Detox teas are one of the most popular health crazes you probably see on social media. These teas promise users it will "cleanse" their system by getting rid of the "toxins" in the body and speed up weight loss.
Some of the most popular detox teas include Skinny Teatox, Bootea, Slendertoxtea, Flat Tummy Tea, SkinnyMe, and Skinny Mint, the Medical Daily reported. These products gained popularity over the past years as the majority of A-list celebrities, and health bloggers endorsed them on Instagram. However, do they deliver promising health benefits? Or they are harmful in the body?
A lot of people probably don't know that aside from antioxidants and herbs, these teas often contain a laxative known as Senna - which is approved for treating constipation or emptying the bowels before surgery. It usually irritates the lining of the colon, causing it to contract more than the usual, and will force electrolytes and essential waters along with fecal matter. Thus, those who are drinking detox tea are losing water weight by dehydrating themselves.
"It has no impact on fat loss because calories from food are absorbed in your small intestine long before it gets to the colon," said London-based nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert.
Women who tried taking detox teas reportedly experience some side effects such as disruptions in the menstrual cycle, headaches, fatigue, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. The problem with Senna is that it should only be used for a short period. If used beyond two weeks, it can affect the bowel functioning, making a person dependent on laxatives since the body builds a tolerance. These products might have a serious impact on the body, like in the liver and heart, in the long run.
What's worrying to health experts is that detox tea brands usually encourage people to take it on a regular basis for detoxification and cleansing. Experts warned not to immediately believe to any claims presenting such products as "miracle" or a "quick-fix remedy." These products weren't also approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
Stella Metsovas, a gut health specialist and certified clinical nutritionist, said nothing would magically detox the digestive tract - including the colon - unless a person's diet has a large percentage of plant-based fibers. And although celebrity endorsements were sometimes tempting, it's important to remember that the supposed benefits of detox teas still lack scientific evidence. It's better to stick with a healthier and safer alternative, such as meeting physical activity guidelines and following a nutritious diet.
