Most holistic healthcare practitioners agree that the average individual could benefit from some sort of internal cleansing program. The intestines are the body's sewage system. Undigested matter and toxins can build up on the walls of the colon over time. The resulting toxicity can cause headaches, constipation, acne, weight gain and weakened immune function. Colon cleansing methods can be as simple as adding fiber and other supplements to the diet, and as rigorous as total fasting. The following colon cleansing program is designed for the average person, and can fit into just about any lifestyle.
Step 1
Take one or two capsules of cascara sagrada the night before beginning this cleanse. This will help to stimulate elimination. It should produce results in eight to 12 hours. Cascara sagrada is a natural herbal laxative. According to Clayton College of Natural Health, it also is a chelating agent, meaning it removes toxins from the body. It is non-habit forming and herbalists consider it safe for long-term use.
Step 2
Drink a glass of warm water with the juice of half a lemon upon waking the next morning. Go for a brisk walk, practice yoga, tai chi or another form of gentle exercise for at least 20 to 30 minutes after drinking the lemon juice before eating breakfast. The lemon helps to stimulate digestion, and this combined with the exercise will help to encourage movement of the colon. Follow this practice every day throughout the duration of the cleanse.
Step 3
Eat a fresh green apple, pineapple, melons or other fruit for breakfast each morning. Wait one to two hours before eating anything else, giving the food ample time to digest properly. Begin each day of the cleanse in this manner. Consume nothing else with breakfast except for water and a fiber supplement drink mix.
Step 4
Have a fresh garden salad for lunch each day during the cleanse. Top this with raw sunflower seeds or almonds and a vinaigrette dressing. Do not use milk-based dressings or cheese, as they can cause congestion in the digestive tract.
Step 5
Eat an early dinner, at least four hours before going to bed. Have a large plate of brown rice, millet or other whole grain topped with steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots and cauliflower. These may be lightly seasoned, but do not use butter or dressing for flavoring. However, olive oil adds a nice flavor and is soothing to the intestines during a cleanse.
Step 6
Take one to two capsules of cascara sagrada and a fiber drink mix again each night before going to bed. Be sure to take plenty of water along with the fiber mix. Lemon juice may be added for flavor. Detox expert, Dr. Elson Haas, recommends lemon water to help remove mucous and toxins from the colon.
Tips and Warnings
- Follow the above cleanse for a minimum of seven days, but no more than a month. Drink plenty of water throughout the day in between meals. Drink very little water with meals to allow the natural digestive enzymes to work undiluted. Eat only the fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and supplements as outlined in the plan. Eliminate all dairy, meat or other animal products during the cleansing period. Avoid coffee, tea, alcohol, soda and any other stimulants as well.
- Always consult your physician or healthcare practitioner before beginning this or any other diet program. If you are currently taking prescription medication, consult your doctor before taking the cascara sagrada or other supplements as they may interfere with the absorption of certain medications.
Things You'll Need
- Bottle cascara sagrada
- Bottle psyllium husk powder or fiber drink mix of choice
- Bag brown rice, quinoa or millet
- Fresh green apples
- Fresh lemons
- Mixed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, onions, cabbage, lettuce, celery cucumbers and tomatoes
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