"The Master Cleanse made from fresh lemons, water, maple syrup and cayenne pepper is said to detoxify the body and cause weight loss. Of course, you will lose weight just drinking this horrible liquid diet; however, you will gain it back when you return to eating solid food. And after having been on the diet, you need to return to solids slowly to acclimate your body.

In the Master Cleanse you have not learned anything about calories, nutrition and portion control. And there is no scientific evidence that you need to cleanse your organs! The body is beautifully engineered to detoxify itself like the function of the liver and the kidneys."

--Debbie Mandel, M.A.
Fitness and Stress Management Expert
Author of Addicted to Stress (Wiley, Sept. 2008)

"While the Master Cleanse promises quick weight loss, it is one of the unhealthiest diets to follow. The weight loss is not fat loss but rather loss of bowel contents, water and muscle because the person consumes nothing but water, cayenne pepper, lemon, and maple syrup for 7-10 days.

As a result the body cannibalizes on its own muscle for protein needs and the end result is an even slower metabolism. Worst of all: the weight creeps back up within 2-3 days since normal eating habits are resumed."

--Ariane Hundt, New York City-based Nutritionist and Personal Trainer
Founder of Brooklyn Bridge Boot Camp.