H&H 28-Day Detox

Historically, dietitians don’t love detoxes and I’m no exception. Many cleanses claim to rid your body of toxins, but are devoid of nutrients, or have unexpected side effects. Take juicing, for example. Juicing removes important fiber from fruits (and veggies), meaning the sugars are absorbed more easily into your bloodstream, which can negatively impact blood sugar levels. I mean, can you imagine eating three or four oranges in a sitting…..without the fiber to slow down carb absorption?

But, I do think that “detoxing” from certain trigger foods or behaviors can be good for the body and soul. That’s why I created my own 28-Day Detox, which is based on my personal life (and training in nutrition), rather than following a pre-set plan designed by lord knows who. And starting on February 1st means I have the only 28-day month to serve as my guide.

Here’s what’s out:

• Gluten: You may have noticed an increase in gluten free recipes and tips on my blog lately. While I don’t have Celiac disease, I’m curious to see if my energy levels improve by removing gluten. I have been struggling lately, constantly feeling sluggish and tired, which I suspect is related to my far-too-reliant-on-grains diet.  Instead, I will be getting my whole grains from quinoa, brown rice and occasionally certified gluten free oats. Since oats are highly likely to be contaminated by gluten, it’s important to read packaging carefully if you’re gluten free.
• Cheese: I know, I just proclaimed my love for it, and now I’m throwing it out. That’s because cheese is a trigger food for me, and it doesn’t stick around long at my house. I had three kinds of cheese before noon yesterday. Help?
• Alcohol: Simply put, alcohol is fun, but when abused seriously inhibits my productivity and desire to make healthy choices. I hate wasting entire days after a night out on the town. Abstaining is going to be the hardest part of my detox, but I’m up for the challenge. Although I will probably “pause” this for a (few) glasses of wine on Valentine’s Day. Don’t judge.
• Weekday TV: I enjoy more free time since moving to Denver, but I’m not taking advantage of it. I mean, The Mindy Project, Nashville and RHBH are worth it don’t get me wrong, but they’re not necessarily adding “value” to my life. I vow to spend less time watching TV, and more time catching up with friends/family, getting outside or reading good books. In fact, May Cause Miracles and Conscious Capitalism should arrive any day now. More to come on these reads in the next few weeks.

So, that’s the H&H 28-Day Detox. Just four things to focus on for four weeks. And I hope you will enjoy reading about my experiences along the way.

If you were creating your own detox, what would it look like and why?