A Healthy Approach to Detox Dieting...KEYWORDS: detox dieting body clensing diet modified fast detox by fasting is fasting safe detox program AUTHOR: Lynn Grieger, RD, CDE Do we need to cleanse and detoxify our bodies on a regular basis for optimum health? Cleansing herbal teas, laxatives, juice fasts and colonic irrigation are popular. Proponents of fasting insist that environmental toxins and food additives build up in our bodies over time and must be removed periodically through fasting and detoxification procedures. Others state that fasting merely deprives the body of energy and vital nutrients and is detrimental to your health. Who's right?

Why fast?

Our bodies have their own built-in detoxification system in the liver and kidneys. These organs filter blood on an ongoing basis to remove wastes and toxins, which are then excreted in urine, feces and sweat. Proponents of detox programs believe that fasts and other types of cleansing can relieve many common complaints, such as headaches, joint pain, indigestion, constipation, fatigue, allergies and even anxiety. Some programs have a long history of use in other cultures, yet there is little scientific evidence to back up their health claims.

Will fasting help me lose weight?

Fasting causes a loss of water, not body fat. According to dietitian Ellen Coleman, after the first day of fasting, the carbohydrates stored in the liver are depleted. Since the body tries to maintain blood sugar levels within a normal range, protein stores from muscle (and eventually even from organs such as the heart and kidneys) are broken down to supply amino acids that can be converted to glucose to maintain blood sugar levels. After fasting for a week, the loss of muscle tissue may comprise as much as one-third of the total weight loss. Fasting also can slow your metabolism, making it even more difficult to maintain that weight loss. The bottom line: Fasting to lose weight doesn't make any sense and can cause serious health problems.

What about a modified fast?

Simple fasting involves eating nothing and drinking only water. Obviously, we can't live for long on that kind of program. Today's modified fasts often use fresh fruit or vegetable juices, and sometimes brown rice, to treat allergies, arthritis, psoriasis and even high blood pressure. Little scientific research on modified fasts has been reported, yet the results may be promising. The bottom line: Supervised by a medical professional, a two- or three-day modified fast may in fact help decrease symptoms of some chronic illnesses. To maintain those benefits, a healthy diet and lifestyle should be followed after the fast.

Is fasting safe?

Certain people should never attempt any type of fast unless they are strictly monitored by their physician. Anyone with diabetes, heart disease, or kidney or liver disease should avoid fasts. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and children should also avoid fasts. Any fast carries the risk of dehydration and altered electrolyte levels, which can trigger sudden heart problems. Scientific research (not personal promotions and beliefs) shows that fasting has few health benefits. The rapid weight loss seen with fasting is due to water loss, which can lead to fatigue and dizziness. Fasting doesn't cleanse our body; in fact, the opposite is true. Fasting causes the production of ketones, which can put a burden on the kidneys. Prolonged fasting can lead to muscle wasting and depletion of essential minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, sodium and potassium. The bottom line: If you have any health problems, check with your physician before starting any type of fast.

Will a detox program improve my health?

Proponents of detox encourage people to flush toxins out of their bodies by increasing their urine and feces output. Dehydration and altered electrolyte levels can be a result of a detox program, causing health problems instead of solving them. In addition, someone might use a detox program instead of seeking medical advice for potentially serious health problems, causing even more damage.

The bottom line:

Laxatives and diuretics can be habit forming as well as dangerous. Unless prescribed by a physician, avoid any type of detox program, even those that are "all natural."