Side Effects of a Lemon Cleanse

People use the lemon cleanse, or Master Cleanse, to help jump-start weight loss routines, reignite a healthy lifestyle or just clean out the body's digestive system. A lemon cleanse, consisting of a mixture of fresh lemon juice, purified or distilled water, maple syrup and red pepper, should be completed in at least 10 days. During the course of those days, however, many people experience temporary side effects of a lemon cleanse.

Headaches

• One of the common side effects of a lemon cleanse is headaches, especially among people who drink large amounts of caffeine. This side effect usually disappears after three or four days.

Cravings

• "Detox Guide" states that people using a lemon cleanse may crave certain foods, such as hamburgers or French fries, which can be enhanced by their aromas. A food craving is a psychological desire for certain foods.

Hunger

• Unlike cravings, many people feel physical hunger when they decide to embark on a lemon cleanse. People experiencing hunger should drink another glass of the lemon beverage to decrease feelings of hunger.

Lethargy

• "Detox Guide" says that one side effect of a lemon cleanse includes lethargy; however, this side effect decreases after a few days, and people actually become more energetic.

Bowel Movements and Urination

• One of the side effects of a lemon cleanse, as with many other detox programs, is frequent bowl movements and urination, because the body is getting rid of all its accumulated waste products.

Sore Teeth

• Sore teeth are a common side effect of a lemon cleanse for people with sensitive teeth. The acid in the lemons causes pain for them; therefore, they should rinse their mouths after drinking the beverage.