The Lemon Detox Diet -- Does It Really Work?

You probably figured out that this detox "diet" includes lemon, but what else? Well, not much.

Keep in mind that this regimen is not really a diet, and it's certainly not meant to be maintained long-term. Rather, it is much more similar to a fast, and its main purpose is to detoxify or cleanse the body.

The official Master Cleanse Diet includes the following:

1) A warm saltwater "flush" that you drink each morning. This functions as a laxative and will generally induce a bowel movement within an hour (for some, even faster).

To make the saltwater flush, use two tablespoons of sea salt and one quart of warm water (preferably filtered). Make sure to use uniodized sea salt; do not use table salt. Gulp the saltwater down as quickly as possible-- you'll probably want to hold your nose!

Note that some people react to the saltwater with vomiting or severe diarrhea, in which case an herbal laxative tea may be substituted.

2) Unlimited quantities of a "lemonade" mix, taken hot or cold, made of lemon juice, filtered water, grade A maple syrup & cayenne pepper. The cayenne pepper can be a real shock to those who aren't used to spicy foods, so be prepared!

It is strongly recommended that all ingredients are certified organic, as the presence of pesticides and other agrochemicals would defeat the purpose of detoxification!

3) A laxative tea that you drink each night. This is to be taken plain, with no added sweeteners. Master Cleanse experts recommend a tea made by Traditional Medicinals called "Smooth Move," but you can use any herbal laxative tea as long as it is all-natural.

It is recommended to maintain this fast for at least 10 days in order to gain the full detoxifying effects. When coming off the diet, you must slowly reintroduce solid food.

For the first few days off the Master Cleanse, it's usually recommended to stick with orange juice and other fruit juices. As you feel comfortable, you can introduce solid food. Experts advise consuming easily digested and raw foods during this period.

Also remember that the Master Cleanse is a great way to transition into a healthier lifestyle. You can reflect on your prior diet and health choices, and hopefully resolve to live a healthier, detoxified life!

As you can see, the lemon detox diet is a liquid fast that requires careful planning and consideration. This is not a fad diet to start doing on the spur of the moment. Before you start the Master Cleanse, be sure that you're in good health all around, both physically and emotionally. Maintain a positive attitude and listen to your body.

Side effects of the Master Cleanse are often referred to as "detox symptoms." Although ultimately the diet will leave you feeling healthy and energized, the process of detoxifying often causes a flare of unpleasant symptoms. As you remove poisons from your body, you may experience the following:

1) Cravings. These can be especially difficult for people who regularly consume addictive products such as caffeine, sugar or nicotine. When you are experiencing withdrawal from such chemicals, you may get headaches or intense cravings. Remember, these cravings will pass, but only if you stick it out.

If you experience hunger, drink some of the lemonade. It may seem like a poor substitute for food, but it's surprisingly filling!

2) Fatigue. The process of detoxification requires your body to work extra hard to eliminate all the toxins it has accumulated. Most of your energy is directed toward healing and eliminating, and this may make you feel tired.

Also keep in mind that this is a fast, thus you will be consuming very few calories. It's a good idea to rest and take it easy during the Master Cleanse; don't overexert yourself and always listen to your body.

3) Irritability. Have you ever spent time with someone who was trying to quit smoking? We often become irritable when we have to go without an old habit. A fast can be difficult for those who have an unhealthy relationship with food, such as those who eat to cure boredom.

Prepare for the Master Cleanse by examining your relationship with food, and enter the fast in a peaceful state of mind. Be aware of things you can do to calm yourself, such as closing your eyes, deep breathing, taking a bath, or stretching, in case you become irritable.

4) Headaches. As mentioned above, people who regularly consume caffeine products often experience headaches while doing the Master Cleanse. If you often drink coffee, soda, caffeinated tea or energy drinks, you would benefit from weaning yourself off these drinks before you start the fast.

5) Aches & Pains. For those who have very high levels of toxins, more severe symptoms may occur. These include physical aches and pains, and also nausea or vomiting. While these are very rare, Master Cleanse experts state that they are due to the elimination of large amounts of toxins.

If you experience any of these symptoms, stay strong and follow through with the fast for a day or two. Most people experience relief from symptoms within a day. The saltwater flush and laxative tea will bring about the elimination of the toxins that are causing discomfort, so you should feel better after each elimination.

If you continue experience symptoms for much longer than a day or two, or if your symptoms are particularly severe, you may want to reassess. If you are properly prepared for the Master Cleanse, however, you shouldn't experience any problems.