Many people ask this because they feel tired, foggy, bloated, or “run down.” The short answer is yes—sometimes, but not because your body needs a trendy cleanse or a harsh juice fast.
A better way to think about it is this: your body already has a built-in detox system (mainly the liver, kidneys, gut, lungs, and skin). What helps energy is supporting those systems and reducing the load from processed foods, alcohol, poor sleep, dehydration, and ongoing inflammation (Alexander, 2020; Healthline, 2024).
So, detoxing can improve energy levels when it means:
eating more whole foods
drinking more water
reducing alcohol and added sugar
improving sleep and digestion
lowering inflammatory food triggers
getting personalized guidance when needed
That is very different from extreme detox products that promise miracles.
The Most Important Fact: Your Body Already Detoxes Itself
This is where much of the confusion starts.
Major medical and nutrition sources agree that the body is designed to detox on its own. MD Anderson explains that the liver is the body’s detoxification “machine,” and that the body does not need a detox program to perform basic detoxification (Alexander, 2020). Healthline also notes that the body can cleanse itself without detox diets (Bjarnadottir, 2024).
That means “detoxing” should not mean trying to replace your body’s detox systems. It should mean supporting them.
A better goal is:
reduce what overwhelms the body
increase what supports normal metabolism
improve recovery, sleep, digestion, and hydration
use evidence-based care—not hype
So, Why Do Some People Feel More Energy After a “Detox”?
Even though detox diets are often overhyped, many people do report more energy. That usually happens for practical reasons, not magic reasons.
MD Anderson notes that when people switch to a healthier, plant-forward eating pattern, they often experience benefits such as increased energy, improved digestion, and reduced inflammation (Alexander, 2020). Mass General also explains that there is little evidence for strict “cleansing” products, but there are ways to help the body detox more efficiently through food choices (Gelsomin, 2020).
Here’s why energy may improve:
You reduce fatigue-triggering foods
When people cut back on alcohol, refined sugar, ultra-processed foods, and late-night heavy eating, they often experience fewer blood sugar swings and less digestive stress. That can help with daytime energy and brain fog (BDA, 2025; University of Wisconsin Integrative Medicine, n.d.).
You improve hydration
Even mild dehydration can worsen fatigue, headaches, and concentration. Detox plans that emphasize fluids may improve energy partly because people are finally hydrating well (University of Wisconsin Integrative Medicine, n.d.; Cenikor, 2024).
You eat more fiber and plant foods
Mass General explains that fiber helps bind compounds and move them out through stool, while also supporting healthy gut bacteria (Gelsomin, 2020). Better bowel regularity and gut function can improve comfort, reduce bloating, and support energy (Gelsomin, 2020).
You lower inflammation and support nutrient intake
A more whole-food pattern usually means more vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. IFM and MD Anderson both describe how nutrition can support detoxification pathways and reduce the inflammatory burden, which may help people feel better overall (IFM, 2025; Alexander, 2020).
You sleep better
When people reduce caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods and build a calmer routine, sleep often improves. Better sleep alone can dramatically improve energy and mental clarity (University of Wisconsin Integrative Medicine, n.d.; Cenikor, 2024).
What Science Supports (and What It Does Not)
This is the part that matters most.
What is supported
Research and clinical nutrition guidance support the idea that food choices can influence detoxification pathways and overall metabolic function. A scientific review in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that foods and food-derived compounds may help modulate detoxification pathways, including liver enzyme systems and antioxidant pathways, while also noting the need for careful, personalized use and more human research (Hodges & Minich, 2015).
IFM also notes that foods and nutrients may support liver biotransformation and elimination, and that a personalized, practitioner-guided plan is important—especially because some dietary components can affect medications (IFM, 2025).
What is not supported
There is no strong evidence that expensive detox teas, extreme juice cleanses, colon cleanses, or supplement stacks are necessary or effective for “removing toxins” in healthy people. Healthline, MD Anderson, and the British Dietetic Association all warn that many detox claims are exaggerated and lack strong evidence (Bjarnadottir, 2024; Alexander, 2020; BDA, 2025).
The BDA even calls detox diets a “marketing myth” and says benefits are often short-lived (BDA, 2025).
How Detoxing Can Improve Energy in a Realistic, Safe Way
If your goal is more energy, think in terms of a reset instead of a harsh detox.
A practical “energy detox” approach
Here is a safer, more evidence-aligned approach:
Drink more water
Aim for steady hydration through the day
Add herbal tea if helpful
Cut back on alcohol
Even a short break can improve sleep and recovery
Reduce added sugar
This helps lower energy crashes
Remove ultra-processed foods for 1–2 weeks
Focus on whole foods
Increase fiber
Beans, oats, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds
Eat more cruciferous vegetables
Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale
Add allium foods
Garlic and onions support normal detox chemistry
Prioritize sleep
Sleep is one of the strongest energy boosters
Move daily
Walking, mobility work, and light exercise improve circulation and energy
Track your symptoms
Energy, bloating, bowel habits, headaches, sleep, and brain fog
Mass General specifically highlights fiber- and sulfur-rich foods (such as garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables) as ways to support the body’s natural detoxification (Gelsomin, 2020). IFM also discusses cruciferous vegetables, berries, and other phytonutrient-rich foods in relation to detox pathways (IFM, 2025).
Why Brain Fog Often Improves Too
People often say, “I have more energy,” but what they really mean is:
less brain fog
better focus
fewer afternoon crashes
better mood
less bloating/heaviness
This can happen because a cleaner diet pattern may improve:
digestion and gut regularity
blood sugar stability
inflammation levels
sleep quality
hydration status
MD Anderson notes that switching to a healthier plant-based eating pattern can deliver many of the benefits that detox products claim, including more energy and reduced inflammation (Alexander, 2020).
A Quick Reality Check: “Detox Symptoms” Can Happen
Some people feel worse before they feel better—especially if they suddenly stop caffeine, sugar, alcohol, or heavily processed foods.
The University of Wisconsin Integrative Medicine handout and other detox resources note that temporary fatigue, headaches, or mood changes can occur, often related to dehydration, low blood sugar, or withdrawal from common substances such as caffeine and sugar (University of Wisconsin Integrative Medicine, n.d.). Cenikor also describes early fatigue and discomfort during detox transitions, though its detox content is focused on substance recovery settings (Cenikor, 2024).
That is one reason extreme detoxes are not ideal.
Signs your “detox” is too aggressive
Stop and get medical guidance if you have:
severe weakness
dizziness or fainting
vomiting
ongoing diarrhea
heart palpitations
confusion
major blood sugar swings
worsening symptoms after several days
MD Anderson also warns that strict detox regimens can cause electrolyte imbalance, deficiencies, GI problems, and fatigue (Alexander, 2020).
The Best Energy Detox Is Personalized
This is where functional medicine and integrative care can help.
Instead of using a one-size-fits-all detox plan, a clinician can look for the real reasons your energy is low, such as:
poor sleep
iron deficiency
thyroid issues
high stress/cortisol dysregulation
insulin resistance
poor gut health
dehydration
medication side effects
nutrient deficiencies
chronic pain or inflammation
overtraining or under-recovery
environmental exposures
IFM emphasizes evaluating toxic exposures and building a personalized strategy with a patient-practitioner partnership, not just a generic plan (IFM, 2025). BioFunctional Health also describes a root-cause approach using diagnostics and personalized interventions for low energy (BioFunctional Health Solutions, n.d.).
Clinical Observations from Dr. Alexander Jimenez’s Integrative Approach
Dr. Alexander Jimenez’s published clinical profile and practice descriptions align well with this personalized, whole-body approach. On his clinical website, he identifies as a DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, and IFMCP, and describes an integrative model that combines chiropractic care, functional medicine, and personalized assessments of lifestyle, nutrition, environmental exposures, and other root-cause factors (Jimenez, n.d.).
His site also explains that his clinic uses:
detailed health assessments
evaluation of environmental exposures
functional medicine programs
personalized care plans
multidisciplinary support (including rehab and integrative therapies)
That is important because low energy is rarely caused by a single factor. In real practice, fatigue often shows up with:
pain
poor sleep
stress
gut issues
inflammation
reduced movement
poor recovery habits
A dual-licensed clinician (chiropractic + nurse practitioner) can look at both structure (pain, mobility, biomechanics) and metabolic/medical factors (labs, nutrition, medication issues, chronic disease risk). This kind of combined view is often more useful than a short-term detox challenge.
What a Smarter “Detox for Energy” Plan Looks Like (7–14 Days)
Here is a practical example you can use as a starting point.
Focus on what to remove
Temporarily reduce or avoid:
alcohol
sugary drinks
candy/desserts
fast food
fried foods
processed snacks
excess caffeine
late-night heavy meals
Focus on what to add
Eat more of:
water and herbal tea
vegetables (especially leafy greens and cruciferous veggies)
berries and whole fruit
beans/lentils
oats and other high-fiber whole grains
nuts and seeds
quality protein
olive oil
garlic and onions
Daily habits that support energy
10–20 minute walk after meals
regular sleep/wake times
sunlight in the morning
lighter dinners
simple breathing or stress-reduction routine
symptom tracking (energy, focus, sleep, digestion)
This style of plan is much more likely to improve energy safely than a harsh cleanse.
When You Should Get Medical Help Instead of Doing a Detox
If fatigue is significant, lasting, or getting worse, don’t assume it is “toxins.”
See a clinician if you have:
fatigue lasting more than 2–4 weeks
unexplained weight loss
chest pain
shortness of breath
black stools or blood in stool
major swelling
fainting
severe headaches
depression symptoms
new numbness/weakness
known diabetes or kidney disease
pregnancy
a history of eating disorders
Also, if you take prescriptions, be careful with detox supplements or fasting plans. IFM notes that dietary components that affect liver enzymes may alter how some medications work (IFM, 2025).
Bottom Line
Yes, detoxing can improve energy levels—but mostly when “detoxing” means an evidence-based reset that supports your body’s natural detox systems.
The biggest energy gains usually come from:
cutting processed foods and sugar
reducing alcohol
improving hydration
eating more fiber and plant foods
improving sleep
lowering inflammation
using a personalized plan
What usually does not help: expensive cleanses, extreme fasting, and miracle detox products.
The most effective approach is a root-cause, personalized plan, especially if fatigue is chronic or linked to pain, digestion, inflammation, or metabolic issues. That is where integrative clinicians—such as those trained in chiropractic, nursing, and functional medicine—can make a real difference through assessment, monitoring, and tailored treatment.
References
Alexander, H. (2020, October 26). 4 detox myths: Get the facts. MD Anderson Cancer Center.
BioFunctional Health Solutions. (n.d.). Energy Improvement Therapies. BioFunctional Health Solutions.
British Dietetic Association. (2025). Detox Diets. BDA Food Factsheet.
Bjarnadottir, A. (2024, April 24). Do Detox Diets and Cleanses Really Work?. Healthline.
Cenikor Foundation. (2024, November 14). What to Expect During Detox. Cenikor.
Gelsomin, E. (2020, August 26). How to Detox Through Diet. Mass General Giving.
Hodges, R. E., & Minich, D. M. (2015). Modulation of Metabolic Detoxification Pathways Using Foods and Food-Derived Components: A Scientific Review with Clinical Application. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Institute for Functional Medicine. (2025, October 7). Supporting Liver Function With Nutrition. IFM.
Institute for Functional Medicine. (n.d.). Toxins & Detoxification. IFM.
Jimenez, A. (n.d.). Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC | APRN, FNP-BC | El Paso Integrative & Injury Care. DrAlexJimenez.com.
University of Wisconsin Integrative Medicine. (n.d.). Detoxification to Promote Health (Patient Handout). Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Wisconsin.
Women’s Health Network. (2025, November 3). 4 Gentle Energy-Boosting Detox Tips. Women’s Health Network.
The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and physical medicine, as well as wellness, sensitive health issues, and functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and facilitate clinical collaboration with specialists across disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and the jurisdiction in which they are licensed to practice. We utilize functional health and wellness protocols to treat and support care for musculoskeletal injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters and issues that directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice. Our office has made a reasonable effort to provide supportive citations and identify relevant research studies for our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies upon request to regulatory boards and the public.
We are here to help you and your family.
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Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, MSACP, APRN, FNP-BC*, CCST, IFMCP, CFMP, ATN
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
Multidisciplinary Licensing & Board Certifications:
Licensed as a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) in Texas & New Mexico*
Texas DC License #: TX5807, Verified: TX5807
New Mexico DC License #: NM-DC2182, Verified: NM-DC2182
Multi-State Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN*) in Texas & Multi-States
Multi-State Compact APRN License by Endorsement (42 States)
Texas APRN License #: 1191402, Verified: 1191402 *
Florida APRN License #: 11043890, Verified: APRN11043890 *
New York APRN License #: N25929, Verified: APRN-N25929*
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ANCC FNP-BC: Board Certified Nurse Practitioner*
Compact Status: Multi-State License: Authorized to Practice in 40 States*
Graduate with Honors: ICHS: MSN-FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner Program)
Degree Granted. Master’s in Family Practice MSN Diploma (Cum Laude)
Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC*, CFMP, IFMCP, ATN, CCST
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