Detox Diets

One of the latest crazes in dieting is the detoxification or "detox" diet. A detox diet is a term for any radial diet that prohibits most everything with the exception of a few vegetables and liquids in efforts to lose vast amounts of weight in a very short period of time. There are a few variations, include the "Master Cleanse", or the cabbage juice version, but ultimately, they all have the same end result.

One on hand, detox diets seem to be effective. People who are disciplined enough to stick to them do seem to lose weight. And since most detox diets only last a few days, most people won't do too much nutritional damge to their bodies.

However, on the other hand, detox diets are not a good solution to trying to lose weight long term. As soon as you incorporate normal foods back in your diet, you will gain the weight back. Additionally, some people get quite ill from doing a detox diet. Some of the combinations of the foods some of the varieties of cleanses require can cause serious indigestion. Most of the weight loss ends up coming from becoming very dehydrated from diarrhea. It's not a long term solution, and the rapid weight loss and regain can have some damaging effects on your body.

If you're looking to lose weight, start early and do it right. If you have a goal, such as a wedding or a class reunion, don't try to lose 10 lbs 2 weeks before the wedding. Set yourself a plan, and stick to it. Everything that is worth having requires a little work!