Are detox drinks really good?Experts weigh in - India Today

From lemon water to fruit drinks, detox drinks are widely considered to be health-boosting.But do they really purify the body?An expert dietitian explains what detox drinks actually do and don't do.

Are detox drinks really helpful?Experts weigh in

From lemonade to fruit smoothies, tox drinks are widely touted as health boosters.But do they really cleanse the body?The nutritionist explains what detox drinks do and don't do.

The idea of ​​beginning the day with a "detox drink" is deeply embedded in urban welness culture.fhen warming your health.

To separate fact from fiction, we spoke to Dt. Parmeet Kaur, registered dietitian at Marengo Asia Hospital, who offers an informed, science-based perspective on what detox drinks can and can't do.

What DETOX drinks actually do and what they don't

According to Dr. Kaur, the concept of detoxification is often misunderstood.

“The body already has a very efficient detoxification system in the form of the liver, kidneys, intestines and lungs,” she explains.“No drink can magically flush out toxins overnight.”

However, he is quick to add that this doesn't make detox drinks useless.

“These drinks provide hydration, aid digestion and provide nutrients when they are part of a balanced and healthy routine.

Morning routine that really helps

One of the most recommended detox drinks is warm lemon water on an empty stomach.D.T.Kaur says the benefits are often overstated but are well worth it.

"Hot water with lemon helps to hydrate and gently stimulate digestion first thing in the morning," she says."It can help people feel lighter, reduce bloating and encourage regular bowel movements."

She emphasizes that the benefits come less from "detoxification" and more from hydration and routine.

"Many people who feel better after lemon water are simply correcting chronic dehydration," he says.

Foods that are more effective than "detox" claims

Rather than relying solely on alcohol, Dt. Kaur emphasizes the importance of what you do after your morning drink.

"Choosing hydrating, nutrient-dense foods is more important than any detox drink alone," she says.

She recommends simple whole foods like papaya, berries and watermelon with soaked almonds and walnuts, oatmeal, yogurt or eggs.

"They provide fiber, protein and sustained energy to aid digestion and keep you full longer," she explains.

From a metabolic point of view, this is more important than the so-called cleansing effect.

Can detox drinks help with weight loss?

Expectations need to be adjusted here.

"Detox drinks do not directly cause fat loss," Dt.States Kaur "They can help manage metabolism by improving hydration and reducing unnecessary calorie consumption, but weight loss depends on overall diet, exercise, sleep and consistency."

He warns against extreme detox regimens or liquid-only cleanses.

"Such practices can slow metabolism, cause muscle loss and lead to nutritional deficiencies," he warned.

WATER WITH FRUIT: CALM OR HELPFUL?

Infusing water with fruit, herbs or vegetables is another popular trend.D.T. Kaur considers it a harmless and sometimes useful habit.

"Infused water may contain small amounts of vitamins and antioxidants," she says."More importantly, it encourages people to drink more water, which supports overall health."

The key, she says, is to treat it as a means of hydration rather than a medical intervention.