Cayenne Pepper Detox Drinks – Benefits for Weight Loss + Side Effects

A cayenne pepper detox plan is purported to help your body naturally eliminate unwanted toxins by supporting digestive function and increasing blood flow.

It may also work by irritating the colon, increasing the frequency of bowel movements. By helping the body to better eliminate toxins, cayenne extract is claimed to support overall health and well-being.

Some health professionals recommend this detox program as part of a 10-day fast to support the elimination of heavy metal and other toxins that accumulate in the body. By avoiding solid foods for the duration of the cleanse, this is supposed to help the body “catch up” and “reset”.

There is on-going debate about the efficacy of detoxification diets and whether they are necessary. Not all health professionals believe that it is beneficial or necessary to follow detox regimens.

Capsaicin extract from cayenne pepper is associated with several health benefits. User reviews suggest that taking this supplement improves their energy levels, skin clarity, appetite control as well as helps to reduce bloating and inflammation.

However, there is no research available to evaluate the effects of cayenne pepper for detoxification. Cleanses may not be appropriate for everyone to follow and could cause negative effects if not conducted properly.

Capsaicin

Pepper Extract

Joints

Appetite Control

Vitality

How It Works:

• Supports healthy digestion & blood flow
• Promotes joint function & pain relief
• Promotes appetite control & weight loss

Dosage:

Between 1000 - 2000 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

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Cayenne Pepper Detox Review

Cayenne pepper powder is usually used in combination with lemon, Grade B maple syrup and purified water to prepare detox beverages.

Some of the purported benefits of detoxing with cayenne pepper and lemon juice include boosting metabolism, protecting cells against free radicals, losing weight and cleansing the colon and intestines.

The detox period typically consists of 3 – 12 days during which only liquids are consumed. This is said to allow your digestive system and detoxification pathways to rest and catch up.

According to Dr. Frank Lipman, there is a lot of confusion in the health community about what detoxification really is. Many doctors and researchers believe that participating in detox programs is unnecessary because the body already performs these functions naturally.

However, Dr. Lipman states that cleanses are intended to make the body’s natural detoxification systems work more efficiently and effectively.

Stimulating detoxification through diet programs or use of supplements takes some of the strain off our natural systems and supports homeostasis.

Dr. Lipman also says we can take measures to limit the amount of toxins we expose ourselves to. This means choosing nutritious foods, limiting use of drugs and alcohol, avoiding environmental pollutants, maintaining hydration and practicing other healthy lifestyle habits.

While the liver is the primary organ responsible for detoxification, the lymphatic system, kidneys, skin and lungs also contribute. Following a detox plan with or without cayenne pepper ensures these systems are able to perform optimally.

According to Dr. Lipman, the main purpose of any detox plan should be to provide support to elimination organs.

This will help to reduce accumulated toxins in body tissues via metabolization or excretion.

Lemon and Cayenne Detox Recipe

Many people prepare lemon and cayenne pepper detox drinks as part of their cleanse program. You can also promote detoxification pathways by incorporating chili powder into your diet or by taking an oral supplement.

A lemon and cayenne pepper beverage is typically prepared with water and maple syrup to suit individual taste preferences. Other sweeteners can be used as well, including stevia root, honey or agave nectar.

You can use the following recipe as a guide. Alter the proportions or ingredients as you like:

• 2 tablespoons of organic Grade-B maple syrup;
• 0.5 teaspoon of organic cayenne pepper powder;
• Juice of 1 organic lemon;
• 8 ounces purified water;

As per the Master Cleanse diet plan (aka the “Lemonade Diet”), users may drink as many of these detox beverages as they care to each day. You may also drink as much purified water in addition, but it is recommended to abstain from foods and other drinks.

Some people will use a mineral supplement or multivitamin while on this cleanse to avoid nutrient depletion or low electrolyte levels. If you develop headaches or fatigues while on the detox diet, adding a mineral-rich source of salt can help.

Cayenne Pepper Detox Diet for Weight Loss

The Master Cleanse is a popular detox diet plan that uses lemon/cayenne/maple drinks as the only source of calories.

This program is designed to restore optimal digestive function, increase energy and mental clarity, reduce allergy symptoms, clear the skin and to promote short-term weight loss results.

The diet plan was popularized in 2004 by Peter Glickman in the book “Lose Weight, Have More Energy, and Be Happier in 10 Days.”

In 2007, it was reported that Beyonce followed this regimen to help her get in shape before her role in the “Dreamgirls” movie. Since that time, many online sources have recommended the diet for body fat reduction and as a colon cleanse.

A 10-day plan is the common recommendation, but many people engage 5-day and 3-day cleanses as well. There is no research available to determine the optimal length of cleanse.

It is difficult for some people to complete a 5 or 10-day detox plan due to work requirements or simply not being able to stick to the plan. Many people report feelings or boredom and hunger than make them discontinue their detox plans.

Some sources suggest that following a cayenne pepper detox for less than 10 days is still beneficial and can promote heath goals. Users are often advised to begin with a shorter cleanse to determine tolerance and avoid adverse reactions.

Health Benefits of Cayenne

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM) states that cayenne and other chili peppers have been used in cooking and medicine for more than nine thousand years.

Cayenne extract contains capsaicin which has been well-researched and has many documented positive effects on health. According to UMM, cayenne has been shown to:

• Support healthy blood clotting and anti-platelet effects;
• May influence cardiometabolic risk factors for heart disease;
• Lowers LDL cholesterol and improves blood lipid regulation;
• Stimulates circulation throughout the body;
• Improves digestion and eases gastrointestinal complaints;
• Reduces stomach acidity;
• Alleviates pain sensation;

In natural medicine practices, red cayenne also is used for toothache, headache, malaria, fever, seasickness and difficulty swallowing. Cayenne has also been studied for fibromyalgia, RA (rheumatoid arthritis), osteoarthritis, migraine headaches, shingles and diabetic neuropathy. [2]

Cayenne peppers have not been approved by the FDA as a drug for the prevention or treatment of any medical conditions. Capsaicin found in cayenne pepper powder is FDA-approved as a topical treatment for relieving certain forms of pain.

Health Benefits of Lemon Juice

Many people use lemon juice with cayenne powder as part of their detoxification program. Lemon is a rich source of bioflavonoids that exert antioxidant effects.

Lemon juice may also have a positive effect on blood sugar regulation, appetite control and it acts as a diuretic. It is also considered to be an alkalinizing agent.

The following health benefits of lemon are described by Dr. Josh Axe:

1. Stimulates white blood cell (leukocyte) production to support immunity;
2. Supports the transportation of food through digestive tract smoothly;
3. Protects cells from damage caused by oxidative stress;
4. Increases intestinal absorption of nutrients;
5. Stimulates toxin release and excretion;
6. Boosts dietary intake of vitamin C;
7. Increases bile production;
8. Supports energy metabolism;

Drinking lemon water is also purported to rejuvenate the skin, improve wound healing, help with weight loss, improvs hydration, and enhance mood. [1]

Cayenne Pepper Detox Side Effects

Using a cayenne pepper detox diet may not be appropriate for everyone. This low-calorie diet program should only be followed after first consulting with a doctor.

Some healthcare professionals have raised concerns about the practice of fasting potentially leading to nutrient depletion or low electrolyte levels. If this is a concern for you, using a multivitamin supplement and adding salt to your diet may help.

It may be possible to support detoxification and the digestive system by adding a cayenne extract supplement to your diet without following a cleanse program. However, the full benefits may not be realized unless also abstaining from solid meals and avoiding unhealthy foods.

Cayenne pepper may cause certain side effects in people with sensitive stomachs or with a low tolerance to spice. Taken orally, this supplement may cause stomach irritation, runny nose, tearing, flushing and sweating.

Capsaicin in cayenne extract has been shown to exhibit anti-platelet effects, meaning that it may interfere with blood clotting. It may increase the risk of bleeding if you are undergoing surgery of using other anti-coagulant drugs.

Talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and safety of a cayenne pepper detox plan. Be sure to discuss your health history and any medications you take. Cayenne may interact with certain health conditions, herbal supplements and prescription medications.

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