About the Lemonade Cleanse

by Contributing Writer

Overview

The lemonade cleanse is more commonly referred to by its official name, which is the master cleanse. The lemonade cleanse is pretty much what it sounds like. Over the course of the cleanse, which can last as long as you choose, your primary, and sometimes only, source of nutrition is lemonade.
What You Can Have

Your primary consumption is lemonade made with fresh-squeezed lemon juice, purified water, maple syrup and cayenne pepper. Every morning you drink a salt-water flush, and every night you drink a laxative tea. You are also allowed purified water, and a peppermint tea, though these are not requirements of the cleanse.

What Does It Do?

The purpose behind the cleanse is to give the digestive tract a resting period, and to flush the body of impurities. There is some debate over whether it actually achieves this goal. Weight loss is a natural byproduct of consuming so few calories, and is often confused as being the primary reason behind the cleanse.
Medical Concerns

It is advised that you consult your physician before you undergo the cleanse. The cleanse represents a massive alteration to your digestive habits, and can have serious effects on the body. Your physician can guide you through the cleanse, if you are intent on doing it. Many physicians, however, advise against the cleanse.
Not A Diet

The lemonade cleanse is often characterized as a diet. This is not the case. It is meant to be a body cleanse, and weight loss is a side-effect. Participants in the cleanse consume far less than the daily calories required to function properly. There is a severe lack of nutrition, and extended exposure to the cleanse is extremely ill advised. If you are looking to lose weight, nothing compares to eating healthy and exercising.
Side Effects

Acclimating to any new program can be tough, but it is especially tough for those undergoing the lemonade cleanse. The cleanse is often a deep shock to the system, as your body copes with the sudden loss of calories and nutrition. Other side-effects include detox effects, such as headaches, nausea and vomiting, cravings, fatigue and irritability.

References & Resources