Why Detox Diets Don’t Work for PCOS

What are detox diets?

January often brings a wave of “detox” plans that promise a reset after the festive season. These diets usually involve cutting out major food groups, drinking juices or smoothies in place of meals, or following stupidly strict rules for a short period of time. They’re often marketed as a way to “cleanse” the body, balance hormones or kickstart weight loss.

For someone living with PCOS, these messages can feel especially tempting. When symptoms feel unpredictable or you’ve tried countless plans without lasting change, the idea of a quick fix can feel hopeful.

But while detox diets are persuasive, the evidence behind them is very limited. And for many people with PCOS, they may do more harm than good.

Why detoxes don’t work for PCOS

The idea that the body needs an external detox is not supported by research. If your liver, kidneys and digestive system are functioning normally, they’re already working continuously to break down and remove toxins without the need for special diets or supplements.

There’s also no reliable evidence showing that detox diets improve key PCOS concerns such as insulin resistance, androgen levels, ovulation or inflammation. Some detox products can even be problematic, with reports of liver stress linked to certain herbal cleanse supplements.

What’s more, many detoxes rely on severe restriction. They may lead to rapid short-term changes on the scales, but they don’t address the metabolic drivers of PCOS and don’t support long-term hormone balance. This often leaves people feeling like they’ve “failed” another plan when, in reality, it was never designed for sustainable success in the first place.

The impact of restriction on hormones and metabolism

Most clients I work with have been told at some point that they need to be stricter or try harder, that it’s their fault they’re in the position they are. Yet restrictive diets massively place the body under additional stress. For example:

• Very low-calorie intake can affect energy, mood and metabolic rate
• Irregular or insufficient food intake may worsen blood sugar instability
• The stress of deprivation can increase cravings and lead to rebound eating

For people with PCOS, whose bodies may already be working against insulin resistance or inflammation, this kind of disruption can feel especially challenging.

Many women tell me they blame themselves when a restrictive plan isn’t sustainable. But the issue isn’t you. It’s the approach. Restriction may work temporarily, but it isn’t a long-term strategy for supporting hormones, metabolism or overall wellbeing.

What actually supports detoxification in the body

Although detox diets aren’t necessary, we can support the body’s natural detoxification pathways through balanced, consistent habits. These are gentle, realistic shifts rather than extremes.

Examples include:

• Eating enough fibre from vegetables, fruit, whole grains, nuts, seeds and legumes to support regular digestion and healthy gut–liver communication
• Including a balance of proteins, healthy fats and low-GI carbohydrates to stabilise blood glucose
• Eating regular meals to support metabolic rhythm
• Supporting inflammation through foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fats
• Staying hydrated and prioritising sleep, which both play roles in metabolic health

These everyday foundations create a more stable internal environment for hormone regulation than any short-term cleanse.

Better long-term strategies for PCOS

Most people with PCOS don’t need another rigid diet. They need clarity, reassurance and a plan that feels doable even on the busiest weeks. Long-term progress comes from repeatable habits, not restriction.

Sustainable strategies include:

• Building balanced meals with whole foods rather than focusing on what to cut out
• Prioritising fibre and low-GI carbohydrates to support insulin sensitivity
• Having regular meals to keep energy more stable
• Moving your body in ways that feel supportive rather than punishing
• Looking at sleep, stress and overall lifestyle as part of the hormonal picture

And importantly, working with your body rather than fighting against it.

You’re not expected to figure all this out alone. Many people come to me feeling overwhelmed or frustrated after trying countless plans. Once we simplify things and build a strategy that suits their life, the process becomes far more manageable and far less stressful.

If detox diets have left you feeling discouraged in the past, please know that it’s not a lack of willpower. It’s simply that restrictive approaches aren’t designed for long-term success in PCOS. Small, consistent habits are far more powerful. And if you’re ready to move beyond quick fixes? Why not book a free consultation with us, where we can look at how to build a sustainable PCOS plan that works for you.