In this section, we will look at the possible reactions that can occur during the detoxification process. Each person is unique and may react differently to dietary changes. Reactions to detoxification depend on current lifestyle, genetic factors and the amount of toxins and waste in the body that need to be removed. Do not expect this to happen overnight, as it takes several years to remove the toxins that have accumulated in the body.
A new and easier-to-digest diet triggers the natural process of detoxification and elimination from cells into body fluids, which can cause unpleasant challenges such as:
These symptoms will be more or less pronounced, or may not occur at all, depending on the level of detoxification and how stressed we are. For example, giving up daily coffee intake may cause headaches for 2-3 days. Generally, these symptoms are bearable and normal and will dissipate and disappear completely within 2-3 days. We want to eliminate toxins, which can cause unpleasant sensations. So the key words here are patience and perseverance!
The main thing is to know that they can occur and that they will pass. In many cases, there are few or no symptoms. In others, they are more pronounced but temporary. In rare cases, these symptoms last for more than 48 hours. In this case, adjust your diet to slow down detoxification. There is no reason to suffer, just slow down your programme. The more you relieve the digestion, the more pronounced the detoxification can be. The reverse is also true: simply add more food to slow down detoxification. If the detoxification is very unpleasant, it is possible that the elimination organs are not working efficiently enough, causing the reabsorption of toxins that the body has not been able to eliminate. You can also supplement with activated charcoal or BindTox, which contains the optimal ratio of the three binders, and drink enough fluids.
Detoxification takes place not only in the physical body, but also in the emotional body, which is loaded with toxins such as emotions (resentment, jealousy, envy, anger), unsupportive thoughts (it's too hard, it's not worth it) and limiting beliefs (I'm no good, I can't do this, I don't deserve this). These emotions, thoughts and beliefs are often repressed and stored in our cells. Detoxification can bring them back into circulation, which is the goal! Unpleasant or painful emotions and thoughts may arise during detoxification. It is best to observe and accept these feelings without judgement, and with confidence and the knowledge that they will pass.
Be brave and ask for help if it is difficult. Our FB group is here for you! Peer support and community are a great source of strength and courage, so don't ignore them. Emotional outbursts often come in small doses. There may be crying, sadness, a deepened state of spirituality or unconditional love. This is an opportunity for personal development, to unload old baggage and make room for new. If you are tempted to give up, recognise your ego trying to protect you. Decide whether you want to simply survive or truly move on. Always come back to your big "Why" and keep it in front of your eyes so that you can complete what you set out to do.
In our rich but stressful society, it often happens that we try to compensate for certain emotional deficiencies with a lot of food or other addictive substances. This can lead to addiction and have a negative impact on our well-being. Try to persevere in spite of feeling hungry to prevent overeating. Give your body time to realise that it is sufficiently nourished and focus on feeling full. Also try to enjoy the feeling of emptiness that can occur, as it is quite different from the feeling of 'full and bloated' that we often feel after overeating.
Food cravings can be hidden behind other emotions such as fear, anxiety, insecurity, frustration, sadness or loneliness. If this is something you are experiencing, ask yourself, what emotions are you trying to hide? Think about the real needs you are trying to meet and find other ways to meet them that don't involve eating foods that don't do you any good. If you want to avoid overeating, it is useful to learn to anticipate hunger and organise ways to satisfy it.
Strategies to reduce cravings for unsupportive foods: