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Detox diets have gained immense popularity, particularly among British women seeking quick solutions for weight loss, increased energy, and improved overall well-being. These diets promise to eliminate toxins from the body and reset health. From juice cleanses to fasting regimens, the allure of a “clean slate” is compelling, especially in a world where processed foods and environmental pollutants are commonplace.
However, while detox diets may seem like the ultimate health fix, it is essential to understand their scientific basis, potential benefits, and associated risks. This guide offers a comprehensive exploration of detox diets, shedding light on their mechanisms, claims, and healthier alternatives. By the end of this article, British women will have the knowledge to make informed choices about their dietary practices and overall health.
What are Detox Diets?
Detox diets are temporary dietary interventions designed to rid the body of toxins, chemicals, and impurities. They often involve significant dietary restrictions, focusing on consuming specific foods, beverages, or supplements. Proponents claim these diets improve digestion, boost energy, and promote weight loss.
Common Types of Detox Diets and Their Claims
- Juice Cleanses
- Involve consuming only fresh fruit and vegetable juices for 1–7 days.
- Aim to flood the body with nutrients while giving the digestive system a “break.”
- Water Fasting
- Requires abstaining from all food and consuming only water for 24–72 hours.
- Claims to stimulate cell repair and autophagy (removal of damaged cells).
- Elimination Diets
- Focus on removing processed foods, sugar, gluten, dairy, and other potential allergens.
- Typically lasts 2–6 weeks to identify food sensitivities or intolerances.
- Detox Teas and Supplements
- Use herbal teas or supplements marketed to enhance liver or digestive function.
- Often include laxatives or diuretics, which may have unwanted side effects.
How Detox Diets Work
Detox diets are not supported by scientific evidence and are not recommended by the NHS. Here's what the research and NHS say about detox diets:
Lack of Scientific Evidence
There is little to no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of detox diets. A 2015 review concluded that there was no compelling research to support the use of "detox" diets for weight management or eliminating toxins from the body. Most claims made by detox diet promoters are exaggerated and not based on robust science.
Natural Detoxification
The human body has its own natural detoxification systems, primarily through the liver, kidneys, skin, and digestive system. These organs work together to process and eliminate waste products and toxins naturally, without the need for special diets or supplements.
NHS Stance
The NHS does not recommend or endorse detox diets (NHS). England's most senior doctor has warned against trying quick-fix diets and high street remedies that are "too good to be true". The NHS advises that there is no need to follow a special detox diet, as the body is well-equipped to detoxify and remove waste on its own.
Potential Risks
Detox diets can be potentially harmful, especially if followed for extended periods. Some risks include:
- Nutrient deficiencies due to restrictive eating
- Disruption of normal body functions
- Dehydration, especially if the cleanse involves fasting
- Digestive distress, particularly if laxatives are involved
Healthy Alternatives
Instead of following detox diets, the NHS recommends adopting a balanced approach to eating and lifestyle:
- Eat a varied diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Stay hydrated by drinking water and sugar-free drinks
- Limit alcohol and caffeine intake
- Get regular exercise
- Maintain a healthy sleep schedule
In conclusion, while detox diets may seem appealing, they are not scientifically proven to be effective or necessary. The NHS and other health authorities recommend focusing on overall healthy eating habits and lifestyle choices rather than relying on short-term, potentially harmful detox regimens.
Potential Benefits of Detox Diets
Despite limited scientific support, detox diets may offer some perceived benefits, particularly in the short term. These benefits often stem from cutting out processed foods and adopting healthier eating patterns.
Increased Fruit and Vegetable Intake
- Detox diets often encourage the consumption of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- For example, diets high in vitamin C (found in citrus fruits) or polyphenols (in berries) can support overall health. (NHS)
Short-Term Weight Loss
- Detox diets often result in rapid weight loss due to calorie restriction and water loss.
- While this may seem promising, the lost weight is typically regained once normal eating resumes, as it doesn’t reflect fat loss.
Improved Awareness of Eating Habits
- Following a detox diet can make individuals more mindful of their eating habits, encouraging them to reduce processed foods and sugary snacks.
- This behavioural shift may lead to longer-term improvements in diet quality.
Potential Risks and Drawbacks of Detox Diets
While detox diets might offer some short-term benefits, they often come with significant risks, particularly when followed for extended periods.
Nutrient Deficiencies
Restrictive detox diets can lead to inadequate intake of essential nutrients like:
- Protein: Necessary for muscle repair and immune function.
- Iron and Vitamin B12: Critical for energy production and blood health.
Source: British Dietetic Association (BDA)
Muscle Loss
- Inadequate protein intake during detox diets can lead to the breakdown of muscle tissue.
- This not only weakens the body but also slows metabolism, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight.
Source: The National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Digestive Issues
- Overconsumption of fibre-rich juices can cause bloating or diarrhoea, while lack of dietary diversity may lead to constipation.
Source: Harvard Health Publishing
Rebound Weight Gain and Yo-Yo Dieting
- The cycle of rapid weight loss followed by weight regain, known as yo-yo dieting, has been linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders.
Source: NHS
A Healthy Detox Alternative: Balanced Nutrition
Instead of extreme detox diets, focus on a balanced, whole-food diet that supports the body’s natural detoxification processes.
Key Components of a Balanced Diet
- Whole Foods: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support kidney function.
- Healthy Fats: Incorporate sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil.
Sample Meal Plan
Detox Diets and Women’s Health: Specific Considerations
Detox diets may have unique implications for women’s health, particularly for those with specific conditions.
Hormonal Health
- Detox diets may disrupt hormonal balance, especially for women with conditions like PCOS or endometriosis.
- Low-fat diets, common in detox plans, can interfere with the production of hormones like oestrogen. (National Institute of Child Health and Human Development)
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
- Detox diets are unsuitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as these periods require increased nutrient intake for the health of both mother and baby.
Conclusion
Detox diets may seem like a quick fix for health and weight loss, but their benefits are often outweighed by potential risks. The body is inherently equipped to detoxify itself when supported by a balanced diet, proper hydration, and a healthy lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
- Focus on long-term dietary changes rather than temporary detox regimens.
- Prioritise whole, unprocessed foods to support overall health.
- Consult a healthcare professional before starting any restrictive diet, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
References
- NHS. (n.d.). Live well: Eat well. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/
- British Dietetic Association. (n.d.). Detox Diets: Myths and Facts. Retrieved from https://www.bda.uk.com
- Harvard Health Publishing. (n.d.). Should you try a detox diet? Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu
- Tommy’s. (n.d.). Nutrition in Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://www.tommys.org
- NICE. (n.d.). Weight management. Retrieved from https://www.nice.org.uk
- Examine.com. (n.d.). Energy and Diets. Retrieved from https://examine.com
- Klein, A. V., & Kiat, H. (2015). Detox diets for toxin elimination and weight management: A critical review of the evidence. Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 28(6), 675–686. https://doi.org/10.1111/jhn.12286
When new medical studies are released, they can feel full of numbers and complex terms. At SheMed, our role is to help you understand what they really mean for you, your health, and your future.
Recently, Novo Nordisk released the results of the STEER study, one of the most significant pieces of research yet on GLP-1 medicines like Wegovy. And the findings show something powerful: Wegovy is not only about weight loss, it’s also about heart health.
The Big Picture: What the STEER Study Looked At
The STEER study explored how GLP-1 medicines affect heart health in people living with Overweight or Obesity and established cardiovascular disease (but without diabetes).
Researchers compared Wegovy (Semaglutide 2.4mg) with Tirzepatide (Mounjaro). They focused on the risk of serious heart problems, what doctors call “major adverse cardiovascular events” (MACE). These include:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Death from heart disease
What They Found
The results were striking:
- For people who stayed on treatment without big gaps, Wegovy reduced the risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death by 57% more than Mounjaro.
- When looking at all treated people, even those with breaks in care Wegovy still showed a 29% reduction in these serious events overall.
In short, Wegovy is not only helping people lose weight, it is also showing clear cardiovascular protection, especially when used consistently.
Why This Matters for You
We’ve always known GLP-1 medicines are powerful tools for weight loss, but the STEER study highlights something even bigger: they can also protect your heart. For anyone living with Obesity and cardiovascular disease, this is game-changing.
It also reinforces an important truth - long-term commitment matters most. The people who saw the greatest benefits were those who stayed consistent with their medication. That’s why at SheMed, we design every part of our programme to keep you supported, motivated, and engaged for the long run.
The SheMed Difference: Seeing the Bigger Picture
Medication is only one part of your health journey. At SheMed, we combine Wegovy with wraparound care:
- Regular blood tests to track key markers like cholesterol, blood sugar, and liver health.
- Weekly check-ins and app reminders to help you stay on track.
- Education and content designed specifically for women, covering sleep, hormones, activity, and nutrition.
- Proactive Side effect care and support to keep you comfortable and supported as your body adjusts.
This holistic approach matters because weight loss is just one marker of progress. By running blood tests before starting the programme, at 6 months, and 12 months, we can show you the deeper changes happening inside your body, improvements in cholesterol, blood sugar, and overall metabolic health.
It means you’ll see the true value of GLP-1s, not just in how you look or feel, but in the measurable ways your health is improving and your risks are reducing.
Why Wegovy Through SheMed Makes Sense
At SheMed, we’ve worked hard to make Wegovy accessible and affordable. With static, transparent pricing across doses, our members know exactly what they’re paying. That means no hidden surprises and no price hikes as you move up through titration.
When you combine that cost benefit with the evidence from STEER that Wegovy offers not just weight loss but cardiovascular protection the case for choosing Wegovy through SheMed becomes even stronger.
You’re not just investing in weight management; you’re investing in heart health, future health, and a programme designed to keep you safe and supported every step of the way.
The Future of Health With SheMed
The STEER study is a reminder that the story of GLP-1s is still unfolding and it’s about so much more than weight loss. These medicines are changing how we think about obesity, cardiovascular health, and long-term wellbeing.
At SheMed, we’ll continue to keep you informed as new research emerges, but more importantly, we’ll keep showing you the bigger picture through your own results. With every blood test, every milestone, and every step forward, you’ll see how far you’ve come not just in weight, but in health.
Because at SheMed, you’re not just losing weight. You’re gaining health, protecting your future, and building the strongest version of you.
Wegovy has quickly become a key treatment option in obesity management, particularly for adults living with excess weight and health conditions linked to obesity.
With recent price increases for Mounjaro®, another GLP-1 medication, many patients and healthcare providers are now turning to Wegovy as a strong alternative.
Clinical research shows that Wegovy can deliver significant weight loss results, often comparable to those seen with Mounjaro, making it one of the most effective options currently available.
Recent news and clinical trial data reveal that higher doses of Wegovy specifically at 7.2 mg weekly, have led to average weight loss of around 21% in adults with obesity, with approximately one-third of participants achieving a weight loss of 25% or more over 72 weeks. This is notably greater than the 15% average weight loss seen at the standard 2.4 mg dose.
Latest Clinical Data on Higher Doses
The 2025 STEP UP phase 3b trial evaluated semaglutide at both 7.2 mg and 2.4 mg weekly doses versus placebo in people with obesity who did not have diabetes. The results indicated a clear dose-response effect:
- Mean weight loss was 21% at 7.2 mg, compared to 17.5% at 2.4 mg, and much lower with placebo.
- Specifically, 51% of those on 7.2 mg lost at least 20% of their body weight, and 33% achieved a reduction of 25% or more.
- For 2.4 mg, 35% lost 20% or more, and 17% achieved 25% or greater weight loss.
Regulatory and Safety Considerations
- Novo Nordisk has announced plans to seek regulatory approval for the higher 7.2 mg dose in the EU and other regions in late 2025.
- Safety and tolerability of the 7.2 mg weekly dose were consistent with the known profile of semaglutide, with gastrointestinal side effects remaining most common, except for a low discontinuation rate for adverse effects (about 3%).
- These findings extend the potential of Wegovy for people requiring greater degrees of weight loss, emphasising the dose-dependent effect of semaglutide GLP-1 therapy.
Comparing New findings with Mounjaro
At higher doses (7.2 mg), Wegovy has demonstrated weight loss outcomes that closely mirror those achieved with Mounjaro. Clinical data show an average 21% reduction in body weight over 72 weeks with Wegovy, with around half of patients reaching at least 20% weight loss. By comparison, Mounjaro studies report average reductions of up to 22–23% at higher doses over a similar treatment duration. While Wegovy’s 7.2 mg dose remains under regulatory review and is not yet standard practice, these findings highlight that patients considering a switch may be able to achieve results that are highly comparable to those seen with Mounjaro, offering another strong option in pharmacological obesity management.
Head-to-head style snapshot (72-week outcomes)
In conclusion, if you are considering switching from Mounjaro to Wegovy, now is an excellent opportunity. Wegovy offers a highly effective alternative for weight management with similar clinical results, and - importantly - comes at a considerably lower price, especially as Mounjaro prices are set to rise sharply in the UK from September 2025. Choosing Wegovy can help maintain your weight loss goals while making your treatment more affordable.
If you have any questions or need personalised advice about making the switch, please do not hesitate to contact the Shemed support team at support@shemed.com.
References
- ClinicalTrials.gov. (2024, December 12). A research study to see how semaglutide helps people with excess weight, lose weight (STEP UP) (NCT05646706). U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05646706
- Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Lingvay, I., McGowan, B. M., Rosenstock, J., Tran, M. T., Wadden, T. A., Wharton, S., Yokote, K., Zeuthen, N., Kushner, R. F., & STEP 1 Study Group. (2021). Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine, 384(11), 989–1002. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
- Jastreboff, A. M., Aronne, L. J., Ahmad, N. N., Wharton, S., Connery, L., Alves, B., Kiyosue, A., Zhang, S., Liu, B., Bunck, M. C., & Wadden, T. A. (2022). Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine, 387(3), 205–216. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038
- American Diabetes Association (ADA). (2025, June). STEP UP trial: Semaglutide 7.2 mg in adults with obesity without type 2 diabetes [Conference presentation]. ADA 85th Scientific Sessions, Chicago, IL. Retrieved from https://diabetesjournals.org/ (poster abstract ePoster 446-P).
- Novo Nordisk. (2025, June 9). Semaglutide 7.2 mg shows ~21% weight loss at 72 weeks in STEP UP trial [Press release]. Retrieved from https://www.novonordisk.com/