Here’s What Happened When I Drank Detox Water for a Week

Photo by Jess Cartwright

It seems as if every 10 seconds there is a new weight loss trend that you must try. Detox water, one of the latest trends, is water infused with fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Detox water is meant to help jumpstart your metabolism, aid your immune system and even help regulate bodily functions such as blood pressure.

But is detox water actually beneficial? Cardiothoracic surgeon and TV personality Dr. Oz is a fan of detox waters and even has his own special holiday detox water he shared on his television show.

Ingredients that go into the water serve as catalysts for toxin removal. Detox water causes kidneys to jump into gear removing toxins – that’s why you are you are running off to the bathroom frequently. Drinking so much water is also a great way to lose weight because water fills you up so you don’t overeat.

“I seriously must have gone to the bathroom like 25 times,” says sophomore Sarah Pettoruto after spending the day sipping lemon and cucumber infused water. “Even though constantly running off to pee was a hassle, I felt amazing for days after, I had more energy and I felt lighter.”

Infused water is also great for those who don’t drink enough water because of lack of flavor. There are recipes containing every kind of fruit imaginable and you can even customize your own water to fit your taste.

“I never drink enough water, it’s always been a problem of mine,” says senior Claire Levy. “Every time I know I’ve gone too long without water I drop a few sliced strawberries and some lemon slices in to give it the taste I need to incentivize myself to drink it.”

This past week, I decided to put detox water to the test to see if I noticed any changes in my body.

I alternated between lemon-cucumber and strawberry-blueberry-raspberry water. The fruity mix was perfect because blueberries and raspberries are full of immune-boosting nutrients and I felt a cold coming on. The lemon-cucumber was a great way to flush my body after a long THON weekend of not eating healthily and not getting enough water.

At the end of my seven day experience, I felt more energized, fought off a cold and I even lost three pounds.

The best place to search for a detox water that fits your needs is Pinterest, which is full of great recipes including one of Valley‘s favorites: ‘Flat Tummy Water.’

Here is what you need:

1 TBSP. of Grated Ginger

2 Lemon wedges

1 Cucumber, sliced

12 Mint Leaves

1 Pitcher of Cold Water

 Have a detox water recipe you love? Tweet @valleymag with the ingredients and make sure to tell us why you love detox water. Drink up!