Cleanse, baby, cleanse.

Steel cut oats, apples, goji berries, raw cacao nibs, and cinnamon. Fresh mango. 

For months, Brian encouraged me to try a cleanse and detox. And every time he mentioned those words, I laughed. I couldn't imagine eliminating the bread, cookies, ice cream, and coffee that I thought I needed in order to get through the day. But after my umteenth stomach ache and overall lack of energy, I finally decided to take Brian's advice. I committed to his 10-day metabolic detox/cleanse (and Brian did it, too!).

Cauliflower, apples, and kale. Fresh pears. 

I was excited, nervous, and a little less than confident as I read through the materials and restrictions. But, I knew that with Brian's support I would get through it!

Medical food ready to be mixed with juice. Broccoli and whipped cauliflower. 

What I love most about Brian's detox/cleanse is that you get to eat the entire time. Although the diet is restricted throughout the ten days, you never have to go without food or depend on only juices or crazy concoctions. It really makes all the difference. In addition to certain grains, fruits, and vegetables, you drink "medical food" several times a day. The medical food was a bit of a challenge for me at first, but after I got used to the taste I looked forward to the drinks and the bursts of energy that came with them.

Rice, zucchini, tomatos, cilantro, and peppers. Oats with strawberries and blueberries. 

After the toughest days in the middle with the most food restrictions, I rejoiced when I got to add rice, fruits, and veggies back into my diet. Like, I literally jumped up and down in my classroom while clapping frantically. And before I knew it day ten arrived and I successfully completed the detox cleanse without cheating once!

I learned a few things about myself during my first cleanse experience. Most importantly, I realized that I can do a lot more than I give myself credit for if I really set my mind to something. I was so proud of myself, the self-proclaimed non-vegetable eater, for eating so cleanly for ten days. I also learned that I do not need caffeine to survive. Since the cleanse, I have only had a few cups of coffee (in contrast to my two-three cup a day habit for the past nine years). The headaches have stopped, and I now only have coffee as a treat. This might change in the future, but I am grateful to know that I can kick the caffeine habit anytime. I also discovered that when I eat organic, real, healthy food consistently my stomach aches disappear (which I knew in theory, but never truly experienced)!

I highly recommend doing a detox/cleanse. Regardless of how healthy or unhealthy you eat, your body will benefit from getting rid of the toxins that have built up over time. For more information about Brian's detox/cleanse, head over to his website. He can ship everything you need anywhere in the US and provides email support throughout the process! If you have any questions about my experiences with the detox/cleanse, don't hesitate to comment or email.