7-Day Detox:

Step One: Removing

I have various areas of concern, with regard to my diet, but this week I am going to focus on removing gluten. I do not consume much of it, but I have noticed that when I do, a shortbread cookie here or a cupcake there, I always pay the price: I bloat, I feel nervous, my brain feels foggy, and the list goes on.

My focus will be on eliminating gluten completely, while focusing on all of the nutrient-dense, gluten-free foods that, more often than not, I ignore: lots of organic fruits, veggies, raw nuts, lean proteins, etc.


Step Two: Adding

At the beginning of this class I chose to make changes to benefit my liver: carrot/kale/beet juice; as well as the following supplements: Spirulina, Milk Thistle, and Psyllium. I also take Dr. Christopher’s Lower Bowel Formula, 3 caps nightly. It contains: Cascara Sagrada Bark, Goldenseal Root, Turkey Rhubarb Root, Red Raspberry Leak, Fennel Seed, Barberry Bark, Ginger Root, Lobelia Herb, Cayenne (I’ve taken this for over a decade, as my body can’t function without it, after years of bulimia-induced laxative abuse).

I also take probiotics and enzymes daily. I hesitate to add any more supplements, but I do plan on adding celery to my juice for my kidneys. I purchased an book detailing acid/alkaline foods and will make a concerted effort to eat an alkaline heavy diet.

Step Three: Opening

Since I started school, last October, I haven’t had time to exercise as I normally do and have spent a ridiculous amount of time sitting (drive time and homework); which means my body is starting to show and feel the effects. A few days ago, I began walking again and plan to do so every night during the cleanse (4 miles). I also scheduled body work for mid-week to help relax and further aid in the detox process. Dry brushing and essential oil baths are also on my list.
I feel the weekly changes we’ve been asked to make since the beginning of class have prepared my to ease into the cleanse. If I have to start at zero, I believe it would be too overwhelming. It feels as if everything is in place and now I can focus on being gluten-free for seven days.