In this last of our 6-part review of the Dr Junger Clean Cleanse Program we have 10 helpful hints on managing emotions to make sure you can stay on the Program.
The Clean Cleanse Program has become quite a phenomenon, particularly among those who are keen on changing their lives for the better via effective detox and cleansing. For the most part, the Clean by Dr. Alejandro Junger has been lauded by consumers and health professionals alike due to its proven effects.
While the Clean program is one of the few detox kits and detox diets that work, those who have decided to undergo the process of Clean cleansing should take note of how they can get the best results from this program, especially when it comes to the long-term benefits.
Listed below are some of the best ways on how to make the most of the Clean Cleanse Program, along with a brief explanation of each guideline.
Weight loss
It is important to understand that while weight loss is one of the immediate effects of the Clean Cleansing Program, it is not its primary purpose. Many people make the mistake of deciding to undergo detox thinking that it is their best choice for a weight loss diet.
While it is quite reasonable to expect losing a few kilos/pounds during and after the cleansing, it is even more important to keep sight of the main goal, which is to rid the body of harmful toxins. Here are a couple of tips on how to keep one’s mind of thoughts regarding weight loss:
- Hide the scale for the duration of the cleanse – avoiding the scale is one of the most effective ways on how to keep one’s mind off how much weight has already been lost. The process of detox is all about relieving the body of stress, which is caused by unhealthy habits such as indulging in fast food as well as different types of pollution & toxins. Constantly obsessing about numbers can very well negate the positive effects of cleansing, which would render the process an exercise in futility.
- Keep expectations realistic – many people treat detox diets as weight loss miracles and pin all their hopes on the process. Some even have lofty expectations such as losing more than 20 pounds after only their first foray into cleansing. This can prove to be counterproductive and can even cause depression especially when such expectations are not met.
People who decide to take on the Clean Program should trust that the detox diet will work to their full advantage. The exact amount of weight loss is merely a fringe benefit, in addition to all the wonderful effects of the cleansing diet.
Food and emotions
Being 21 day cleanse program, it is challenging in more ways than one, especially when it comes to dealing with emotions and their impact on a person’s cravings. Food and emotions are inextricably linked because people often turn to binge eating in order to fill the void they are feeling, particularly during the hardest phase of the diet.
In the first few days of the cleanse, one can expect a wave of emotions that can be strong enough to make quitting seem like a better prospect. However, there are a few things that can prevent emotional cave in, one of which is to focus on a productive task that does not involve food.
Emotional hunger is the enemy of any detox diet plan and knowing the signs of emotional hunger will come in very handy, especially for those who have not had any experience on cleansing diets. The following are indications of emotional hunger, which must be addressed accordingly in order to prevent going off the diet parameters:
- Craving for one particular type of food – this is a typical sign of emotional hunger as the body goes through a rebellious phase. If you are yearning for a specific food, it is highly likely that your body is simply attempting to break free of emotional hunger. In fact, there is no real need for food at all.
- Urge to eat even when full (or right after a full meal) – this is an obvious indication of emotional hunger since there is no physical need for nourishment. Should this occur, it is best to steer clear of the kitchen and/or dining area and any place where there is food or temptation for food (grocery store/television).
- Feeling Guilt/Shame – most people feel tempted to eat even when food is completely unnecessary. When the urge to eat is coupled with the feeling of guilt and/or shame, it is safe to assume that such hunger is merely a manifestation of emotional pangs as opposed to real physical yearning for nourishment.
There are several things you can do when you are emotionally hungry:
- Keep your mind busy – with small projects such as organizing the closet or rearranging home furniture are effective distractions that would turn the mind’s attention away from food. After a while, the brain gets the idea of not craving for food, after which the body will eventually get the same message.
- Drink more liquids – since emotional hunger cannot always be avoided, hydration is a powerful tool to have in one’s arsenal. It is best to drink only water and/or natural fruit juices since the Clean Detox Diet precludes the consumption of carbonated and/or caffeinated beverages. Note: Purified or distilled water is best to consume when on a cleansing diet.
- Channel your energy towards fitness – going for a walk around the block, calling a friend to join you, or doing some light stretching are just some of the things that can divert one’s attention away from indulging in food. Going on a cleansing diet requires not only physical strength but strong mental resolve as well, because the body will always be on the defensive.
The benefits of exercise during a cleanse includes getting your mind off food for longer periods of time, burning off more calories, which allows for more weight loss, activating the lymphatic system and removes more toxins at a faster rate, allow more sweat to dissipate, which in turn removes more liquid toxins, and improve digestion and bowel movements.
Only light exercises are allowed during a cleanse so such activities as walking and stretching are highly recommended. Never attempt to do heavy workout routines such as running or weight lifting as the effects can be catastrophic and perhaps even life threatening.
Should I Snack?
Yes. However, this should be done within reason and using utmost control at all times. If you are not convinced of your ability to snack within the given limits of the diet, it is highly recommended that you do not indulge at all. The Cleanse Program allows for a certain leeway, but it is severely restricted for obvious reasons. It is best to keep in mind that the ultimate goal is to alleviate the body of the stress that comes with the consumption of unhealthy foods and beverages.
What to Do When Eating Out
While it is ill advised to dine out during a cleanse, there are instances when it is unavoidable. For those who cannot get away from certain social events or gatherings, it is best to know what to do (and not to do) when eating out.
- Do extensive research prior to going out – learn which restaurants offer the healthiest menus or food items. If dining out cannot be avoided, you should at least go to a place where healthy items are offered to interested diners.
- Offer your place for dinner – cooking for friends is not only a great way to entertain, but it also helps you avoid triggers and temptations. It is easier to avoid unhealthy food when you are preparing the meal yourself.
Making the most out of a cleansing diet takes a great deal of effort and discipline from an individual. Knowing one’s specific goals and personal reasons for going on a cleanse can seriously improve the experience and reduce the anxiety that comes with all the restrictions.
Other Parts of this 6-Part in-depth review of the Clean Program include:
- Part 1: A quick summary of the Clean Program
- Part 2: The core of this Clean Program Review: what are the six key elements that makes the program so special
- Part 3: The 5 steps of the 21 Day Elimination Diet and its benefits
- Part 4: How to prepare for the 21 Day Cleanse Diet, and 6 hints on what to do afterwards
- Part 5: Which foods to include and which to avoid while on the 21 Day Detox Diet Plan
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Further reading
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