Detox diets are popular diet plans that are intended to cleanse by removing toxins such as alcohol, caffeine, smoke, pharmaceuticals and other pollutants from your body. These diets are also designed to help some of your key organs function better, such as your liver. The 21-Day Cleanse is a detox diet that takes a holistic approach to cleaning out your body and improving overall health.
Foundation
Kathy Freston, a spiritual counselor, developed the 21-Day Cleanse in her book entitled "Quantum Wellness." The program is designed to decrease your need for addictive substances such as sugars, animal products and alcohol by eating only plant-based foods. As a part of the program, Freston institutes exercise, stress management, visualization and spiritual practice, along with the dietary component. At the end of the three-week detox, you're supposed to have more energy, better digestion and relief from minor joint and muscle pain.
Diet and Nutrition
The 21-Day Cleanse offers recipes for vegetarian cuisine with common foods such as tofu, brown rice, soy, peanut butter and avocado, but fresh fruits and vegetables are the core of the diet. Some of the provided recipes may be difficult and time-consuming to prepare, but the plan also comes with simpler versions of acceptable foods. Following the diet is a critical part of the program; it is designed to flush all of the toxins and animal products out of your body and give your digestive organs a rest.
Exercise
During the 21-Day Cleanse, you're supposed to work out at least three times a week for 30 minutes. Freston encourages outdoor exercise and up to six days of exercise per week if possible. The exercise component of the program is designed to show you that an active lifestyle is an important part of long-term weight loss and healthy living.
Mental and Spiritual
As with many other cleanse diets, the 21-Day Cleanse also encourages you to analyze and address areas of stress in your life. The 21-Day Cleanse teaches you how food and the process of eating affect you emotionally and spiritually as well.
Criticism
The 21-Day Cleanse, and detox diets in general, are controversial. Diets in Review says that maintaining the 21-Day Cleanse lifestyle after the program is difficult due to the complexity of the recommended meals and dietary restrictions. Every Diet also points out that not all aspects of the diet, particularly the spiritual and emotional components, a necessary for people who are only looking for a weight loss and fitness plan.
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