Detox theory under the medical scanner!!!

The detox diet and products had captured the market and minds of various people world over. But now it is under medical scrutiny.

A number of detox products are to be investigated by the British government. This follows a report by the BBC which drew its attention to some of their medical claims.

The Medical Health Care Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is taking action based on investigations by Real Story's Doctors on a Detox programme. Some detox products claim to enhance the immune system, relieve pain, flush out toxins and stimulate circulation. But they are not medically examined and given the green signal.

It is a criminal offence under the Medicines (Advertising) Regulation Act 1994 to issue an advertisement relating to a relevant medicinal product without a licence. "Licenses will only be granted after the safety and efficacy of products have been shown in clinical trials. Any product making a medical claim has to prove that quality standard. The consumer has to be able to trust what they buy," said a MHRA spokesperson.

Some of the questioned products are as follows:- Nutritionist and TV presenter Gillian McKeith's 24 hour Detox claims to "cleanse and normalise your body's vital organs, including liver, bowels, gall bladder, spleen and abdominal intestine system". SlimLife Detox Foot Patches claim to flush out harmful toxins and boost the immune system. Shapechangers Detox Wrap Deluxe Home Kit claimed their clay wraps could soothe psoriasis and eczema. So the detox plan needs proper medical verification.