Detoxing doesn't work

A new report by Sense About Science suggests that expensive and complex detox regimes are a waste of time and money. The report written by a group of scientists and nutritionists, suggests most people would be better off drinking plenty of tap water and having a few early nights. Many agree that the body is well adapted to getting rid of 'toxic' substances, using specialised organs like the blood, kidneys and liver, and don't need special help. Some suggest that by presenting themselves as pseudo-medicines, such detoxes imply that they have been subject to scientific testing when most have not. Some might actually be harmful.

I would add that people struggling with eating disorders can be particularly vulnerable to such products as the pressure towards overeating at Christmas may affect them differentially. But it's important to remember that behaviour change is usually only successful if it's sustained. Rather than looking for quick fixes, the dull truth is that balanced and healthy eating is something we need to work at throughout the year.

For more discussion of the report, you can listen again to an interview with a leading dietician from St Georges Hospital broadcast on You and Yours on Radio 4.

Sense About Science is an independent charitable trust that works to ensure evidence is central to public discussions about science and medicine.