Diets To Accompany Cleansing

Cleansing programs often include taking herbal supplements that target all of the internal organs, especially the colon. The effects are obvious: more bowel movements and sometimes rapid colon evacuation. It is possible to continue eating during a directed cleanse, but it is important to remember to eat mainly easy-to-digest, whole foods.

Whole Grains, Legumes

Steamed vegetables and whole grains, including millet, quinoa, brown rice and oats, are usually well-tolerated during a cleansing diet, according to Elson Haas, MD, author of "The New Detox Diet." For example, a simple breakfast of cooked quinoa with chopped almonds and rice milk or plain oatmeal with stewed apples provides fiber and is easily digested. Protein foods might include well-cooked legumes such as lentils, mung beans, very small amounts of yogurt, or soft-boiled eggs.

Juice Fresh Fruits, Vegetables

Juicing fresh vegetables and fruits will help you absorb vitamins and minerals during a detox program, according to Carrie L'Esperance, author of "The Seasonal Detox Diet." For example, juicing apples, carrots and lemons provides vitamins A and C, and makes for a better pick-me-up than coffee. Juicing is better than consuming frozen, canned or sugar-based juices as fresh juices retain vitamins and contain no refined sweeteners.

Non-Saturated Fats

Add very small amounts of non-saturated fats to your diet. Include flax seed, hemp seed, olive, canola, sunflower and all kinds of fish oils. These literally help lubricate the gastrointestinal tract and also provide important essential fatty acids. For example, drizzle a tablespoon of flax seed oil over cooked grains or vegetables or legumes.

The consumption of non-saturated fats will not contribute to the development of heart disease or high blood pressure, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which provides dietary guidelines in its nutritional matrix called My Food Pyramid.