Fad or fact: Do detox diets or cleanses really work?

The idea to eat clean and shed some extra pounds always peaks during this time of year, whether it is to fit into that sparkly dress or to get a head start on a New Year’s resolution. “A detox plan isn’t a weight loss plan," notes Mumbai-based clinical dietician and sports nutritionist Zainab Gulamhusein. “Detox diets like fasting diets, juice or green juice diets aren’t essential since our own bodies naturally detoxify and filter toxins through the liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, and the digestive system," Gulamhusein says. “Detoxes might aid weight loss, but they deprive the body and the gut of essential nutrients," Mumbai-based nutritionist Maithili Kelkar says. “Probiotic foods provide an effective detox that enhances metabolism, energy, and long-term health in a way traditional fad detoxes simply can’t match," Kelkar says.