Cleansing is necessary to keep our bodies functioning at their best. Pollution from the environment, oxidative stress, and additives (pesticides, chemical colors and flavorings) in our water and food are stored in organs and fatty tissue and build up in our bodies over time. Cleansing this toxic load can help to boost the immune system, improve vitality, get rid of headaches, allergies, fatigue, pain, arthritis and other symptoms, and can result in substantial weight loss. One of the most powerful dietary cleanses is the Lemon Cleanse or Master Cleanse.
Where the Lemon Cleanse Began
The lemon cleanse was developed by Stanley Burroughs and is laid out in his 1976 book, Healing for the Age of Enlightenment. The book addresses several unconventional aspects of health care, including Vita Flex reflexology, color therapy, and the lemon cleanse. A smaller book by Burroughs, The Master Cleanser, covers only the cleanse.
Despite the wealth of information about the master cleanse that is available on the internet and by word of mouth, it is advisable to read one of these books before attempting the lemon cleanse to get the details right and avoid adverse effects.
What is the Master Cleanse?
The master cleanse consists of 6 to 12 glasses a day of:
- juice of 1/2 a lemon
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/10 tsp cayenne pepper (or less, to taste)
- 8 oz water
This protocol is used for at least ten days, although the cleanse may be followed for up to a month. The cleanse is completed when white buildup on the tongue fades and it appears pink again (showing all candida is gone).
Food is not consumed during the cleanse; instead, a glass or two of the “lemonade” mixture is consumed whenever hungry. A laxative tea is also used during the cleanse.
Special protocols are laid out for coming off of the master cleanse which should be followed completely.
Why Lemons?
Lemons are one of the best foods for the human body. They provide vitamins and minerals as well as making the body more alkaline and helping to cleanse.
Organic lemons are preferable for the cleanse.
Why Maple Syrup?
Maple syrup is one of the few unprocessed good sugars that provide micronutrients as well as calories to the body. It is high in minerals including zinc and manganese. For the Master Cleanse, Burroughs recommends grade B because it contains more minerals than the lighter grades of maple syrup. It is also less likely than grade A (light) syrup to contain formaldehyde.
If you prefer, agave may be substituted for maple syrup in the master cleanse.
Is the Master Cleanse a Fast or a Starvation Diet?
No.
The master cleanse is more gentle on the body than a fast. Most cleansing fasts leave a person incapacitated or in bed for their duration. On the master cleanse, the only inconvenience is making sure to have ready access to the ingredients. Many people report high energy levels and productivity even during the cleanse.
Maple syrup provides for the body’s caloric needs even as the lemon, cayenne, and high water intake encourage toxins and buildup to leave the body. Minerals and vitamins are provided by the mineral-rich maple syrup and lemon juice (which is high in vitamin C and other nutrients). The master cleanse is not intended to be used permanently, but it is completely safe in the short term provided the directions are closely followed.
The Primary Goal of a Cleanse Is Not Usually to Lose Weight...
...but substantial weight loss can be one result.
If you don’t want to lose weight or find you are losing weight too quickly, add more maple syrup to each glass of “lemonade” or increase your intake in glasses per day.
The master cleanse is not for everyone. Please read Burroughs’ book and consult with an expert before beginning the cleanse.
Related blog: Beyonce’s Weight Loss for Dreamgirls using the Master Cleanse
Victoria Anisman-Reiner - Victoria Anisman-Reiner is a freelance writer with extensive experience in holistic health care and animal training.
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