Motivation to lose weight often hits an all-time high when the first buds of spring pop out, signaling that bathing suit season is not far behind. And while there's no getting around the need to exercise and eat healthier, long-term weight loss starts in your head.

The Dr. Sebi diet, also called the Dr. Sebi alkaline diet, is a plant-based diet developed by the late Dr. Sebi. It’s claimed to rejuvenate your cells by eliminating toxic waste through alkalizing your blood. The diet relies on eating a short list of approved foods along with many supplements. This article reviews the benefits and downsides of the Dr. Sebi diet and whether scientific evidence backs up its health claims.