Is waist training actually effective – and more importantly, is it safe? Kim Kardashian and a slew of other celebrities attribute their post-baby bodies to waist training, the process of wearing a corset or corset-like wrap around the waist for an extended period of time – in some cases, every day for months. Advocates insist the method promotes weight loss, reduces water weight and shrinks the waistline, especially after pregnancy.

While wearing a corset or waist wrap can help you feel slimmer for an evening, wearing one day in and day out can squeeze your organs and restrict your movement – which is not something you want if you’re trying to build a strong core.

“Products like these are more for looks than for long-term weight management,” says John Burney, M.D., a gastroenterologist at Piedmont. “While they may mechanically keep you from wanting to eat as much, they also can be incredibly uncomfortable, promote acid reflux and cause back problems.”

The dangers of “detox” products

Dr. Burney also warns against using any product that says “detox,” like a detox stomach wrap.

“That is not how the body works [to detoxify],” he says.

He explains that the liver metabolizes the toxins in the body. There is no magical way to rid the body of toxins other than allowing the liver to naturally remove impurities from the blood.

If you are serious about losing weight, don’t turn to gimmicks and quick fixes. The best way to shape your waistline and lose weight is to combine a healthy diet, regular cardiovascular exercise and strength training. Talk to your physician about the right fitness and meal plan for you.

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