Detox = Remove Toxins
I have to say I’m a little embarrassed to be saying this, but I am definitely a sugar addict! As soon as I start eating sweet things, that’s all I want to do. And sweet treats lead to me needing salty snacks and then of course, I need more sweet and the back and forth continues until I am filled with guilt and regret! Even as I’m eating (and eating), I am telling myself that I don’t even want it, but I CAN’T STOP!
When I get into these “off the wagon” phases I start to feel puffy, agitated and I have even noticed that I become a bit unfriendly to those around me. I hadn’t really done much in the way of cleanses or detoxes before learning about the 3 Day Refresh from Beachbody. Being the type of person I am, I decided to do a little research about what the term “DETOX” really means, as related to health so I would have a better understanding about what I was getting into and why.
Here are some benefits of a “doing a detox”:
- Lose weight
- Slow premature aging
- Improve quality of life
- Increase energy
- Improve skin quality
- Mental and emotional clarity
- Restore balance to our body’s systems
Everyday Toxins
Toxins can be environmental pollutants, cancer-causing chemicals, preservatives, pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial waste that can affect metabolism, behavior, immune system, and can lead to disease. These toxins are stored in tissues and cells throughout the body, including the brain, maybe even for years.
You can cut down on using chemical products – like personal health care and cleaning products and use natural alternatives. This isn’t the type of detox I was thinking about – but I found that to be interesting information! I hadn’t thought much about the fact that chemicals from my hair products might be affecting my health. I have cut back on how much I wash my hair and I’ll gladly give up doing dishes to help with toxin reduction.
Food Toxins
FOOD was the area I was targeting with my detox plan – I knew what to do, but was having trouble committing to doing it on my own. If you’re looking to detox, first, reduce your toxin intakes. Quit alcohol, coffee, cigarettes, refined sugars, and saturated fats – these all act as toxins in the body and will get in the way of bringing your body into balance.
My Detox Plan
I opted for the 3-Day Refresh because it’s straightforward and easy to follow. The 3-Day program gets a 3-5 pound weight loss – but MORE IMPORTANTLY, I was looking to snap out of my BAD NUTRITION habits and get back to feeling cleaner, lighter, and more HEALTHY…without starving myself. I won’t say it’s easy to do – especially when I’ve been snacking so much lately. But, it’s only 3 days and if I stick to the schedule, I never really feel that SO HUNGRY feeling.
I made this cheat sheet image and set it as the wallpaper on my phone, so I could see the schedule quickly. This also meant there was no room for excuses. My husband committed to the refresh along with me, so he also had the cheat sheet on his phone. Misery loves company! HA!
The Fiber Sweep has a bad reputation, but it’s not that bad. Drink it cold and quick!
Detox Dinners
Our dinners have been the spinach salad on day 1 and then the veggie stir fry on day 2. These meals are pretty easy for me because I like vegetables. It’s not as easy for my husband because he just doesn’t like vegetables – on day 1 he was dreaming of a stromboli! Day 2 he headed to bed early – one of my best strategies to avoid snacking. Each lunch and dinner has a protein packed Vanilla Fresh shake to go along with it.
Veggie Stir Fry & Vanilla Fresh
QUICK RESULTS
I am looking forward to the results this week!! Here is my meal plan for this week with the 3 Day Refresh planned out for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. I actually started on Sunday, but my plan was already typed up! The detox fit in really well with my return to school as a teacher – less food planning and prep for this busy adjustment week.
I am looking for a few people for my next challenge group! If you are are looking for help with your nutrition, fill out the information form here or below and I’ll be in touch! We can work together until you are feeling great! Inside and out!