A report from Racked looked into how tea detoxes such as Skinny Mint and Lyfe Tea exploded on Instagram mainly through the endorsements of social media darlings such as Nicki Minaj and Kylie Jenner.
These detoxes are primarily just laxatives and celebrities, some of whom are only "Instagram personalities" are paid massive sums from $3,000 to $250,000 to endorse a certain tea detox.
One main ingredient of tea detoxes is senna, which is normally used as a laxative. Although it is not a dangerous substance, it is not meant to be consumed every day, according to the report.
The amount paid to a celebrity depends on the size of his or her social media followers. Regardless of who endorses what product, it is now certain that Instagram is an effective venue for establishing start-up businesses.
There is a revolution going on in the entire fitness industry largely due to the influence of people sharing images of their wellness habits. The tea detox industry is quick in taking advantage of this setup and uses social media to do its marketing work.
Although Instagram users may be hooked into the tea detoxes of their favorite celebrity, most are not aware of their side effects.
Christine Gerbstadt, MD, RD, CSSD, CDE, and an American Dietetic Association spokeswoman warns dieters of using any detox substance that causes massive fluid loss.
Such detox products will upset the body's delicate fluid and electrolyte balance which can result in headaches, irritability, stomach distress and potential dehydration.
Detox tea suppliers claim that their products contain different herbs that can enhance the body's ability to eliminate toxins. But combining different herbs have different effects to different people therefore it is always wise to investigate before consuming these substances regularly or in unregulated quantities.
In addition, most of the photos of the 'teatox' community look like they are coated with the same inspirational visuals that the popular workout routine 21-Day Fix program is sharing.
However, tea detoxes are not like fitness routines since they often have adverse side effects.
