New Delhi: Detox drinks, seed water and morning wellness shots have become extremely popular on social media, but it is important to separate genuine nutritional
benefits from clever marketing. The first thing to understand is that our body already has highly efficient organs, particularly the liver and kidneys, that continuously process and eliminate waste. We do not need a special drink to “flush out” toxins. In a communication with News9 Digital on the occasion of National Nutrition Week (from September 1-7), Dr Shalini Garwin Bliss, Head-Dietetics, PSRI Hospital, New Delhi, explains what these viral wellness trends can and cannot do, along with the importance of hydration, balanced nutrition and healthy dietary habits. Read further what she says.
Truth about detox drinks
Trends are not completely useless. Some can be a simple way of adding nutritious foods to the diet. For instance, chia or basil seeds provide fibre, and when consumed with adequate water, they can contribute to overall digestive health. However, seed water is not a magic solution for weight loss, belly fat or detoxification. The benefits come from the nutrients in the seeds as part of an overall balanced diet, not from soaking them in water itself.
Lemon, ginger and turmeric trends
Similarly, lemon water can be refreshing and can help some people drink more fluids, but there is nothing inherently detoxifying about adding lemon to water. Ginger or turmeric shots may provide compounds with potential health benefits, but taking a concentrated shot does not make them more powerful than consuming these ingredients as part of regular meals.
When wellness trends go too far
The bigger concern is when people start replacing proper meals with these drinks or believe that a morning shot can compensate for an otherwise poor diet. Some commercially prepared wellness drinks can also contain added sugar, which defeats the purpose of consuming them as a “health” product.
The best approach is to look at these trends as additions, not shortcuts. Hydration, adequate protein, fibre, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and a varied diet will have far more impact on long-term health than any single morning ritual. If a trend encourages healthier food choices, it can be useful; if it promises rapid detoxification, weight loss or miraculous health benefits, it deserves a healthy dose of scepticism.
