Thanks to the rise of TikTok and influencer culture, health trends and wellness fads are at an all time high. From promises of miraculous cleanses to new products that influencers just ‘can’t live without’, social media often has us wading through seas of information. But how do we discern fact from fiction?

Detox drinks are something we see crop up again and again on the wellness scene. Their popularity raises important questions about their efficiency and the science behind the suggested benefits.

In our honest guide to detox drinks, we delve into this trend, unravelling the truths, dispelling the myths, and offering a balanced perspective on the role detox drinks play in a healthier lifestyle. 

What are Detox Drinks?

Detox drinks have gained popularity in recent years as a way to help people cleanse their bodies and promote overall well-being. These drinks typically include a combination of natural ingredients known for detoxifying properties. Ingredients like lemon, cucumber, mint, and ginger are commonly found in detox drinks, believed to help flush out toxins, boost metabolism, and support the body's natural detoxification processes.

Are Detox Drinks Good?

The effectiveness of detox drinks is a subject of debate within the health and wellness community. Some argue that the drinks containing natural ingredients like fruits, vegetables, and herbs can support the body's natural detoxification processes, while others emphasise the liver and kidneys’ inherent ability to eliminate toxins without the need for specialised drinks. 

What’s more, detox drinks are often linked to short-term use, potentially limiting their advantages, as they do not contribute to a sustained, well-balanced diet. Though they can provide hydration and essential nutrients, they’re not a magical solution and should be complemented with a healthy lifestyle, including a well-rounded diet and regular physical activity, for sustained well-being. 

The Best Detox Drinks

Though the effects of detox drinks are debated, there’s no doubt that natural water with herbs, fruits and vegetables can positively impact health. For a drink that will leave you feeling nourished, hydrated and cleansed, these are the drinks you should look out for:

Green Tea - Green tea is considered to be one of the most effective detox drinks due to its high antioxidant content. Packed with polyphenols, studies show it can support the body's natural cleansing processes. 

Lemon and Cucumber Infused Water - A classic and widely embraced detox drink, the combination of lemon and cucumber tastes so refreshing. Lemons contribute vitamin C and citric acid, believed to aid digestion and promote detoxification. Cucumbers add hydration and a subtle flavour, making this blend a go-to choice for those seeking a simple yet effective detox drink.

Ginger Turmeric Tonic - Ginger and turmeric, both renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties, come together in this detox drink with a kick. Known to support digestion and alleviate inflammation, this tonic is often combined with a hint of honey for sweetness. The warming and soothing qualities of ginger and turmeric make this drink a popular choice for those aiming to revitalise their body.

Detox Water with Berries - Infusing water with berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries introduces a burst of antioxidants. Berries are rich in vitamins and fibre, contributing to the body's overall well-being. This detox water not only provides hydration but also a delicious flavour that makes it a tasty and healthful choice. You can also add the fruit to naturally flavoured sparkling water for a daily pick-me-up. 

Minty Herbal Water - Mint, known for its digestive properties, is the key ingredient in this herbal detox drink. Combined with parsley or cilantro, this concoction aims to support the body's natural detoxification pathways. Simply add herbs to a pitcher of water with ginger and lemon and allow to infuse for two to four hours. 

Detox Drinks to Avoid

While many detox drinks offer potential benefits, it's important to be wary of fad drinks that may not live up to its marketing claims. Here are some detox drinks to approach with caution or avoid:

Extreme Fasting Teas - Some detox teas or drinks promote extreme fasting practices, encouraging people to replace meals with the beverage for extended periods. These drastic measures may lead to nutritional deficiencies and negatively impact overall health. It's crucial to prioritise balanced nutrition over extreme fasting for sustainable well-being.

Artificially Sweetened Detox Drinks - Detox drinks containing artificial sweeteners may seem like a healthier alternative, but these additives can have adverse effects on metabolism and gut health. Minimising sugars and artificial sweeteners altogether is a much healthier option. 

Overly Laxative Teas- Some detox drinks rely heavily on laxative herbs or ingredients, promising rapid elimination of toxins. Prolonged use of such drinks can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and a dependence on laxatives. It's crucial to prioritise a balanced approach to detoxification rather than relying solely on laxative-infused drinks. 

Detox Drinks with Unverified Claims - Be cautious of detox drinks making big claims without scientific backing. Claims of rapid weight loss, complete toxin elimination, or instant health transformations should be met with scepticism. Instead, it’s best to choose detox drinks with transparent ingredient lists and realistic promises.

Highly Caffeinated Detox Drinks - While moderate caffeine intake can have benefits, detox drinks excessively laden with caffeine may lead to jitteriness, increased heart rate, and disrupt sleep patterns. It's important to be mindful of the overall caffeine content in detox blends, especially for individuals sensitive to caffeine.

How to Spot a Good Detox Drink 

When choosing a detox drink, it’s important to differentiate between the beneficial and the dubious. The best detox drinks should contain natural ingredients such as herbs such as herbs, fruits, and vegetables known for their detoxifying properties. Look for transparency in ingredient lists, avoiding drinks laden with artificial additives or excessive sweeteners. 

Remember, detox drinks shouldn’t be something you have during a short period of time to flush your body, it should be a healthy drink that’s hydrating and nutritious, just like wellness drinks. It’s also so important that these drinks are consumed alongside a balanced diet, never replacing meals.

For a hydrating and tasty drink that’s free from sugar, sweeteners and calories, shop DASH Water. Our lemon sparkling water and cucumber sparkling water acts as a delicious base to add detoxing herbs and fruits.