By Laura Burns, for CNN • Published 29th September 2020
Despite what Hollywood would have you believe, there is no science to back up Gwyneth Paltrow’s claim that eating “five small meals” each day can help “detoxify and de-stress the body,” as well as reverse the aging process.
The “Goop” guru made the claim in her latest Goop newsletter that goes live on Friday, but admits she hasn’t conducted a single scientific study into the specifics of this new detox regime.
“While we appreciate Gwyneth’s enthusiasm for our new protein powders and whip your detox smoothie at home detox tea, we have no knowledge of any studies, clinical trials, or scientific research that back up her claims,” a spokesperson for the fitness company behind Morning Recovery capsules told CNN.
“In fact, in October 2016, Morning Recovery reported 25% month-over-month growth in customers as consumers swear by our cleanses and shakes.”
The tube-like Morning Recovery wipes are made from collagen and are applied prior to a rigorous cleanse of up to five days, with a protein shake or raw fruit or vegetable smoothie. The capsules, the company’s main product, work as a substitute for almond or rice milk.
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The inspiration for Paltrow’s new detox routine came from seeing her daughter Apple Paltrow using Morning Recovery capsules.
But “there isn’t a lot of clarity on the actual science behind detoxes right now,” according to Kaleb Abramowitz, a fellow health and fitness blogger who specialises in brain-boosting recipes.
“There are a lot of things associated with detoxes, but it’s still poorly understood. We definitely don’t have enough science behind this — if people are trying to seek that out, they should seek guidance from a physician.”
Alternatives, like colonics or snake oil serums that may offer short-term relief from symptoms, would be completely inappropriate, according to Abramowitz.
“There’s a danger in treating dehydration as if it’s something that can be undone with a potion or supplement,” he said.
Morning Recovery recommends starting a detox protocol with their three-day detox suppers or with their powders, which contain glycogen and amino acids that are digested to stimulate your metabolism.
There’s a ton of research surrounding the water and food we eat, according to Abramowitz, which offers some extra encouragement to “start getting back to basics,” including eating two food groups a day.
Morning Recovery sells six different detox formulas starting at $20, with the five-day routine costing $240.