Full Body Detox

A dramatic fast after a dramatic fortnight tends to continue the same pattern of extremes, and the rebound is usually worse than the original excess. Regular meals, restored sleep and less alcohol do more over a fortnight than three days of nothing. Read more

A juice-only period removes fibre, is usually high in fruit sugar, and leaves you short of protein. You will lose weight, because it is mostly water and you are eating very little, and you will regain it. If you like juice, have it alongside food rather than instead of it. Read more

Most people feel noticeably better within four or five days once sleep and hydration are back, and settled within a fortnight. If you still feel heavy, tired and low after three weeks of sensible eating, that is worth a doctor's appointment rather than a stronger cleanse. Read more

Your body detoxes itself naturally through the liver, kidneys, gut, lungs and skin. You support it by drinking enough water, eating balanced meals with plenty of vegetables, dal and whole grains, moving for at least 150 minutes a week, sleeping seven or more hours, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol and getting regular health checks. No special product is needed. Read more

There is little good evidence that they do. A 2015 review found no randomised controlled trials of commercial detox diets in humans, and NCCIH found no compelling research that they eliminate toxins or help with lasting weight loss. Weight lost on a cleanse mostly comes from eating fewer calories and usually returns once normal eating resumes. Read more

A gentle 7-day reset based on water, balanced meals, walking, sleep and cutting alcohol and tobacco is safe for most healthy adults. Extreme versions that involve fasting, juice-only diets or laxatives are riskier and can cause dehydration or electrolyte problems. If you have a health condition, are pregnant or take regular medicines, check with your doctor first. Read more