Q: Can a Detox Diet Safely Help Me Lose Weight?

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A. I hate to be the one to break it to you, but no. A detox diet, whether it’s all-liquid or based on supplements or allows just a few foods, is a fancy name for a crash diet, which according to a December 2010 study in the Journal of Neuroscience can raise stress hormones and make you more likely to binge later. You may feel lighter and less bloated because the detox evacuates your gastrointestinal system. But this can lead to dehydration—and the weight lost is mostly water. When you return to your usual habits, you’ll likely gain back those pounds.

Here’s another myth busted: a detox regimen doesn’t remove toxins from your body. This theory is not supported by science. Your liver and kidneys already naturally eliminate toxins from the blood.

However, detoxes can be good for your psyche since they deliver fast results. After all, you want to see signs of success if you're making sacrifices. You can get the benefits of “detoxing” safely by eating three small meals—liquid or not—plus a couple servings of fruit or vegetables for snacks. Essentially, limit calories and make sure they come from nutrient-rich foods. Pick a calorie level that gives you enough energy to be physically active—at least 1,200 or 1,500. You’ll safely kick-start weight loss and gain confidence to stick to a healthy eating and exercise regimen.

—Karen Hawkins, MA, RD, LD