The detoxifying syrup diet is better known as The Master Cleanse or Lemonade Diet. The program was originated by Stanley Burroughs as a way to detoxify and cleanse your body of waste and toxins. The diet lasts about 10 days and no solid foods are consumed. Every day, you will drink six to 12 glasses of lemonade that consists of purified water, fresh lemon juice, cayenne pepper and maple syrup. Before starting the detoxifying syrup diet, speak with your doctor about missing nutrients such as protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals.
Purpose of Detoxification
Stanley Burroughs believes that all diseases that affect the body are caused by the buildup of toxins. Burroughs states that this accumulation is caused by poor dietary choices such as eating devitalized foods and consuming foods that have a negative impact on your body. Devitalized foods are those that have been processed and stripped of their vital nutrients. Examples include white sugar, refined flour and baked goods. Foods that affect our body negatively include meat and dairy products, preservatives, fried foods and trans-fatty acids. A combination of poor dietary choices can result in hypoglycemia, digestive problems, constipation and acid formation. The liquid detoxification diet eliminates harmful toxins from your system while at the same time nourishes your body with supportive vitamins and minerals.
Function of Carbohydrates
In "The Complete Master Cleanse," author Tom Woleshyn states that maple syrup is the ingredient that provides you with energy for your body over the period of the detoxification diet. Maple syrup is a carbohydrate that is converted into glucose and released into your bloodstream. Your body then metabolizes glucose for fuel. If you are highly sensitive to sugar or struggle with diabetes, consult with a physician before starting the syrup diet.
Nutrients in Maple Syrup
Maple syrup contains numerous minerals and vitamins to support the body during detoxification. Depending on where and when the syrup was collected, the amount of nutrients varies. Burroughs recommends using Grade B maple syrup because it is the last sap to be collected and therefore contains more minerals than Grade A. Maple syrup provides minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, sodium, iron, zinc, copper, tin, sulfur and silicon. Vitamins are present as well like vitamin A, biotin, folic acid and other B-complex vitamins.
Function of Alkalizing Foods
In "The Complete Master Cleanse," author Tom Woleshyn says that lemons are considered an acid food but are highly alkalizing to the body when digested. Woleshhyn defines alkalizing as the process of neutralizing the accumulation of acids. Decreasing acidity levels will reduce inflammation, swelling and water retention. Water will help flush the acidity out into various organs for elimination. The acids in lemon also help to break down calcified substances in the body such as kidney stones and gallstones. In addition, lemons contain minerals that alkalize the body's tissues. This includes potassium, calcium and magnesium, which are also found in maple syrup.
Benefits of Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is ground from the pods and seeds of a red pepper. In "The Master Cleanser," Stanley Burroughs claims that cayenne pepper acts as a stimulant. The herb raises metabolism, increases circulation, purifies and thins the blood and helps with many digestive problems. Cayenne also breaks up and loosens mucus in the body. Woleshyn says that this action benefits the sinuses, bronchial tubes and the lungs. The pepper helps clear pathways for easier breathing.
References
- "The Master Cleanser: With Special Needs and Problems"; Stanley Burroughs; 1993
- "The Complete Master Cleanse"; Tom Woloshyn; 2007
- "Lose Weight, Have More Energy & Be Happier in 10 Days"; Peter Glickman; 2008
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