Ornella Ikirezi, a 27-year-old entrepreneur in Kigali, began incorporating ginger shots into her daily routine in 2023, following a trend she noticed on social media. Initially, she believed that these detox shots, which consisted of high concentrations of ginger juice, lemon juice, and honey, would help boost her health.

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However, what seemed like a healthy habit quickly turned into a troubling health issue.

"I started taking detox shots every morning on an empty stomach, believing they would boost my health, helping me lose weight, cleanse my body, and more. But over time, I developed severe stomach issues, which eventually led to ulcers and dehydration,” Ikirezi said.

"Later, I had to consult experts, who explained that I was using detox shots incorrectly. I was taking them without enough water or a proper diet while introducing a lot of acid into my stomach. Once I learned how to take them properly, I adjusted my routine, and the results were far better than when I had relied solely on water.”

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This shift in approach not only helped alleviate her stomach issues but also highlighted the importance of moderation and balance when following health trends, she said.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) doesn&039;t promote "detox drinks" as a method for cleansing the body, as there's little scientific evidence to support these claims. While "detox drinks" are marketed for removing toxins, the UN health agency does not endorse them as a way to cleanse the body, as the human body has its own efficient detoxification system through the liver and kidneys.

Experts warn that detox drinks, which have become a major trend on social media with countless videos showcasing ginger shots, turmeric blends, and green juices claiming to flush out toxins and promote weight loss, may not always deliver.

Detoxing is a process of removing toxins from the body. It includes short term dietary intervention designed to eliminate toxins from the body. In some cases, improper consumption of detox drinks can lead to health risks such as dehydration, ulcers, and other digestive issues.

According to nutrition consultant Martine Gashumba, many detox drinks contain strong ingredients that can be harsh on the stomach, especially when consumed without professional guidance, and can lead to serious health risks.

"One of the most common misconceptions about detox drinks is their ability to aid in weight loss. However, detoxification is a process naturally carried out by the liver and kidneys. Weight loss is not about drinking detox juices, it’s about reducing calorie intake and maintaining a balanced diet,” said Gashumba.

"Many people believe they are losing weight because they feel lighter, but in most cases, they are simply dehydrated. People should approach detox drinks with caution and understanding that true weight loss requires a holistic approach to diet and lifestyle, rather than relying on trends or quick fixes.”

Gashumba also warned that not everyone should consume detox drinks.

"People under 30 years of age, those who are underweight, or individuals with sensitive stomachs, should be particularly cautious. The ingredients used in detox drinks are not suitable for everyone, and taking them without professional advice can do more harm than good."

Rather than relying on extreme detox drinks, Gashumba suggests a safer and more effective approach to detoxing.

"A better practice is to take your total body weight, divide it by 30, and what you get is the number of litres of water you should drink every day to help your body detox naturally. For those looking for a healthier alternative, smoothies made from a combination of three vegetables, one fruit, and mild detoxifying ingredients like ginger or lemon can also work,” she said.

"Unlike juice only detoxes, smoothies retain fibre, which is essential for digestion and overall health.”

"In the long run, these shots can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your stomach, which may increase the risk of digestive issues, including stomach ulcers or cancer. Rather than relying on detox trends, I suggest maintaining a well-balanced diet, staying hydrated, and seeking professional advice before adopting any drastic dietary changes,” said Gashumba.

Private Kamanzi, a nutritionist, explained the risks and benefits of detox drinks, emphasizing the importance of balanced consumption.

"Detox drinks can be beneficial if used correctly. The problem arises when people think they can replace proper meals with these drinks. Your body needs a balanced diet, and detox drinks alone cannot provide that,” he said.

"Some people carry detox drinks everywhere, sipping them all day without considering the high acid content. Over time, this can damage the stomach lining and cause digestive issues.”

Using detox drinks as a weight-loss method is untenable and can cause unhealthy weight gain in the long run, he warned.

"Many people assume that rapid weight loss from detox drinks is healthy, but it’s not. When your body lacks essential nutrients like sugars and proteins, you might experience extreme cravings and end up gaining more weight than before. Instead of relying on detox drinks as a shortcut, focus on a long-term healthy lifestyle. A well-balanced diet, hydration, and exercise, are more effective and sustainable ways to maintain good health.”