Cleansing Confusion:
Considering the proposed benefits of detoxification
By Nancy Burke, R.D.;
Danielle Karsies, M.S., R.D.; and
Melissa Shannon-Hagen, R.D., CSO,
of the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center
Symptom Management and
Supportive Care Program
Fight cancer, lose weight, get glowing skin, boost your health and well-being.
These are just some of the proposed benefits of detoxification.
Advocates for detox claim our bodies are continually bombarded with toxins from our food and the environment, such as pesticides, food additives,
pollution and cigarette smoke. They claim these toxins build up in our bodies and cause a variety of health problems. They also claim that
special treatments -- including herbals, supplements or special diets -- help to remove these toxins from our body.
In fact, there is no reliable evidence that our bodies are fatigued through normal digestion or that the body retains toxins that are dangerous to our health. Our kidneys
and liver act as efficient filters, processors and eliminators of toxins.
TIPS
Follow these tips for a healthy lifestyle:
- Don't smoke.
- Drink alcohol in moderation: at most, one drink for women
per day, two for men.
- Be physically active at least 30 minutes, five days a week.
- Eat a healthy diet with an emphasis on fruits and vegetables,
whole grains and legumes.
- Limit your intake of processed and red meats.
- Try to eat foods that have been minimally processed or that
are closest to the form in which they were grown.
Most detox diets promote more fruit, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds and lots of water, all of which are healthy, fiber-rich diet changes. The
problem lies in the foods that are banned -- typically wheat, dairy, meat, fish, eggs, salt and sugar. For people actively receiving cancer
treatment, detox diets fall short on many nutrients and could lead to deficiencies, lowered immunity or unwanted weight loss.
Patients with cancer should avoid detoxification programs that restrict consumption of adequate amounts of food or restrict certain food groups,
as this could worsen illness or potentially decrease a treatment's effectiveness. For example, an abrupt switch to a high-fiber diet can cause
constipation, especially if you don't also get enough fluids.
Other detox methods such as herbal tonics, juicing and colonic cleansing can have more harmful effects. Herbs such as licorice, if used in
excess, may produce high blood pressure, low potassium levels and cardiac arrest. Excessive juicing or laxative use can
cause diarrhea, which can lead to fluid and electrolyte losses. Colonic enemas, such as coffee enemas, have been linked with at least three
deaths due to severe electrolyte losses and infection. The key is not to focus on fad diets or quick fixes, but to make healthy
diet and lifestyle choices.
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