Detox through patches

Naturally, we all have phases where we feel completely drained. Our daily lives are stressful; there's always something to do. The family needs to be taken care of, and/or the boss wants us to work more than we can handle. We feel exhausted and tired, even when we wake up in the morning, and wonder why we can't perform as much as we used to. Why we're not as productive as before.

Here's where these remedies come into play. They promise us that we'll feel great again if we detoxify our bodies. If we rid ourselves of all sorts of toxins. We're supposed to stick patches on the soles of our feet, and these patches will then simply draw out the toxins from our bodies. Overnight, while we sleep. Maybe we'll even lose a pound or two in the process. What's the truth behind it? Let's take a closer look.

Does our body really need help?

In fact, experts agree that our bodies don't actually need detoxification. Even the term 'detox' itself is misleading, according to Annett Reinke, the team leader for food and nutrition at the Consumer Advice Center in Brandenburg. Those are some strong words. Let's take an even closer look.

It would imply that we need to completely detoxify. Hamburg-based nutritionist Matthias Riedl puts it even more plainly. When asked if the body needs detoxification, he says, 'It does that on its own, and quite excellently.' These are very clear statements. Since birth, our bodies have adapted to various challenges and have mechanisms in place to promptly and safely remove toxins from the body.

We have excellent organs for this ourselves.

All the toxins that enter our bodies are removed or rendered harmless by our cleansing organs. The liver, intestines, kidneys, and even the lungs constantly work to eliminate any harmful substances. They break them down and expel them from the body. Of course, in cases of medication overdoses, for example, intervention may be necessary, but how often does that occur?

There are indeed poisonings that can occur, such as those caused by contaminated dwellings. For example, if there's lead in the pipes and one ingests it through drinking water, or accumulations of other harmful substances. However, it's important to note that none of the detox products available on the market could help in such cases. For this, one should consult an environmental physician who knows exactly what to do.

What about 'cleansing'?

Many manufacturers of so-called detox products also promise a cleansing effect. They claim that our bodies will be purified, rid of harmful 'sludge', and, unsurprisingly, shed a few pounds in the process. Consumer advocate Annett Reinke, when asked about this, also states clearly: 'There is no such thing as sludge.'

There are other claims made in advertising as well. They say the immune system will be strengthened and overall performance increased. However, Annett Reinke also mentions that none of these claims can be scientifically proven. She says: 'Products available over the counter with supposed detoxifying effects are expensive and unnecessary.' So, now you know what to make of that. What about other remedies?

Let's take a closer look at detox patches.

Annett Reinke particularly criticizes detox patches as highly dubious. These patches are supposed to visibly cleanse the body. Allegedly, this is proven by the many photos attached to the advertisements. You stick the wonderfully white patch on the soles of your feet, and the next morning they are horribly discolored. A clear indication that toxins have been drawn out of the body?

'The dark coloration could be caused by the combination of warmth under the bedcovers and moisture,' says Ms. Reinke. Actually, it makes sense. If these patches contain any herbs that are applied to the foot when dry, they will naturally react to warmth and moisture on the foot. Just like if you place a tea bag on a damp cloth, it will change color.

Reactions have already been taken.

Since scientific evidence is lacking, manufacturers have been prohibited from advertising with the term 'detox'. This applies especially to food products. In 2018, the Federal Court of Justice ruled that the term 'detox' cannot be used to advertise food products anymore. However, not all manufacturers comply with these regulations, and they have found ways to circumvent the term 'detox'.

Of course, some of these products do have positive effects on the body. Green tea can be beneficial to health, as can good old healing clay. Nutrition expert Riedl says, 'They don't harm the body, but they don't have the detoxifying effect that is claimed.' So, there's no need for expensive supplements that don't benefit the body.

There's also a warning.

The nutrition expert advises against using certain detox products altogether. Detoxifying juice cleanses are particularly meant here. You receive a package containing various juices made from vegetables and fruits, and you're supposed to consume them exclusively for a certain period. However, these juices are often too high in sugar, which definitely isn't good for your health.

Products that cause significant dehydration are also not recommended. Consuming these over an extended period risks flushing out essential nutrients from the body. Sodium, potassium, magnesium, and others are crucial for a well-functioning organism and can be lost through dehydration. This can lead to various unpleasant consequences, from muscle cramps to heart rhythm disturbances.

Avoid pollutants as much as possible.

Actually, it's quite simple. If you take care of yourself, if you don't constantly expose yourself to toxins like alcohol and nicotine, then you don't need to worry about the need for detoxification. A healthy diet consisting of good carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables should be sufficient for the body to cleanse itself when necessary.

Ideally, buy fruits and vegetables from controlled cultivation or always wash them very thoroughly. Drinking enough water also helps the body quickly eliminate the harmful substances we consume. Consume little sugar, little fat, or preferably only good fats, and you should have no obstacles to living a healthy and energetic life.

A good diet and a balanced lifestyle.

When you really think about it, aren't these detox products just another excuse to avoid making changes in one's life? Who truly believes that you can stay healthy with minimal effort? Who thinks that you can remain fit and productive without exercise and a good, balanced diet? What exactly are patches that you stick on your feet supposed to change about that? Are these products supposed to compensate for everything else we're doing wrong?

Eat consciously. Eat healthily. Engage in physical activity, which doesn't necessarily have to be super strenuous. Drink plenty of water, avoid toxins like alcohol and nicotine. Maybe incorporate intermittent fasting if you want to lose weight. All of these are simple ways to achieve a healthy and efficient body. There's no need for expensive products that ultimately don't do anything and could even be harmful in the worst case scenario. And for our skin and beauty, all we need is a good and healthy lifestyle.