Reset an unhealthy system with a cleanse

Spring is often seen as a time of renewal, and there’s nothing that can reset your body quite like a cleanse.

Cleanses commonly involve eliminating certain foods or food groups (like meat, dairy or gluten) while focusing on really good nutrition in an effort to “cleanse” your digestive system and potentially reap some big benefits.

“It’s really about detoxifying your system,” said Scott Cater, D.C., of Cater Chiropractic Clinic located in Rockford. “It’s a good process for reviving and resuscitating your body.”

Environmental toxins and past toxins from a less-than-stellar diet can build up, causing all kinds of health issues — from weight gain, to fatigue, to lowered immunity and digestive issues — and Cater recommends periodic cleansing as a way to reset an unhealthy system.

Many people also consider cleanses as a way to jump-start weight loss, said Brenda Richter of Raw Energy, Raw Foods in Belvidere, a business that helps people explore a clean, plant-based, raw diet.

But she encourages her clients to look at a cleanse as a way to incorporate healthier eating choices for life.

“Trying a plant-based diet in and of itself can be very cleansing,” she explained.

Richter often recommends clients start their day with a green juice or smoothie. Because smoothies are already a bit “pre-digested,” they can be a gentle place to start when cleansing.

Cater said that his family has periodically tried a few different cleanses at home, and one includes drinking smoothies three times a day for three days.

More extreme cleanses can stretch for a longer period of time. Some people even choose to fast or avoid food entirely, but Cater said that it’s important to work with a health care professional when considering an intense cleanse.

“The biggest issue with cleansing is making sure that whatever you are cleansing with is clean,” said Cater.

From shakes to teas to supplements, there’s a wide quality-range, and most of the best products will come with a heftier price tag.

But quality is important. Cater has had patients bring in supplements that contain artificial sweeteners and other elements that he said don’t help the body truly detoxify.

“Those taking medications and those with pre-existing conditions also need to exercise extra caution,” Cater said.

Cleansing can also be quite challenging, especially for the first few days, so support can help as well.

“Most people don’t jump in cold turkey,” Richter said. “But they need to remember that they might feel worse before they feel better. That’s an indication of your body trying to get rid of toxins.”

Richter recommends tossing the chips and cookies before starting a cleanse, because it can be hard to choose green juice over Oreos.

But another huge benefit of cleansing is re-acclimating the palate to the taste of healthy food (and less sugar).

“It takes a lot of willpower and support,” Richter said. “But eventually people can expect to gain energy and optimal brain function, and cleansing can help a lot with sugar addiction.”

For anyone considering a cleanse, Cater and Richter recommend focusing on raw fruits and vegetables and doing careful research to determine which kind of cleanse is a good fit.

For some, a little warm water with lemon and cayenne each morning and an overall healthy diet might be enough, said Richter.

For others, looking into eliminating problem food groups and even testing for underlying allergies might be the best option, said Cater.

Both Cater and Richter offer consultations and support for those considering cleansing.

Brenda Richter of Raw Energy, Raw Foods in Belvidere, offers up this quick smoothie recipe for those looking to cleanse and detoxify.

“Green, leafy vegetables are one of the very best foods to eat, but people often don’t get enough of them,” she said.

Adding spinach to this fruity smoothie produces a verdant green drink that tastes like tropical fruit.

1 mango, cubed

1 frozen, chopped banana

I cup of spinach

1 cup to 1½ cups water

Blend using 1 cup of water and add more if necessary. For added antioxidants an flavor, add any kind of berries.

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