What Can You Eat While On The Master Cleanse Diet?

The Master Cleanse is also known as the Maple Syrup Diet and The Lemonade Diet. It is based on a detox regimen that was devised in the 1940s by a California-based naturopath. In 1976, Stanley Burroughs wrote a small booklet that informed readers how to do the cleanse, which he named "The Master Cleanser."

Function

Several celebrities, including Beyonce and Robin Quivers, have publicly praised the Master Cleanse and attributed their success in losing weight to the diet. However, although you undoubtedly will lose weight if you follow the diet correctly, Burroughs devised the cleanse as a method of detoxing the body to cure and prevent disease rather than to lose weight. Burroughs believed the accumulation of toxins in the body to be the principal cause of ill health.

Time Frame

Master Cleanse practitioners advise that the cleanse be followed for a minimum of 10 days. In his book, Burroughs states the cleanse can be safely followed for up to 40 days, and for even longer periods if serious illness is present. A three-day ease-in period is also advised, and an ease-out protocol is vital to avoid possible extreme discomfort.

Ease-In Period

During the ease-in period, you will be eating only natural foods that have not been processed in any way. On the first day, any raw, uncooked produce may be eaten that is not derived from an animal source. On the second day, raw vegetable and fruit juices should be consumed or the produce can be blended to make a puree. No solids are to be eaten. On the third day you are to drink around 3 pints of orange juice. Plenty of pure water should also be taken.

Cleansing Period

During the minimum 10 days of the cleanse, no solids foods can be eaten. Your nourishment comes from a drink made with fresh lemon juice, cayenne pepper and grade B maple syrup. These ingredients are mixed with pure water and can be ingested as often as desired throughout the day. Herbal laxative teas and a saltwater drink are also advised to help the elimination process.

Ease-Out Protocol

It is vitally important to observe the ease-out protocol. Your system will not be accustomed to digesting solid foods, and if you return to a regular diet too quickly, you are likely to experience extreme discomfort. You can either repeat the ease-in period in reverse, or drink only orange juice for the first two days, then add raw fruits, vegetables and salads on the third day.

Expert Insight

Many professionals do not support the Master Cleanse. Katherine Zeratsky, a Mayo Clinic nutritionist, recommends eating a healthy diet consisting of fruits and vegetables, lean protein and whole grains in favor of detox diets.