How Do You Suggest Starting?

[levamd1]

I've recently decided to go raw for the health and weight loss benefits (have fibromyalgia, migraines & quite a bit of weight to lose). I ordered the book yesterday.

I have a question, though. I've also read the benefits of a cleanse. Do you think it would be beneficial to do a cleanse first or just jump into raw feet first?

[Rawkinlocs]

There really is no solid answer on this one. Many have jump-started their raw diets with a cleanse such as a juice fast or the Master Cleanse, etc. But many have also just started eating raw.

Alissa recommends just going raw...no cleanses or fasts beforehand. Start by thinking of all the fruits and veggies, nuts and seeds you currently like/love and get them. Clean out your cupboards and fridge (unless you have loved ones living at home who will still be eating cooked food) and get things you will want to eat raw.

Once your book arrives, however, you will see a section on the main staples..or you can view previous threads here about what the main staples are and start restocking your kitchen. Here is a link to one such discussion: http://www.rawfoodtalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1994&highlight=staples

[exurb]

leva, you didn't get many answers to your thread before, probably because it's more a matter of personal choice.

My personal vote is "NO" on the cleanse.

Also a good way to start:
1) go buy some fruit and veg
2) eat them.

Don't drive yourself crazy in the early stages. Also don't believe everything you read, and really look at the sources things are coming from. Do some research, there are some cleanses out there that are "iffy".

I don't know much about migraines, but the outlook is sure good for you on the Fibromyalgia and the weight issue, so welcome and good luck!!

Use the banana to search on fibro, I have posted a link to a study that showed a dramatic improvement for FM patients with a raw diet.

[berrienoire]

I dunno... I'm kinda yes and no when it comes to "internal cleansing". I know several people that have used internal colon cleanses/parasite cleanses and, oh boy OH BOY, they sure do have some stories to tell. But, I do agree with starting by just going raw.

[mommamia]

Don't drive yourself crazy in the early stages. Also don't believe everything you read, and really look at the sources things are coming from. Do some research, there are some cleanses out there that are "iffy".




As a newbie myself I just have to say "ditto."
I got saturated on looking up so much info, and breathing the whole raw thing. Just do it, don't overthink in the first couple weeks I would have to say. That was just me, as I burn out mentally rather quick.

You're going to feel great!! I"m excited for you! Welcome to raw!

[levamd1]

Thanks for all your replies. My 5th anniversary is on the 14th and we already have something special planned so I decided to do a cleanse from tomorrow until the 14th, have our day and go raw the next day. I'll be cleaned out a little bit and it will give me time to get the book, really go through it and plan and clean out my cupboards.