimens remove unspecified toxins.
Consider the risks
Severe food restriction, laxatives and unpasteurized juices can carry risks. Ask a clinician before making a major diet change, especially if you take medication or have a condition that affects what you can eat or drink.
Use the right care for the problem
Medical treatment for a specific exposure is a separate clinical decision. If a wellness claim worries you, ask a clinician to help you evaluate the claim and decide what steps fit your situation.
For more detail, see NIH’s review of detoxes and cleanses. Also see Battling Cravings While You Body Detox for another part of this series.