Feeling sluggish after December? Grace Mondlana’s detox moment has SA relating

As the calendar flips to January, many people find themselves caught between the remnants of festive indulgences and their health and fitness goals.

The annual cycle of overindulgence during the holiday season can leave one feeling lethargic and out of sorts, which often prompts the quest for detoxification.

While detoxing commonly invokes images of juice cleanses and extreme diets, the truth is that our bodies are naturally equipped to handle detoxification through various organs: the liver, kidneys, skin and gut.

Yet, for many, this innate ability doesn't seem enough, leading them to explore alternative detox methods.

Recently, popular YouTuber Grace  Mondlana opened up on social media about her struggles post-New Year celebrations.

“We are five days into 2026 and I already have a problem. This is a sign that I need to take laxatives," she confessed as she threw away the remnants of a midnight snack.

“Nyoko (bile) is the only thing that can make me go downstairs and get snacks at 1am instead of sleeping” she highlighted.

“I have a crazy appetite not for healthy food but for sweet stuff. I have to flush that out,” said Mondlana.

Mondlana then humorously strugglles bottle down BP castor oil, a commonly touted detox solution.

Her use of BP castor oil is grounded in both traditional and anecdotal beliefs, particularly within Ayurvedic medicine, where it is hailed as a potent laxative.

The oil works by stimulating the gut and facilitating rapid emptying, which many consider a detoxifying “cleanse.”

Its active component, ricinoleic acid, promotes muscle contractions in the intestinal walls, prompting bowel movements.

This forceful action is often mischaracterised as a "detox" protocol, providing temporary relief but lacking long-term benefits.

Mondlana is not the only person of influence who swears by detoxing. Celebrities also have their common detox trends or rituals that they live by. 

For instance, Pearl Thusi advocates for silence as a detox tool, finding respite in intentionally stepping back from noise and social media to reset mentally.

Maps Maponyane promotes soaking up early-morning sunlight to regulate circadian rhythms, suggesting that the light boost improves sleep - an important aspect of detoxification.

Instead of cutting calories, Thando Thabethe proposes scheduling earlier dinners, which can support digestion and reduce inflammation.International celebrities also dabble in unique detox practices.

Gwyneth Paltrow’s endorses mono-day eating, where she opts for one simple food type for the day, reduces digestive strain without complete deprivation.

Beyoncé incorporates rest days into her routine for recovery, while Chris Hemsworth turns to cold exposure techniques to enhance circulation.

In the realm of detoxing, common  myths and old wives tales also exist: 

Onions in socks: A folk remedy suggesting that onions can draw out toxins is unsupported by scientific evidence.

Detox teas and juice cleanses: Often marketed as solutions for weight loss, they usually result in temporary water loss rather than long-term health benefits.

Fasting or liquid diets: While calorie restriction may appear to clean you out, it can also lead to nutrient deficiencies and electrolyte imbalances.

Oil pulling: While this practice may assist with oral hygiene, it fails to deliver whole-body detox results.

Colonic irrigation: Medically regarded as unnecessary, it poses potential health risks without a demonstrated efficacy in removing built-up waste.

The detox myth: understanding the science

It's important to clarify that the human body is adept at detoxification in its own right.

While many methods touted in popular culture lack scientific backing, understanding how to support your body's natural detox systems is essential.

Stay hydrated: Adequate water intake plays a pivotal role in aiding your kidneys and digestive tract to efficiently eliminate waste.

Balanced diet: Emphasising whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and fibres while steering clear of processed foods and excessive sugars helps to ease the load on detox organs.

Limit alcohol: Heavy drinking can damage liver function, destabilising its ability to filter toxins.

Quality sleep: Sufficient rest enables the brain to cleanse and rid itself of toxic by-products accumulated throughout the day.

Regular exercise: Engaging in physical activity boosts blood circulation and promotes lymphatic movement, enhancing organ function.

However, many still seek alternative approaches, often rooted in cultural traditions or personal anecdotes.

These can range from simple folk remedies to expansive celebrity-inspired detox rituals.

As we strive to start the year fresh, the allure of quick detox methods remains strong.

However, the most effective detox is achieved not through stringent regimens or extreme measures but through sustainable lifestyle changes.

Embracing hydration, a balanced diet, quality sleep, and regular exercise will support your body’s natural detoxification processes better than any fad cleanse ever could.

Ultimately, when it comes to detoxing, listening to your body and aligning with its natural rhythms might just be the best approach.