Anyone up for a Master Cleanse 3/1? [Archive]

Katie P

02-15-2010, 12:25 PM

Yay! EatRaw I'm very excited!
I love your straight talk! I drink the chocolate flavored smooth move tea @ night. They do recommend the SWF even if you have BM's from the tea. It's kinda like the rinse cycle. The tea gets everything moving then the SWF flushes it out of you. Tea & SWF are recommended throughout the cleanse.

I feel kinda toxic, havin trouble getting rid of some weight around my mid section so I think I must be holding in toxins that are effecting my hormones. Guess I'll find out!

Is this your first time doing the MC?

EatRaw

02-15-2010, 03:09 PM

I drink the chocolate flavored smooth move tea @ night. They do recommend the SWF even if you have BM's from the tea. It's kinda like the rinse cycle. The tea gets everything moving then the SWF flushes it out of you. Tea & SWF are recommended throughout the cleanse.

Is this your first time doing the MC?

Yes this will be my first time!! I found a PDF of Burroughs book last year...and have wanted to give it a go, but just never have. It will help greatly doing it with someone!!

The tea your talking about...is it Yogi's?

The way I read his book is...he recommends tea at night and SWF in the morning...and if for some reason you can't do the SWF in the morning...then tea at night and tea again in the morning.

What kind of salt do you use?

Thanks for all your help!!!

I'm excited!!

dave

Mindy Sue

02-15-2010, 05:26 PM

I just started the MC today, my first time. I'm going through a lot of things right now, and felt that this was something that I needed. I was going to get the chocolate flavored smooth move, but liked the additional ingredients in the regular. Maybe I will get the chocolate when this box is gone.

The tea she is talking about is Traditional Medicinals Organic Smooth Move - I got mine at the HFS.

askcassyfirst

02-15-2010, 09:13 PM

Hey there. I'm an 'old-timer' here on RFT, but since my son's birth I only check in from time to time. I started the MC over the weekend, so when looking for support and inspiration I stumbled upon your [katie p's] previous thread from back in November.

I wanted to say 'thumbs up!' to all of you planning an early spring cleanse. I've done a few shorter juice fasts and a feast since my son was born, but this week marks my first real return to season cleansing with the MC. (We're finally weaning so I feel comfortable entering detox.) I forgot how much I like the lemonade.

A few have asked others for details, so I thought I'd mention that I do the MC fairly unorthodox-ly, although it's just a slight adaptation. I mix the drink up for the day most times, as it makes for convenience. Since I work from home, this allows my hubby to bring me a glass when I call to the other room, but also so I don't have to interrupt my phone meetings, etc. It's a hold over from the days when I worked outside in 'the real world'. :) Grin.

I also don't do the SWF, but choose to take mag citrate. It does the job but is less likely to inspire nausea for me.

I did the MC for the first time about 7 years ago. After that I did it 1-2 times a year until I got pregnant in 2007. I was inspired by my parents, who are in their 60s and fast for health purposes quite regularly.

Glad to be back in the company of my rawsome friends here on the boards.

-Cassy

Jstmee46

02-16-2010, 12:32 AM

Love this.. I am doing the master cleanse on the 25th. I have been doing them for two years every three months.. I am doing it on my 30 day anniversary of being 100% raw.. Last one I did for 14 days I was going to go longer but I ran out of maple . That grade b is a tough one to get unless I do mail order.. This time I have 2x as much, so if i want to go longer I can.. So I will be on it still when you all start .. see you on the m/c journey ...... bring on the lemons.:D
jstmee46

Mindy Sue

02-16-2010, 06:36 AM

Katie P

02-16-2010, 08:25 AM

It's not unusual to get cramps from the tea & usually if you are having stomach pains once you eliminate it should go away.

I kinda wish I was doing it now!!!!! I'm ready! Just waiting to see if I'm going on vacation or not.

EATRAW.....If I started before March 1st would you wanna start earlier? It kinda depends on a couple of things for me so I'd let you know as soon as possible.

I'm having this thing where I wanna eat when I'm not hungry & the MC always brings me back to a place where I appreciate food & don't take it for granted. Also feeling lighter is a major bonus!!!!

MiahTay

02-16-2010, 02:39 PM

I drank the tea last night and boy howdy.... I go to bed early (also get up early) so I drank it around 7:45. Around 4'ish I got horrible stomach pains and then it did it's job. The SWF does nothing for me - nada. As far as the tea goes, is it normal to have stomach pains or should I only consume 1/2 a cup tonight? I'm scared :eek:

I have the same problem with the tea, but what I have found is if I brew it for a fraction of the time it helps greatly. If I remember right I brew for about 2 min. instead of the 15 minutes it recommends on the box. But you could even do less than that if it's still too strong. Hope it helps.

Blessings,
Heather

Raediance

02-16-2010, 05:19 PM

Katie P

02-16-2010, 08:56 PM

I'm IN!
I did a 10 day MC last May and LOVED it! I wanted to keep going but had out of town obligations so I felt like I needed to stop, and ever since then I have been wanting to do it again, but this time until I really feel ready to stop- at least 10 days, maybe 14, or more? Since then I have been working on taking baby steps towards getting back to raw and my plan was to do the MC starting around March 1 and then go 100% RAW, so this is perfect. I am really looking forward to the support, everybody!

AWESOME!!!!!!!! I can't wait....actually, I'm not! LOL! I really feel my body calling me to do it sooner so I'm gonna start friday (well thursday night technically) I can't ignore what my body is saying.

If anyone wants to start then let me know?!!!

askcassyfirst

02-16-2010, 09:58 PM

Well, I'll be ending my fast about the time you start, but I'll be thinking positive, cleansing thoughts for you and the rest!

-Cassy

Katie P

02-17-2010, 06:23 AM

Does anyone NOT eliminate that much on the MC? My mom goes AAAALLLLL the time, & I go maybe once or twice right after the SWF & that's usually it. Sometimes I won't go but just 1x & it won't be much @ all.

Maybe I detox more through my skin? I have no idea!

Raediance

02-17-2010, 07:51 PM

Hey Katie P, I think I might just join you on Friday as well. My schedule is wide open and I feel READY for this! I am going to think on this tonight and either get prepared tomorrow or stick with the March 1st date, but I am really leaning towards Friday...

EatRaw

02-17-2010, 08:06 PM

I'll be sticking to March 1st, I'll be watching this thread though!:D

I would like to see how everyone does things...;) LOL eg. To see who mixes a days worth of the lemonaide or just a glass at a time? What salt do you use (celtic) or another? Etc....

dave

askcassyfirst

02-17-2010, 08:52 PM

My day went really well today. I'm long past the cravings, so now its the hump of missing chewing which always seems to strike me around day 5.

I was able to get some syrup in bulk at my local co-op today, which was great. My family and I are big into reducing waste, so it was fun to be able to walk in with my bottle and fill it up.

To Dave, I mix up 2 quarts or a gallon at a time. I also use Celtic salt for the SWF, although I don't always use the salt, preferring mag citrate to loosen the bowels. (less nausea)

-Cassy

Mindy Sue

02-18-2010, 04:35 AM

Day #4 for me. It isn't as bad as I thought. I think this is exactly what I needed to get me out of this funk I am in. I only did the tea once, and the SWF don't do anything to me. Is that ok or should I force myself to do the tea :eek:

Katie P

02-18-2010, 06:17 AM

Raediance....awesome! The laxative tea starts tonight! I'm totally pumped!

Mindy Sue......Force it if you can you'll get the best results that way. I don't like the SWF at all but I force myself to do as much of it as I can cause I know it's best in the end!

This is awesome! Congrats everyone for doing it & for us who will be starting it soon!

askcassiefirst....I feel ya with the chewing thing when I do the MC too. Hitting that wall sucks but I've found that's when I realize how temporary the fix of chewing food is!

askcassyfirst

02-18-2010, 09:29 AM

I also thought I'd mention that drinking the SWF via a straw makes it much easier to go down.

On a related note, the first time I did the SWF I miss-measured the water, using about 12 oz short of the full quart. The extreme saltiness was overpowering and really turned me off. Once I realized I'd made the mistake it was downhill, and much easier. However, the memory of that 'brine' is partly what causes the nausea for me, and why I started using the mag citrate powder.

Today I used the SWF and no issue.

Feeling pretty good, actually.

-Cassy

PS: A tip a friend passed on: use a straw for the SWF.

Katie P

02-18-2010, 11:16 AM

PS: A tip a friend passed on: use a straw for the SWF.

That's the only way I can do it! I use a fat straw so it doesn't take as long. I also look out the window when I do it! Distractions help :)

Raediance

02-18-2010, 05:50 PM

OK! I got my maple syrup today and already have organic lemons, smooth move, and cayenne. I will start the tea tonight. I have found that doing the SWF on Day 1 doesnt really work, I usually wait til day 2 and beyond when I am emptier and it works great then! I also find it to be pretty gross but it really works for me and, to me, that is what makes the MC so good, the cleansing of the entire tract as the salt water goes down. I, too, use a straw and just get it down as fast as possible. I have found that the first 3 days are hard, then after that its smooth sailing, I am excited to get started!

Allisonheck

02-18-2010, 06:28 PM

Katie P

02-18-2010, 07:06 PM

I did the MC over 3 years ago, for 21 days. I just have one question though i did not work out at that time and i work out pretty heavy on a regular basis has anyone done this while working out with weights and cardio??

Only if I have energy. But to be quite honest I use the cleanse to let my body rest. So I typically don't work-out & just focus on resting & getting more sleep. I might do some yoga this time or just stretching.

After a nice cleanse & rest period for my body I'm more than ready to hit the gym hard:)

Katie P

02-18-2010, 08:45 PM

Sippin' on my tea for the first night! AHHHHH! I always get siked/ excited/ mixed emotions right before I do it. There's no goin back. These 10days will fly!!!!

askcassyfirst

02-18-2010, 09:23 PM

Sending positive thoughts! Not to throw in a silly Olympic metaphor, but I've rounded the halfway mark and it's all down hill for me! :)

Katie, do you sip herbal teas when you do the MC? I often include mint tea, as Burroughs mentions. Anyone else use warm mint tea?

I was thinking...I'm open about being on the MC here on RFT, plus my husband, sister and father know, but this time I've decided not to go public with it at work and on Facebook/my blog. (Typically I'm very much open, sharing everything as I go along.) I feel this has been a good choice for me this time, allowing me to be more contemplative, etc. Question to the others on this thread, how open are you about cleansing to your peers?

-Cassy

Katie P

02-19-2010, 06:29 AM

Katie, do you sip herbal teas when you do the MC?

I was thinking...I'm open about being on the MC here on RFT, plus my husband, sister and father know, but this time I've decided not to go public with it at work and on Facebook/my blog. (Typically I'm very much open, sharing everything as I go along.) I feel this has been a good choice for me this time, allowing me to be more contemplative, etc. Question to the others on this thread, how open are you about cleansing to your peers?

-Cassy

Cassy, I don't use any other teas, just the smoothe move.

How open am I about cleansing?
I tell my family, sometimes I tell them after I started, sometimes I don't tell all of them though. I tell some of the people I work with cause it's a small place & they'll all know by day2 Ha!

I guess I keep it more private though. I usually do the MC as a spiritual fast too so it isn't something that I go around telling everybody about, kinda like to keep as much of it as I can between me & God :)

askcassyfirst

02-19-2010, 08:34 AM

Katie:

Hope your first day goes well! The SWF went down really easy today. My son tried to steal my straw, so I let him have it to play with after.

I'm glad it's Friday, although I have an 8 hour class tomorrow so I'm going to pack in my lemonade in a small backpack. Sunday we're going for a hike, which I'm a bit more worried about as my bladder calls to me fairly regularly with this cleanse. :)

If you don't hear from me till Monday, wishing you and any other lurking MC-ers success!

-Cassy

Jstmee46

02-19-2010, 11:29 AM

:d
i did the mc over 3 years ago, for 21 days. I just have one question though i did not work out at that time and i work out pretty heavy on a regular basis has anyone done this while working out with weights and cardio??
i do 30 plus miles on my bike i put a couple table spoons of maple syrup in my water. During my rides my energy is crazey.. The m/c gives me so much energy ,i think it is because are body is not having to spend energy digesting the food.
Jstmee46

Jstmee46

02-19-2010, 11:38 AM

Iam with you cassey,
it is so hard to try to explain the m/c or being 100% raw .. So many pepole are close minded.. I find i enjoy it so much better. But if any one coments on my energy level or how my face looks or wow what are you doing diffrent you look great , i then unlesh the m/c and raw food on them. Kind of like a fly landing on a web so much fun that way..
Jstmee46:d

sending positive thoughts! Not to throw in a silly olympic metaphor, but i've rounded the halfway mark and it's all down hill for me! :)

katie, do you sip herbal teas when you do the mc? I often include mint tea, as burroughs mentions. Anyone else use warm mint tea?

I was thinking...i'm open about being on the mc here on rft, plus my husband, sister and father know, but this time i've decided not to go public with it at work and on facebook/my blog. (typically i'm very much open, sharing everything as i go along.) i feel this has been a good choice for me this time, allowing me to be more contemplative, etc. Question to the others on this thread, how open are you about cleansing to your peers?

-cassy

Raediance

02-19-2010, 02:55 PM

Hey everybody! just want to say I am here and have started DAY 1! I am totally psyched about this and am SO happy for having the support and information from everyone here. Mentally I already feel so much better just for starting... have a great day :D

askcassyfirst

02-19-2010, 03:02 PM

Congrats, Raediance for choosing to embark on the MC journey!

Update: Midday and my energy is great. I feel like 'Chilly-Willy', however, as my internal thermometer is on the blink. This is pretty normal for me when I fast, and is no doubt made worse by the 40 degree weather outside. It's gorgeous outside my home office window, sunny and cold. I'll have to remember to wear yet another layer when we go for the hike on Sunday.

I'm sitting here with knee high socks, leggings, a big sweater topped by a fleece vest and a wool pashima wrapped at my neck. Next think you know I'll be in gloves! I remember once at work in 2005 when I was doing the MC and I wore a hat and gloves at my desk. My co-workers thought I was crazy! :) Nice to work from home because I can crank up my wall heater and take lots of hot shower breaks.

My desire for the LA is decreasing now, and I've been drinking lots of extra water. I had a small cup of warm mint tea to soothe my belly a few hours ago,.

How is everyone else doing today?

-Cassy

Raediance

02-20-2010, 03:19 PM

I finished Day 1- and I feel much better today than I did yesterday. Last night I had a BAD headache, some nausea and an occasional desire to EAT something, but I knew it would pass,,, and it did! I did my first SWF this a.m. and am sipping on my lemonade, plan to have some peppermint tea later.
How is everybody doing?

Katie P

02-21-2010, 08:01 AM

Today is day 3. Oh my gosh I was FREEZING yesterday, but I had a good bout of energy in the day so I went for a walk with my mom. Usually I don't have much energy @ all so I chose to take advantage of it & get out in the sun. I haven't done the SWF yet b/c I'll wake up from the tea I drink @ night & eliminate more than I would if I do the SWF. I actually feel like this time around I'm getting rid of more toxins b/c I'm eliminating bulk, whereas before doing the SWF almost stops me from having bulk & I have just a little diarrhea like bowel movements. Should I wake up tomorrow & not go then I'll do the SWF.

All this encouragement is so nice to have! Everytime I do it I forget how hard it was! But this forum definetly helps. I also have some friends doing it with me which helps keep me accountable.

Hope you all have a great MC filled day :)

CathyA.

02-21-2010, 09:16 AM

I'm not doing the MC right now, but I wanted to throw in a WOOT WOO for all of you. I've done it many times in the past and I know where you are coming from. You rock. You are all super stars. Way to go and keep it up.

Katie P

02-21-2010, 11:32 AM

Raediance

02-21-2010, 03:29 PM

Thanks CathyA! That was a nice little shot of encouragement!

I am also on day 3 and have also been freezing cold! In the past, I have always found that if I can get past day 3 then I start feeling great, like blissed out, spiritual. Looking forward to that!

KatieP, it's cool to be doing this 'in sync' with you. It will be fun to compare notes as we go along. Just a question- are you doing this for cleansing, weight loss, both? I am doing this as a way to clear out the 'gunk' that I have been slowly accumulating as 1 bite of dairy and bread turned into 2 or 3 months of 'anything goes' and boy was I suffering! I react badly to both gluten and dairy and yet for some reason, still succumb to them when stressed, etc. I am determined to conquer that once and for all though and this MC is the first step! Very high raw vegan is my ideal and that is what I want to maintain once the MC is finished.

Anyway, Happy Day everybody!

Katie P

02-21-2010, 05:11 PM

KatieP, it's cool to be doing this 'in sync' with you. It will be fun to compare notes as we go along. Just a question- are you doing this for cleansing, weight loss, both?

I agree, it's awesome to have encouragement from people who are going through the same thing.

I'm doing this for lots of reasons.

#1) Detox-- I tend to detox emotions. I don't keep emotions in per say, but I hold them in my stomach when new emotions come about. Like for example my boyfriend & I broke up after Christmas well I had TONS of different emotions & could feel it in my stomach so this is a nice release.

#2) Cleanse-- just a basic cleanse before spring. I'm looking forward to finishing this & having Daylight savings time shortly after so I'll feel lighter, just kinda goes along with warmer weather....wanting that airy feeling

#3) Fasting-- I like to be empty & take everything to God when I do this. I rely on His strength to get me through since I don't have much & I don't have noise going on & worrying about what meal I'll be eating next....my mind is much more quiet. Plus I like giving my body time to rest from the daily get up at 4:30a.m. work out go through the daily grind thing. I let my body sleep alot more!

#4) Balance hormones-- I have trouble with my mid-section, so when I detox my emotions that I hold in my stomach it helps out. I also wanted to see if this would jump-start any weight loss in my stomach area.

WOW! That's alot!

You can give me details on your reasons too if you'd like!

Keep me posted :)

P.S.-- how many drinks do you usually have a day?

askcassyfirst

02-21-2010, 07:01 PM

Hey gals. It's the end of day 8 for me, and I feel pretty good. We had a nice hike this morning, and while my energy is down I chalk that up to having taken in less LA. Kinda hard to drink too much on the trail cause it makes me have to pee which is quite inconvenient on a public hiking trail that's well traveled on weekends! :)

I'm still planning on transitioning from the cleanse on day 11, (next Wednesday) with OJ all day. Then adding in fruit and veggies on day 12. However, with that in mind I'm considering sticking to some mode of a juice feast for the ten days following that. I'll have to be back on solids by the second week of March because I've got a major Tradeshow trip that starts on the 11th and juicing won't be convenient while I'm away. Course one of my colleagues generally brings her juicer to the hotel room and I could bug juices off of her if its a must. (It's Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, so they'll be tons of healthy raw-ish options anyway.)

Feeling the cleansing goodness washing over me...

-Cassy

askcassyfirst

02-22-2010, 11:56 AM

Day 9 dawns. It's freezing cold here, which makes me feel even chillier. However, I've dressed warmly and am still able to feel/see the sun shining in from my home office window.

Hope everyone else is doing well, I know the first few days are the hardest.

-Cassy

Katie P

02-22-2010, 12:27 PM

Today is day #4. Holy crap I'm FREEZING! I look forward to the tea at night to warm me up! Had good energy the other day, that kinda comes & goes. This is the first time on this cleanse that I wake up pretty refreshed. Usually I can lay in bed forever & not wanna get up. I'm also not as tired as I thought I'd be earlier in the evening. So overall I'm not as tired as before.

Hopefully with each detox it will get better & better!

What do you all say when someone asks you "why are you detoxing cause you already eat healthy?

Raediance

02-22-2010, 06:45 PM

Here on Day 4, feeling pretty good! I didnt do the SWF this morning because I had an early appointment, so no tea last night either. I plan on just resuming tonight/tomorrow.

KatieP, to answer your question, I have been drinking from between 4-5 drinks a day. I know I am "supposed" to have more, but that is all I have wanted, I just drink when I feel hungry. It is amazing how they can wipe out hunger pangs... I need to remind myself of that when off the cleanse! Also, as to why I am doing this, mostly I just feel like I need a 'reset'. I have done this so many times in the past- stayed healthy, raw, vegan, whole foods, etc- and then I go off the rails and eat crap (always stay vegetarian, tho)! I am really trying to address this from an emotional/mental standpoint and feel like I am making progress, but the MC is definitely good at cleaning out the sludge from SAD. I also love not having to think about/ plan for/ shop for food, too. It is liberating! Also, I wanted to thank you for inspiring me to start last Friday. I am really glad I just started and am now on Day 4. Thanks! :)

Congrats Cassy on day 9! Are you ending with Day 10? Way to go!

This is becoming easier and easier, no thoughts about wanting to eat at all!:D

askcassyfirst

02-23-2010, 08:42 AM

It's day 10! So Raediance, yes, today is the final day of the LA. Tomorrow, day 11, I transition with OJ, and then on to broths and juices on Thursday. To be honest, this morning I'm beginning to wish that I could go longer with the MC, but am still thrilled with my process.

I plan to stay with at least two meals a day as a juice feast/shake for at least the next two weeks. Like the MC, they too will be a modified fasting drink and will keep the cleansing process alive and well.

My skin looks so fresh and lively, which is a big deal since I"m living in the Pacific North West and it's the middle of the rainy season. This CA/FL girl misses her sunny climes! But that's one reason I'm a fan of live and raw foods because it's kind of like getting sunshine 'second hand'. (versus via animal products where you are getting them third hand from the animals that ate the plants that absorbed the sunlight.)

I learned that my Dad and Step Mom started the MC yesterday and plan to go 10 days. They are the ones that turned me onto the MC years ago, and have been doing it fairly regularly each season. My father has followed the program for as long as 30 days and it has been a big part of his successful management of cancer. Hurrah!

Well, time to get to work. I'll check in later.

-Cassy

Katie P

02-23-2010, 09:06 AM

Does anyone not eliminate that much after the SWF? I'm wondering if I should even do it b/c I don't really go hardly anything at all. Does anyone else have this issue? My mom seems to think it's b/c I'm so healthy.

Day #5----HUMP DAY!!!!!!! WOO HOO!!!!!

askcassyfirst

02-23-2010, 09:41 AM

Katie: If I've learned anything from working in the digestive care industry, I've learned that the idea of pounds and pounds of impacted fecal matter can be myth. While it is normal to have 1-7 pounds of digesting food, waste, water, probiotic cultures in our system at any one time, once you start the cleanse, and if you are on a fairly regular elimination schedule, (1-3 times a day), you may not have so much to reduce.

The key with the MC, as Stanley Burroughs created it was to use the LA to get your systems moving, and detoxification process flowing. The cayenne increases your metabolic rate, and since things are being 'loosened' throughout the system, you want to make sure you are having healthy eliminations to get them on their way. The SWF is like a 'soaker' which affects the chloride channels in your colon, drawing water in, and flushing out the contents. For folks with weak bowel muscles, he indicated the tea, which is stimulant in nature.

Personally, I'm not a fan of stimulants, nor the SWF. I find that my system moves fairly regularly for the first few days of the cleanse as fiberous material runs its course. After that, the SWF does little.

For someone whose eaten a lot of dairy, meat, wheat gluten and other constipating materials, they may see difficult eliminations initially, but then as they find the balance of the right amount of salt and stimulant, they can keep 'going'.

A couple of thoughts: Burroughs was a Hygienist and did not believe in enemas or colonics...hence the oral flush. You could try colonics if you are concerned about eliminations...

-Cassy

Katie P

02-23-2010, 10:10 AM

Cassy
so are you recommending I not do the SWF & just let nature run it's course? (p.s. I eliminated a good amount from the time I posted my last response til just now--- but eliminating like that everyday is far & few between)

I just wonder if I'd do fine without the SWF?

askcassyfirst

02-23-2010, 10:26 AM

To be clear: I'm saying that if you are doing the MC in an orthodox way, you'd of course want to do the flush. However, you could use just the tea (as Burroughs describes in the book for folks whose bodies don't tolerate the flush) or, you could do traditional colonics or enemas to ensure the washing affect of the colon. If you are not orthodox about it you could also use magnesium, which is my preference.

The key is to keep eliminating. :)

Katie P

02-23-2010, 11:20 AM

Cassy
do you mind sharing details on how you use magnesium? what amount & how often?

askcassyfirst

02-23-2010, 11:45 AM

Mag powder...Right now I have a generic product, but there are a variety on the market. Mix with water, drink. If I opt for mag instead of the flush, I just take it at night before bed. Also helps you relax too, so it's good stuff. You want to start with the recommended dose, but adjust to bowel tolerance. Just like you would with the salt.

In the past I worked for Brenda Watson (Renew Life Formulas) and at times used her CleanseSmart part two evening formula which contains mag hydroxide. Her formula also has soothing herbs, etc. Not too MC orthodox, but it worked for me.

The key is to use a form of magnesium that is poorly absorbed...the less absorbable, the more it will cause the water to be drawn into the colon to flush.

Hope that helps.

-Cassy

Katie P

02-23-2010, 11:51 AM

Thanks! One more question for ya, do you do the tea @ night or just the mag?

askcassyfirst

02-23-2010, 12:19 PM

I just do the mag. Sometimes I do the mag at night and sfw or mag repeat in the morning.

For digestive reasons I am not a fan of stimulant laxatives. I have IBS-C (or had it before i went raw in 2003 :) ) and I have a personal issue against taking senna, which is recommended by Burroughs.

-cassy

Raediance

02-23-2010, 04:24 PM

Wow! So much good info here, guys! I am very interested in the magnesium, as I also have a problem with senna. I've been doing it because that is what I've always done on the MC but I am going to research this for the future. I am one of those who the SWF works well for because, as Cassy mentioned, I was foolishly consuming dairy and gluten over the last few months, and then, even when I stopped eating those, sticking, to ~50% raw vegan, I still felt 'stuck', things just werent moving even after 3 weeks of lots of salads, etc,,, which is why I did the MC. I did NOT do the SWF yesterday as I mentioned but still had lots of eliminations, actually, I finally feel like I am 'unstuck'- I hope that makes sense! Anyway, I am feeling SO MUCH BETTER!

KatieP, I understand how hard it can be with family. I am by no means 'thin' but (usually) eat a pretty healthy diet, and even when I eat what to me is total crap- most people look at those foods as still very healthy ones ( as compared to the average SAD diet). Anyway, my family (husband and 15 yo son) usually just roll their eyes at me whenever I do something like this- they think its wacky & just dont get it. They dont give me too hard of a time but there definitely isnt a lot of support there. Thats ok, though, I still love 'em! It's hard to do what you think is right when everyone around you is telling you you are wrong- but thats what makes you stronger! ;)

Cassy, the last time I did the MC, back in May, I also wanted to keep going when I was on day 10. I had to drive about 600 miles, though, and I didnt want to be woozy while driving, so I stopped. I think that is a sign that the MC is really beneficial and I am super impressed with your dad going 30 days. How awesome to have family that 'gets it'! Any chance that you might keep going? My plan is to not necessarily stop at day 10, only if I want to, just to stop when I feel that it's the right time.

Katie P

02-23-2010, 10:05 PM

Thanks Raediance! It was like all the sudden I was starting to question should I be doing this, when moments before I was with my family I had no doubts!

Thanks again!

Day #6 tomorrow.....BRING IT ON!

askcassyfirst

02-23-2010, 10:20 PM

Bedtime, day 10. Feeling great! My body is telling me it's time to transition now, however, as I lost desire for my LA today, and mostly wanted water. (A typical sign for me. I drank about half what I have been having all week.) And my son was asking for 'milky', which he's mostly weaned from, which is why I consented to fast this time. (low calories means less breast milk.) So, back on solids for this girl, but only after a day of Oj and then the veggie broth. I'm still committed to two juice feast meals a day, with a solid meal at night for the next few weeks. This way I can add in some higher fat and calorie drinks like coconut which will prevent my milk from going away completely. FYI: my son is 20 months and so the breast milk is not for nourishing, mostly for comfort, I suppose. :)

I'll check back in tomorrow as I transition, but will be cheering the rest of you on for your wonderful cleansing journey!

-Cassy

Katie P

02-24-2010, 06:37 AM

Congrats Cassy! You made it :) That's awesome! How do you feel....other than knowing it's time to transition? Do you feel clean?

Definetly don't forget about us LOL

askcassyfirst

02-24-2010, 09:03 AM

Day 11. Today I break my fast. Was up at 4:30, rip, roaring, and ready to go. (Is that the saying?) Anyway, I was up before my toddler, who typically awakens us at 5 or so, and that's saying something!

I feel like I have energy coming out my ears, which is wonderful because I've got some key work projects due.

I juiced 8 navel oranges and 12 mini tangerines, so now I have about 32 oz of pure citrus juice which mixed with water should get me through most of the day.

I feel lighter, and healthier, and my skin looks fresh and happy.

All in all, a great MC.

-Cassy

askcassyfirst

02-24-2010, 10:06 AM

Forgot to mention: My tongue is clean and pink, my eyes feel clear and sharp.

Katie P

02-24-2010, 12:02 PM

So happy for you Cassy!

Congrats! The journey is well worth it. I can't wait to get to day 7--tomorrow then the end is in sight!!!!!

askcassyfirst

02-24-2010, 12:07 PM

Enjoy the ride!

Katie P

02-24-2010, 12:56 PM

Enjoy the ride!

It's definetly a roller coaster for sure!

Mindy Sue

02-24-2010, 02:40 PM

Today is day #10 for me. I think I am going to go for a few more days. I've lost a lot of weight, although this was definitely not my intentions. I feel that I am over my hurdle and am looking forward to all my raw meals once again. :D

Raediance

02-24-2010, 04:24 PM

Congrats Cassy and Mindy Sue!

Today is Day 6 for me and this is my first 'rough' day since day 1. I woke up with a pounding headache and I just cant seem to shake it, although it has lessened in severity. Still loving the cleanse, though! I know I will feel better soon. :)

askcassyfirst

02-24-2010, 04:28 PM

Go Mindy Sue!

Raediance, I'm sure you've tried it, but what I did for the headache on day 2 was to drink a liter of water and go for a walk. Seemed to get the lymph flowing and release the cellular waste.

Keep going, girls!

-Cassy

Raediance

02-24-2010, 04:53 PM

thanks, Cassy. It is POURING rain here so I am going to get on my rebounder for a bit and try to bounce this thing away!

lizbar

02-24-2010, 06:17 PM

Hi all,
I would love to join in. This will be my 3rd cleanse (with a few false starts:rolleyes:) I feel quite toxic and I am on and off with raw and hoping this will pave the way for me to a healthier and rawer lifestyle.
I'm aiming for the 10 day's, but will take it one day at a time. Happy cleansing and will check back in a few days.
Liz

Mindy Sue

02-25-2010, 04:17 AM

I can't decide when to stop.... day#11

Katie P

02-25-2010, 08:43 AM

[QUOTE=Mindy Sue;593933]I can't decide when to stop.... day#11[/QUOTE

Listen to your body! If you feel like you need to keep detoxing....go for it!

I'm on day #7! I think I'm hitting a wall! I don't wanna squeeze anymore lemons....I'm ready for a new taste in my mouth! ALMOST THERE!!!!

Raediance

02-25-2010, 10:52 AM

DAY 7!!!!

Welcome Lizbar! I was also feeling pretty toxic and the MC is such a quick method for clearing out the toxins, I love it. Am also hoping to stick to very high raw after this. In fact, I just keep thinking about all my favorite raw foods, not about chips (my downfall) at all!

KatieP- I felt like that yesterday- bad day :( but I figured I would wait it out and today I feel great! It turns out that I think I wasnt drinking enough water, I had a headache all day and just kind of sat around feeling blah. Then I drank a full quart of water and instantly felt better, like within 10 minutes my headache was gone! Sometimes the most obvious thing is the answer... About the lemons- I have an electric citrus juicer that makes it pretty easy. I juice 2 or 3 lemons at a time. Are you squeezing by hand?

MindySue, I have a feeling I will be where you are in a few days, I will be interested to see how your progress goes!

Happy day everyone! :D

Katie P

02-25-2010, 12:03 PM

I juice by hand!!!! HAHA!

Glad you feel better. UGH! I hate emotional detoxes....that's a huge reason why I do the MC! But I know I gotta get them out or they just make me toxic, so some days I just cry! Kinda funny :)

Raediance

02-25-2010, 12:21 PM

Hang in there! Remember: Better out than in! :)

askcassyfirst

02-25-2010, 05:00 PM

Hey ladies! So glad to hear that everyone is going strong and beating back the detox doldrums.

I'm about to have my first solid foods tonight...a salad. We'll see how it goes. The juice yesterday and smoothies today have been fine and tolerated nicely.

I stopped by to mention an interesting side affect of this last cleans for me: My feet seem narrower. I guess it's loss of water retention? I've always had feet on the wide side, and after the pregnancy they never seemed to shrink. But I put on my running shoes today to go for my first run post MC, and they had to be tightened in the laces! Wowsers. Kinda cool.

I'm only 5' 5.5" and yet after the baby my foot was a full size 10! (went up a size) So, maybe it won't shrink in length, but it has narrowed. Good show!

Well, I'll keep checking in on everyone, and will certainly be back for another cleanse next season.

See ya!

-Cassy

Katie P

02-25-2010, 08:18 PM

Hang in there! Remember: Better out than in! :)

LOL! SOOOOO TRUE! How are you doing?

I was a little sad tonight. My friend who I was doing the MC with stopped today. She was mentally exhausted. I know she did awesome & it really took alot for her to do this so I'm very happy for her but we were both encouraging each other now I feel kinda empty......wait....is this my detox symptom? HAHA

3 more days! I can't WAIT to be done! I feel good & light though which is always a plus!;)

Katie P

02-26-2010, 07:16 AM

OMG!!!!!!!!! TODAY IS DAY #8 !!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm very excited to be close to done ***laughs*** :)

Hope everyone is doing great!

Raediance....how are you doing?
Cassy.........how was your transition?
MindySue....You still doin' the cleanse?

askcassyfirst

02-26-2010, 10:03 AM

Kate - Transition to solids: Had a small marinated cabbage health salad which I'd put in the fridge 3 days ago. It was good. I spent a long time chewing! Later on I had some romaine lettuce and shredded carrot dressed with an avocado and vinegar dressing. That caused a few sharp cramps, but other then that it was fine. I ate a lot less volume than I typically do with a salad, but hey, my tummy has shrank from the fast.

I'm continuing with my juice feast twice a day with the salad and solids in the evening. Overall I'm confident I'll stay with this method until I leave for Expo on the 11th. I may have a solid lunch on Saturday, as the DH is taking me out in the afternoon. But I'll likely have the juice/smoothie for dinner so as to maintain my program.

Sounds like everyone is hanging in there. Sorry, Katie, that your friend jumped ship. But you've got us on the boards for encouragement and support.

Just a few more days ladies!

-Cassy

Katie P

02-26-2010, 12:00 PM

Thanks Cassy!

I know I always chew alot more & eat alot slower for a while after the MC. I don't know if it's b/c I appreciate food so much more after not having it for 11 days or if I just know that my body may have to work harder @ digesting so I like to help it out!

Raediance

02-26-2010, 09:10 PM

Hey everyone!

Busy day, havent even touched my computer (its 7pm here on the west coast). So, Day 8 went pretty good, even though very busy my lemonade kept me going and I am starting to really feel more spiritual and in touch with myself than I have lately. Am thinking I am going to go 11 days, through Monday, and then OJ on tuesday. I wanted to go a little longer than I have in the past, so 11 days will accomplish that. Of course, I might change my mind and go longer, but definitely not shorter. Think I might go a few days on juices and green smoothies before solids. Again, not sure, just starting to think about it. I know I want to stay 100% vegan and very high raw for good this time and stop caving to my cravings. I'm gonna do it!

Mindy Sue

02-27-2010, 06:36 AM

Yesterday was day 12, and today I am starting orange juice. :D

Katie P

02-27-2010, 08:34 AM

Well I started my Orange Juice today. I did 8 days & thought I was going for 10 but really felt God calling me to be done----since I do it more for a spiritual fast. I feel really good about ending it today. I soooo badly wanna eat fresh fruits! I'll do OJ today & maybe eat an orange tonight. Tomorrow I'll probably finish off any OJ & eat oranges & maybe an apple or 2.

Mindy Sue

02-27-2010, 10:37 AM

I am ready to eat. I will continue the oj and decide in the morning, but I think my stomach is telling me it's hungry. :p I have so many subscribed threads in the recipe section. I am going to be busy busy busy!

dread head vegan

02-27-2010, 05:57 PM

i am in for the MC on the first. i am going to do the MC for 15 days. then do a juice and green smoothie feast for 85 days :D

Raediance

02-27-2010, 10:32 PM

Day 9 for me- no real desire to stop. Just thinking about all the good RAW foods I love that are in my future so I hope to just stay raw as long as possible, allowing myself a few things lightly cooked if I desire. This is only because in the past my 100% raw or nothing mentality has definitely gotten in my way.

KatieP- I understand that you stopped if thats what you were feeling like. It doesnt sound like you were needing the physical cleanse as much as I was. Way to go for making it 8 days and I hope you accomplished what you set out to!

Way to go Mindy Sue! Thanks for sharing. I also am looking forward to diving into a bunch of awesome raw recipes. I love to (un)cook!

Dread head vegan- welcome to the thread. a lot of us started early and are finished or will be finished soon. I hope some others will join you and I wish you all the best! I have had a fantastic cleanse- I always love the MC and recommend it highly. I'll be here at least 2 more days, though!:D

Katie P

02-28-2010, 04:41 PM

Raediance...you're doing AWESOME! Keep it up! You got us for support :)

Katie P

02-28-2010, 04:42 PM

Yesterday was my first day off the cleanse & I did mainly orange juice & oranges....then today I did oranges & fruit & now for dinner I'm eating a salad. OMG I've never been this hungry coming off of a cleanse! My body is craving fat like crazy!!!!

askcassyfirst

02-28-2010, 05:27 PM

Katie:
Interesting that you crave fats. Instinctively, your body knows what you've been abstaining from for a bit! :) I too have noticed that while I don't 'crave' the fats right now (I've been mixing lemon juice with avocado as my salad dressing rather than using pure olive oil) I have noticed that the lack of fat in the last three weeks has affected my bowel. (I've got IBS-C and it 'notices' when I go low-fat.)

This is one of the reasons I never worry too much when I do super high fat for a few days, or even weeks. I figure my body is craving it, and hey, the quality of fats is everything. the type of fat is also a factor. Coconuts agree really well with me, and help balance my hormones and PCOS. I have been known to eat an entire mature coconut a day! (Back when I first went raw in '03 I lived in the islands and they only cost 10 cents each!)

I had a sudden urge to consume fats today (5 days post MC) and so I ate some nuts (well chewed) and plan to put oil on my salad tonight. I also added coconut 'mylk' to my smoothies today to up the fats in the am and lunch time too.

Cheers to everyone who has just started the MC, and will be cleansing in March.

-Cassy

Katie P

02-28-2010, 05:39 PM

Cassy
it's good to know I'm not the only one craving fats after a cleanse. I had a salad & put a little olive oil dressing on it w/ 1/2 avacado & a few walnuts. Before I did the cleanse my body didn't want nuts AT ALL! Now it's like GIMME NUTS! LOL. I almost thought I shouldn't eat fat since I'm only on day 2 after the cleanse but I just couldn't ignore my body!

It IS cool how our bodies tell us what we want! I figure I'll give it what it wants!

EatRaw

02-28-2010, 07:31 PM

Thanks for all the info in this thread....I've been keeping up with everyone. Congrats to everyone on their cleanse!

I'll be sipping my tea tonight....and starting the cleanse tomorrow, planning on 10 days but will see where it goes.

dave

Katie P

02-28-2010, 07:32 PM

Raediance

02-28-2010, 09:01 PM

Hey everyone!

Just finishing up day 10 here (yay!) and I feel great! I am going to go ahead and do 1 more day on lemonade tomorrow if for no other reason but that I wanted to go a little bit longer this time than 10 days. I am just starting to feel like I am ready for something else (fruit!- there are some organic mangoes in my fridge that are calling my name!) so 1 more day should work out well

Thanks for the support KatieP and also I just wanted to thank you again for motivating me to start when we did instead of waiting. Now tomorrow is March 1st and we have already done our cleanse! How awesome is that!

Good luck Eatraw and everyone else just getting started. I had a couple of rough moments along the way but if you just keep going they will pass. Dont forget to drink water! ;)

Cheers! (lifting lemonade glass) :)

Katie P

03-01-2010, 06:33 AM

Thanks for the support KatieP and also I just wanted to thank you again for motivating me to start when we did instead of waiting. Now tomorrow is March 1st and we have already done our cleanse! How awesome is that!

IT'S TOTALLY AWESOME!!!!

today is your last day....enjoy :)

EatRaw

03-01-2010, 07:44 PM

Well this is my first MC and I was a bit worried about the tea...(after reading some had cramps etc..) Didn't bother me a bit....was really gentle this morning. Went to bed wondering if I would be awakened during the night.:eek:

Got the SWF down with no problems (again was easier than I thought it would be).

Had 6 LA's today with a quart of water.

So day 1 is about over..with no problems :D Only 9 more to go....hehe

Anyone else start today...or am I going it alone....LOL ;)

dave

livin

03-02-2010, 07:03 AM

Had 6 LA's today with a quart of water.

So day 1 is about over..with no problems :D Only 9 more to go....hehe

Anyone else start today...or am I going it alone....LOL ;)

dave

Dave,
I started on March 1, but I'm a little lost. I haven't checked in here since last week, but based on Raediance's and KatieP's last posts, I'm a little confused. Did I miss everything? Did anyone else start a 10 day MC on March 1?
Gotta get to work so I didn't have time to go read all the posts from the past several days.

EatRaw

03-02-2010, 09:03 AM

Did anyone else start a 10 day MC on March 1?

Most everyone else started earlier and were finished or finishing by or before March 1st.

I thought there were a couple more that were starting 3-1 maybe we will here from them.

dave

Raediance

03-02-2010, 09:50 AM

Hey everyone!
Just a follow up post here. I finished my 11th day yesterday and just had a lovely glass of fresh OJ. I might eat a mango later tonight if I feel ready for it. Overall my cleanse was AWESOME! It was definitely like a reset button for me. I am so ready to stay 'cleansed' by eating pure whole raw foods and to keep away from the foods that were literally weighing me down before. Overall I lost 13 lbs on the cleanse and I feel so light and clean, and so much more in touch with myself, more spiritual, etc.

To livin and eatraw and anyone else just starting- enjoy the MC! I found this forum a few days ago and it has a TON of good info and support on the MC. check it out: http://therawfoodsite.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=9

EatRaw

03-02-2010, 05:25 PM

Congrats on your cleanse Raediance!! Lighter more connected who wouldn't like that! Plus 13 lbs!! Wow!

Thanks for the link!

Today is going about like yesterday, cept no hunger pangs today...not one. One main difference today....I'm Freezing!!:eek: :D hopfully that will pass...or it will get a bit warmer here!:D

dave

EatRaw

03-05-2010, 11:43 AM

Today is day 5, halfway there!

Wanted to do a little update here, since this is my first MC. Some of my experiences, if there are any like me wondering and reading, and have never tried the MC.

Day 2: I was freezing and had alot of head mucus/congestion. No hunger today.
Day 3: Hunger pangs again today, the lemonaide or water takes care of them. I picked up the pace a bit (treadmill)...to help with freezing. Less head mucus today. Awoke easier today. I had a couple good sneezes today. LOL
Day 4: Awoke easy. Noticed alot less pain in my joints today!! :D (One of the main reasons for trying the MC) Head mucus is gone now...I can breathe easier especially at night. felt like I had a better nights sleep.
Day 5: I'm waking earlier (I hope this continues..make the time change easier). No hunger so far today. Joints still feel good! :D No head congestion! I feel lighter.

Just a couple notes:
I mix my LA's fresh everytime/everyday. (I work at home) I use 1/8th cup (2Tbs) lemon juice (organic) and 1/8th cup maple syrup grade B (organic) and I have these 3 cute little measuring spoons that are a Smidgen, Pinch & Dash, it turns out that a rounded Pinch is equal to 1/10th teaspoon...hehe.. so 3 things make it pretty easy and quick, a 1 cup, 1/8th cup, and pinch measuring utensils...oh.. and a hand juicer...hehe

About the SWF I have no problem drinking it at all...I even swish it around in my mouth...LOL..don't know if it has to do with me having a liter of water and 1 lemon juiced first thing in the morning for the last 15 months or not...but I don't have any problem with it at all.

Something I did notice was that if I have a double LA (24oz.) or a liter of water about 45min-1hr after drinking the SWF it makes the BM's happen urgently!! hehe I believe it was Katie P that said she didn't go much but her mom went all the time..maybe try that next time Katie, works for me, didn't notice that till yesterday with a double LA and tried it again today with water went 5 times today so far.

Some TMI:
All BM's are in the morning, first 2hrs. (on day 3 had one late evening) and the least I've had in one day was 3, that was the first day, most 5 and that seems to be the norm for me.

dave

Katie P

03-05-2010, 02:34 PM

EatRaw...congrats for making the halfway point!!!!
I was freeeeezing the whole time I did it too!

You're doin' awesome, keep it up!
Oh & thanks for the tip the next time I do it :)

EatRaw

03-05-2010, 05:11 PM

Thanks Katie!

Thanks to you for starting this thread! ;) I have been wanting to try this for over a year just never got around to it :rolleyes: I had told myself that I was going to in March and your thread just hit home! Even tho we didn't get to spring clean together :D I still appreciate you starting this thread and giving me the motivation.

ETA: My wife just loves it when I stick my cold/freezing feet up against her warm legs at night! hehe

Thanks,
dave

Katie P

03-06-2010, 06:22 AM

ETA: My wife just loves it when I stick my cold/freezing feet up against her warm legs at night! hehe

You are very welcome :) We'll all have to do it again next season!

I remember laying next to my ex-bf & doing the same thing & he was like "OH MY GOSH YOU'RE SOOOOO COLD" ! It was hilarious!

EatRaw

03-10-2010, 02:32 PM

Well today is day 10 for me!!! Yay! :D I did it and it didn't kill me;)...hehe Was easier than I thought it would be.

Tomorrow is orange juice...got the oranges yesterday. I am ready to taste some different juice.

Wanted to add I had mostly 6 LA's a day, I think one day I had 5 and another one 7, maybe if it had been warmer out and I could have gotten out and done more I would have drank more... possibly.

I feel lighter, my head is clearer, my joints feel LOTS better and I lost 9lbs..weighed today.

Next time I do this I may do it in warmer months...because I was cold the whole time, only way I could stay warm was treadmill...had to be moving.

dave

Katie P

03-10-2010, 04:21 PM

EatRaw, let me know when you want to do it next I'd love to do it again with you!

& CONGRATULATIONS on completing 10days! WOOHOO!!! ;)

coconutymom

03-10-2010, 04:35 PM

:o Hi everyone i have been hanging around for the past few days trying to gear up for a Cleanse on March 21st. I see most of you have already started and even ended. I have done several MC's in the past but not for 2 years now. I've never done any other kind of fast/feast before but would also like to try.

I'm also a new mom to an 11 month old and I pumped plenty of milk this whole year that it would last her through out my cleanse. Does anyone else here have experience with still nursung/pumping while cleansing? I just want to pump to keep me from drying out and then we'll go back to regular pumping after. I am really sluggish after a difficult year and packing on a toxic medicated 50 lbs during my high risk pregnancy medical bedrest. Then I was on antibiotics for a bacterial infction in my amnioic fluid and delivered my baby prematurely due to many complications and I was subject to 2 blood transfusions. My daughter is healthy and thriving and developing normaly. on the other hand I feel i need a health boost and cleaning.

I will be eating high raw till the 20th then I start the Smooth Move.....

Any one available to keep me company?

ViolinCyndee

03-11-2010, 11:41 AM

Just saw this thread, and I am on Day 3!

I feel that the MC is taking on a different tone for me this time than ever before. I am facing my food addiction by going to a potluck party while on the MC. Originally, I was going to start it the day after the party, but my body was telling me to start it earlier. (I ate wayyyyyyyy too much cooked vegan food on Sunday! Was still FULL on Monday, so started the MC on Tues!)

I am also experiencing more emotional detox, and have only had slight cravings, so far. Been losing a pound a day, but realize that will prob slow down. :(

SW: 154.6
CW: 151.6