Why Cleanse?

We have all heard the word "cleanse," but what does it mean? When Beyonce stated that her weight loss for Dreamgirls was attributed to the "Master Cleanse," what was she referring to?
By definition, to "cleanse" is to make something thoroughly clean, or to rid of something unpleasant or unwanted. So, really a cleanse's first order of business is not weight loss, but the cleaning of the body. But what is making your body "dirty?"
The unnatural food additives in processed foods are really the primary focus of a cleanse...to cleanse the body of unnatural, unwanted toxins. So far, the Master Cleanse has been getting most of the buzz. This involves a strict intake of lemon juice, maple syrup, Cayenne pepper and pure water. AKA, general starvation. I don't really need to go into detail on how I feel about this. I'm sure most of you can guess that I'm rolling my eyes right about now.
The major dangers involved with starvation cleanses include...

1. Lack of energy
2. Rapid fluid loss
3. Electrolyte imbalance
4. Nutrient deficiency
5. Muscle breakdown
6. Metabolism damage

So, how can you achieve a cleansing of your body without harming your health?

Answer: The Back to Balance Cleanse

Less of a cleanse, and more of a natural way of eating, the Back to Balance Cleanse is designed to healthily and naturally get your body back in balance. Using an approved foods list and easy to follow meal plans and recipes, this cleanse has several goals.

1. Restricted calories, while providing needed macronutrients in healthy proportions

2. Average daily intake meets recommended daily allowances (RDA's) for all essential nutrients

3. Decreased artificial additive intake

4. High fiber intake (approx. 30g/day)

5. Low sodium intake

6. Increased hydration

The overall outcome is, of course, decreased toxins in the body. This can lead to increased energy and weight loss, improving your overall health.

Throughout the week I will be posting the needed materials for you to try out the BTB Cleanse including the approved foods list, grocery list, meal plans, and recipes. I will be posting information about the different aspects of the cleanse and it's flexibility. Most importantly, I will be discussing how to turn the cleanse into an everyday, healthy eating pattern!

Happy Cleanse Week...get excited!!!