Do We Really Need To Diet?
Shape Malaysia|October 2016

Is detoxing a necessary health move or just clever marketing? Carmen Chow goes to the experts for the facts.

Carmen Chow
Do We Really Need To Diet?

To answer the question, we need to get back to basics and understand what it means to detox. “Detoxing is actually a form of medical therapy to treat patients who have been poisoned either with heavy metals, dangerous chemicals, drugs or alcohol. So it is only necessary when our body has been invaded by toxins that could lead to detrimental effects and potentially death,” reveals Lydia Phua, nutritionist at Health works Mont Kiara. Whether it’s a drink, pill or diet, detoxing may seem like the perfect solution to our overindulgent, stressful lifestyles and tightening pants, but unfortunately that is not the case. Says Verona Lee, dietitian at Sunway Medical Centre: “Our body is well equipped with its own built-in mechanisms to detoxify and remove toxins. There is insufficient scientific evidence to support the claim that detox diets or cleanses remove more toxins than a properly functioning body would (on its own).” The ultimate lifestyle ‘detox’? Not smoking, exercising and eating a healthy, balanced diet. Here, they reveal the truth about common conceptions.

1. Drinking a lot of water detoxifies the body.

Fact: Water is a fundamental element in our body’s natural detoxification process. Our liver and kidneys pick up toxins and waste from the bloodstream, and convert them into water-soluble substances that can be excreted in urine. Hence, hydration is important. However, drinking excessive amounts of water can be as dangerous as not drinking enough, especially if you have heart, kidney or liver disease, as huge amounts of water may upset the balance of electrolytes (such as sodium).

2. Detoxes are the quickest way to lose weight.

This story is from the October 2016 edition of Shape Malaysia.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the October 2016 edition of Shape Malaysia.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM SHAPE MALAYSIAView All
Break It Down: Breast Health
Shape Malaysia

Break It Down: Breast Health

With so many confusing and alarming reports about breast cancer, it’s tough to figure out what your risk really is. We asked top experts to help explain the latest facts behind the headlines—and discovered some very reassuring news.

time-read
3 mins  |
March - April 2019
5 Best Natural Extracts For Your Hair
Shape Malaysia

5 Best Natural Extracts For Your Hair

Lately the ingredient list on your shampoo reads like your smoothie order. And that’s a good thing. Coconut, aloe, and other natural extracts are packed with exactly what your hair needs. Here, we break down what each can do for you.

time-read
3 mins  |
July - August 2019
Skin And Hair Detox
Shape Malaysia

Skin And Hair Detox

It’s the season of fresh starts, and your skin, hair, and makeup routines are primed for change. We have your action plan.

time-read
3 mins  |
July - August 2019
Super Nutrients For Sexual Health
Shape Malaysia

Super Nutrients For Sexual Health

These power ingredients ease PMS, boost sex drive, and keep your system strong.

time-read
1 min  |
July - August 2019
Yes, Diet Affects Your Sexual Health
Shape Malaysia

Yes, Diet Affects Your Sexual Health

Going vegetarian can lead to some surprising changes.

time-read
1 min  |
July 2018
8 Tips To Absorb More Nutrients From Your Food
Shape Malaysia

8 Tips To Absorb More Nutrients From Your Food

All those greens you’re nomming? You might be missing the benefits if you’re making these mistakes.

time-read
4 mins  |
May - June 2019
What You Need Know About Intermittent Fasting
Shape Malaysia

What You Need Know About Intermittent Fasting

You’ve probably heard a lot about this dieting and weight-loss technique, but what is it exactly? Is it safe? And does it mean you can’t eat?

time-read
4 mins  |
May - June 2019
Simple Tips To Wake Up Energised
Shape Malaysia

Simple Tips To Wake Up Energised

Skip the coffee and quit the snooze. Try these simple tweaks to your daily routine and you’ll be all revved up to go in the morning.

time-read
4 mins  |
October 2016
Do We Really Need To Diet?
Shape Malaysia

Do We Really Need To Diet?

Is detoxing a necessary health move or just clever marketing? Carmen Chow goes to the experts for the facts.

time-read
5 mins  |
October 2016
26 Ways To Lose Inches Faster
Shape Malaysia

26 Ways To Lose Inches Faster

Wouldn’t it be nice to have your health taken care of for you? A chef to cook nutritious, gourmet dinners; an assistant to schedule regular massage and doctor’s appointments; a little voice in your head reminding you to skip the chocolate and have the broccoli instead; and a sharp elbow pushing you to get off the comfy couch and head out for a 10 km run? Okay, maybe our health is something we’re better off taking care of ourselves. And lucky for us, there’s more than one way to do it. In fact, we’ve got 26, one for each letter of the alphabet. Try one or try them all, what matters is that you make the move.

time-read
10+ mins  |
October 2016