So do we really need to detox?

So do we really need to detox?
The short answer is ‘no’. As many of the kits themselves point out, our bodies are well-equipped with self-cleansing mechanisms, and detoxification occurs on a continual basis in the body — the lungs, kidneys, liver, gastrointestinal tract, skin and immune system all play a part in effectively removing or eliminating toxins.

Symptoms like bloating and fatigue may be an indication of an unhealthy lifestyle, or a lack of vital nutrients because of poor eating habits — not of toxic build-up. For example, constipation, bloating and flatulence can all result from a lack of fibre.

And claims that physical side effects of the detox programs like coated tongue, bad breath, fatigue and various aches and pains are evidence that your body is getting rid of toxins just aren’t sustainable. HILDE HEMMES’ HERBALS, for example, claims that body odour as a side effect of its program “is a good sign as it is the result of toxic elimination”. In fact this and nail-polish-remover-smelling breath are both symptoms of your body burning fat while you’re on a low-carbohydrate diet (as is recommended by HILDA HEMMES in particular). You can lose a similar amount of body fat by following any calorie-restricted diet, but a more balanced, less extreme one won’t have these side effects.

The bottom line is that no studies have shown that a detox regimen increases the elimination of toxins