Results of the Master Cleanse Diet

The results of the Master Cleanse differ from person to person. The cleanse usually lasts 10 days and is done to improve your colon's to lose weight. During the cleanse, only lemon juice, maple syrup, water and cayenne pepper are consumed, with the possible inclusion of laxative tea and saltwater. Those performing the cleanse typically lose weight and might feel motivated to improve their diet, but the process could be unhealthy.

Medical Opinion of Colon Cleansing

• As with most unorthodox diet plans, medical professionals have different opinions about the Master Cleanse. Some see no harm in colon cleansing, especially if it helps the patient feel better. Dr. Michael Picco, M.D., a gastroenterologist at the Mayo Clinic, believes the Master Cleanse includes benefits like increased levels of energy, focus and feelings of lightness. As long as there are no ill health effects, and the cleanse helps a patient make healthy changes in his diet, the cleanse's unpleasantness is worth it.

  Others doctors believe the risks of colon cleansing outweigh the positive results. Severely restricting calories causes your body to react as if it is being starved, so it uses muscle and lean tissue for energy. Dr. Ray Sahelian, M.D., a board-certified family practitioner, believes reducing calorie intake but keeping it at the healthy level of about 1,000 to 1,200 calories per day for a few weeks is healthier than cleansing. He believes cleanses upset and alter the body's homeostasis and might cause harm. The result is weight loss, but it is the loss of muscle and not unwanted fat. The cleanse lacks nutrients, vitamins, fiber and essential fatty acids, all part of a healthy diet. A lack of mental clarity is another concern for those performing the cleanse, although some believe fasting is a vital part of achieving mental clarity and fast for spiritual reasons.

During the Cleanse

• Some people feel healthier on the cleanse, but others report feeling rundown. There is the added inconvenience of numerous trips to the bathroom, and those drinking the laxative tea and saltwater mix will find this especially challenging. Some reviews of the Master Cleanse include stories about strings of feces being expelled midway through the process. It is described as rubbery and black, but it should not alarm cleansers. According to naturopath Richard Anderson, this material is mucoid plaque, built up over time in the intestines. Other side effects include fatigue, nausea and irritability.

Easing Off the Cleanse

• At the end of the cleanse, ease into a standard diet slowly. On the first day, drink freshly squeezed orange juice, with pulp, mixed with two liters of water and 2 tbsp. of maple syrup. The next day, add fruits and vegetables as well as juices and broth. Eat and drink slowly because your stomach has shrunk during the cleanse. You will feel full faster than before, and if you eat too much, it will result in cramping and bloating. On day three, consume mainly solid fruits and vegetables. There should be no further need to rely on juice for your daily calories.

Staying Healthy

• As you return to a normal diet, consume primarily healthful foods like fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. Any weight lost on the cleanse will not return if you continue to make smart food choices, stay active and drink plenty of water. If you made the commitment to cleansing and making healthy changes, there is no reason to return to an unhealthy lifestyle once the cleanse has ended.