WHY "JUICING" IS UNNECESSARY FOR DETOXIFICATION

Every once in a while I am scrolling on s

ocial media and come across some influencers promoting ''miracle products'' or making juices to help ''detox the body'' or ''give a break to their system''. I want to break things down a little bit to enlighten you on why this is a complete waste of time (and money!).

Unfortunately, there’s no evidence that toxins build up in the body and impair its normal function. The human body was made with natural detoxifiers called the kidneys and the liver. They “filter” everything going through our body and excrete the wastes through urine and stool. There is no detox, whether that be a juice or some powder, that will help this process. Instead, supporting your body with a balanced diet, regular movement, and plenty of sleep are the real keys to maintaining health and wellness.

It’s disheartening to see people pour money into these so-called “miracle products.” Not only are they often costly, but they’re also unregulated, meaning there’s no guarantee of what’s actually inside them.

Why do some people see results?

The ''results'' that are seen with some of these are due to two mechanisms:

- In some cases, these “juice cleanse” are so low in protein and calories, and will consequently cause obvious weight loss. However, once they start eating again, these people automatically regain all the weight they have lost and sometimes more, because they have been deprived of foods they wanted. As opposed to some of the false claims, you are not giving your organs a ''break'' when you are putting your body through a cleanse. You are actually making your body work harder to combat the lack of energy.

- In other cases, the products contain some ingredients acting as laxatives. Emptying your gut is definitely not a way of “cleansing” or “detoxifying” the body. This can also cause symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, bloating, etc, which are some of the reasons people believe they need to cleanse their body in the first place. Do you see the vicious cycle?

Don't be fooled. Trust me when I tell you that it is definitely not worth it.

What can we do to help our body?

• Eat tons of fruits and vegetables: these foods are usually packed with fibre, which has incredible benefits for the human body. It can help to maintain our gut health, lowers cholesterol, controls blood sugars and makes us feel fuller for longer. 

• Reduce alcohol consumption: by reducing the amount of alcohol in circulation, your liver will be able to focus on performing its usual tasks of detoxifying your body without disruption. 

• Move your body (while having fun!): this will keep your bowels moving and have a positive impact on your mental health.

If you like making juices or “healthy” drinks, go for it. They are usually packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants anyways that surely won’t negatively affect your health. Just remember that anything “detox” is a pure marketing scam!