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| - Last Updated on December 12, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that safed petha or ash gourd juice is the ultimate detox drink. We did a thorough fact check and termed this claim as false.
The Claim
According to an Instagram post, “Safed petha, or ash gourd juice, is the best detoxifier for the body!” This Instagram post suggests drinking ash gourd juice on an empty stomach in the morning for detoxification. The video implies that it is the greatest and most powerful detox juice to exist, supported by studies.”
Fact Check
Can ash gourd juice really “cleanse” your body?
Not really. The idea that a juice can “cleanse” your body is a myth. Your liver, kidneys, and digestive system already do the hard work of removing toxins naturally. They are constantly at work, and no juice can speed up or replace this process.
Ash gourds have diuretic properties, meaning they help increase urine production, which aids in flushing out toxins and maintaining proper hydration. The juice also promotes the excretion of excess salt, helping to regulate blood pressure.
While ash gourd juice is healthy and packed with nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and water, it doesn’t have the special ability to detoxify your body. It’s a great drink for staying hydrated, but it won’t cleanse your system the way some people think.
We reached out to Dr Sharad Malhotra, Senior Consultant & HOD Gastroenterology Hepatology & Therapeutic Endoscopy, Aakash Healthcare, New Delhi, for his expert views on ash gourd for body detox. He says, “While ash gourd juice is packed with nutrients and helps keep the body hydrated, the idea that it can ‘cleanse’ the body is a misconception. Our liver and kidneys are the body’s natural detoxifiers, working tirelessly to filter out toxins. The best way to support this process is through a balanced diet, proper hydration, and an overall healthy lifestyle. No single juice can replace the essential work these organs already do.”
We have also come across claims like copper-infused water can detox the body, which is false.
Is there any harm in drinking ash gourd juice every day?
Ash gourd juice is generally safe in moderation for most people. It’s low in calories, hydrating, and rich in nutrients. However, it can sometimes have a bitter taste, depending on the variety. It’s important to use fresh, clean ash gourd when preparing the juice to avoid any potential contamination or foodborne illness.
Dr Swati Dave, PhD in Food and Nutrition, says, “Just like bottle gourd, it is rich in water and fibre and contains all the water-soluble vitamins and minerals. However, some varieties can be bitter in taste. So, if considering juicing it, it’s best to taste it first. Vegetables from the gourd family are great for gut health, but it’s a good idea to try a small portion before juicing or cooking them into a curry.”
Why are people so eager to drink detox juices?
The idea of detoxing through special drinks is hugely popular because it promises quick, easy results. Words like “cleanse” and “detox” are often used in marketing to make products sound like they can rid the body of toxins. But here’s the truth: your body is already equipped to handle detoxification. While some foods can support the body’s functions, if you are healthy and live a balanced lifestyle, your kidneys and liver do their job well.
Detox drinks may sound appealing, but they often don’t live up to the hype. The best way to support your body’s detox system is by maintaining a balanced diet, drinking enough water, and leading a healthy lifestyle.
What does ash gourd juice really do for your health?
While ash gourd juice doesn’t “detoxify” your body, it does offer several health benefits. It’s hydrating, low in calories, and packed with important nutrients. Including it in the diet supports overall health, but it does not cleanse the system. Instead, focus on a balanced diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, and water to naturally support your body’s detox processes.
A 2012 animal study found that ash gourd extract helped treat hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid) in rats. It’s also water-rich and low in calories, making it a great option for those trying to lose weight. The fruit is high in soluble fibre, which slows digestion and helps you feel fuller for longer.
Some studies also suggest that ash gourds may help prevent ulcers due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It may also support the management of type 2 diabetes and blood lipid levels, although we need more research in humans. Additionally, ash gourds have antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Ash gourd is also useful in managing conditions like the common cold, cough, fever, sinusitis, bronchitis, and influenza. It helps improve lung function and ease allergies. Thanks to its natural expectorant properties, it helps clear mucus from the lungs and nasal passages.
In addition to ash gourd or safed petha, lauki is also popularly considered for liver detox. However, it’s important to understand the safety of lauki juice when used for liver detoxification.
THIP Media Take
The claim that safed petha or ash gourd juice is the ultimate detox drink is false. While it’s a healthy drink that can be part of a balanced diet, it doesn’t have any special detox powers. Your body’s natural detox systems are more than capable of doing the job. So, rather than focusing on trendy detox drinks, aim for a balanced lifestyle to support your health.
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