Why Detox is a Myth

A healthy body detoxifies itself. It doesn’t have to be cleaned of toxins either, because there aren’t any. Do we then need detox cures and products at all?

That’s what it’s about:

Detox is en vogue and is supposed to detoxify the body

Detoxists believe that modern humans ingest too many toxins and pollutants . The causes for this are an unhealthy diet with too much fat, sugar and additives as well as nicotine and alcohol. But environmental toxins and stress are also blamed for the fact that our body is no longer able to detoxify and cleanse itself. The result, according to the detox theory: ” slags” are deposited in our organs and connective tissue , which are responsible for all sorts of discomfort. Detox cures could rid our bodies of these unwanted substances.

While the variety of detox diets and products continues to increase, science has not yet been able to prove waste products in the body or the benefits of detox regimens .

That’s why we need to talk about it:

Our body detoxifies itself

From a scientific point of view, detoxification of the body with the help of detox measures is not necessary . A healthy human body cleans itself. It eliminates unwanted substances via the liver, kidneys, intestines, skin and respiration. Toxic substances are converted in the liver and excreted via the kidneys and intestines, for example when alcohol is broken down. In the case of “real” poisoning, on the other hand, such as that caused by the wrong dosage of medication, the body needs medical measures, for example an antidote. Dioxins and toxic heavy metals like lead can also build up in the body when exposed to high levels. However, there is no scientific evidence that detox can help with such poisoning.

Be careful when using detox products

There are numerous types of detox regimens. Typically, they are a juice diet that is carried out over a few days, beginning with a bowel movement. Detox friends refer to this as ” colon cleansing” . There are various products on the market that are supposed to help with this, such as foot plasters, detoxification tablets, teas, dietary supplements or so-called superfoods.

More dangerous than useful

The consumer centers warn of such products. They are expensive and the term “detox” is used purely for promotional purposes. Particularly problematic: The products have not been examined with regard to their promised effects and their composition. Specifically, the consumer advice centers advise you to consult a doctor or pharmacist if you want to take detox products regularly. The ingredients can interact with medication or lead to increased excretion of minerals due to their draining effect, which can disrupt the electrolyte balance.

“Detox” only if approved

The Federal Court of Justice ruled in 2017 that the term “detox” is a health claim and as such may not be used for products that do not have a health-related approval. However, the manufacturers continue to use the image of the term by slightly modifying their designations such as “de-tox”, “d-tox” or “minus Tox”.

And now?

Not without medical supervision

The German Society for Nutrition advises not to follow a detox diet without medical supervision. While it can be a stepping stone to changing eating habits, if it is carried out for too long it can lead to nutrient deficiencies such as protein and fat. Weight loss through a detox diet is primarily based on a reduction in water and not body fat, which promotes a yo-yo effect. If we want to do something good for ourselves, we should eat varied, wholesome and mainly plant-based foods . This affects our health and a healthy body creates detoxification and cleansing all by itself.