Clean and Clear

The Lifeco opens its first detox retreat in Phuket, drawing in for its supermodelapproved cleansing programme

i can’t imagine Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell lying by the pool, discussing their poo. But that’s pretty much what must happen when the supermodels travel to their detox and wellness resort of choice, The Lifeco, a place where clayand-psyllium-husk drinks form the bulk of your diet and self-administered colonics are on the daily agenda.

But wait — I’ve scared you.

The truth is, if you’re a meat or carb lover; if the idea of putting anything up your behind gives you the heebie-jeebies; if you aren’t a fan of needles; or if you’re in total denial about the current state of your health, then yes, visiting The Lifeco will be scary — but mainly because it will change your life.

I’m not a health freak by any standards. I like salads but I also love cake. I exercise regularly but I do fall off the wagon sometimes. I drink water when I’m thirsty, but definitely not eight glasses a day. I take vitamin supplements — if they’re in the form of gummies, or tablets that become fizzy orange sodas. Anyway, I figure my liver at least must be in a better state than Naomi’s or Kate’s.

Founded in Turkey in 2006, The Lifeco has been a hit with the international set for a decade and opened its first Asia outpost in Phuket last year. The property, which sits just a five-minute drive away from the resort island’s airport, is beautiful and though it isn’t mandatory, most participants in its detox programmes choose