Detoxing Is a Wellness Scam, and Science Proves It

article by Emily Collyer

Why Your Body Doesn’t Need a “Cleanse”

Feeling sluggish or bloated? You might be tempted by a juice cleanse, colon cleanse, or detox diet. These approaches are popular, but research suggests that the body already has natural systems to manage everyday waste products and compounds.

The Appeal of “Detoxing”

Detox diets and products often promise rapid weight changes, clearer skin, or improved digestion. While they can seem appealing—especially after periods of indulgence—the effects are typically short-term and related to changes in fluid intake rather than the removal of harmful substances.

Many detox products form a significant part of a growing industry. For perspective, the global detox market was valued at around USD 66 billion in 2024 (And, 2025).

What the Evidence Shows

Current scientific evidence does not support the idea that detox diets or colon cleanses remove toxins from the body. Studies examining these approaches often have small sample sizes, limited duration, or do not measure specific toxins (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, 2019).

Weight changes seen during detox protocols are usually temporary and often result from lower calorie intake or water loss rather than fat reduction. Colon cleansing has not been shown to provide general health benefits and may temporarily disrupt gut microbiota.

How Your Body Naturally Processes Compounds

Your body is equipped with organs and systems that work continuously to manage everyday compounds:

Liver: Converts substances into forms that can be excreted.
Kidneys: Filter blood and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
Intestines: Eliminate waste through bowel movements; the gut microbiome helps process compounds.
Lungs: Expel certain volatile compounds during exhalation.
Skin: Removes small amounts of substances through sweat; sebum may help process fat-soluble compounds.
Immune system: Responds to potentially harmful agents.

These systems function effectively when supported by overall healthy habits. Nutrients such as B vitamins, zinc, copper, and vitamin C are involved in normal metabolic processes that support these pathways.

Supporting Your Body Safely

Instead of relying on cleanses or restrictive diets, consider lifestyle habits that support your natural processes:

Whole foods: Provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Regular movement: Encourages circulation and metabolism.
Adequate sleep: Supports normal metabolic and repair processes.
Moderation: Reducing alcohol, highly processed foods, and added sugars helps reduce unnecessary burden on metabolic systems.

Takeaway

Detox diets and “cleanses” are not necessary for the body to manage compounds naturally. Supporting your body with balanced nutrition, movement, sleep, and moderation is a safe, evidence-based approach to feeling your best.

Think of your body as a sophisticated system designed to maintain balance, consistent healthy habits provide the most effective support.