So, you've finished a cleanse, and now you're likely dealing with some new challenges, like figuring out how to maintain the progress you've made.
Either way, you did it. The cleanse is over. You're feeling great. But what's next? Do you slip back into old eating habits, or do you lean towards a restrictive post-cleanse diet?
As a holistic nutritionist working with clients who want to get healthy and support their weight management goals, I can tell you with confidence that both extremes are the wrong approach to sustainable results.
What if I told you that the answer is to forget everything you know about diet culture and adopt a new belief system around food? One filled with plentiful servings of real nutrition that promote better eating habits to help you support your goals and maintain your progress.
Don't let the potential for lasting success go to waste with extreme fads. The answer to post-cleanse maintenance is the Skinny Method™. This system teaches you to truly nourish your body with thoughtfully curated juices, smoothies, and eating guidelines.
Eating After A Cleanse
In the wellness world, there is plenty of confusion when it comes to eating after a juice cleanse. In the midst of confusion, one thing is certain: restricting calories and counting fat grams is not a sustainable approach. Say goodbye to the idea of ridiculously small portions. That approach rarely works for the long term.
A more effective way to support sustainable results is by incorporating nutrient-rich whole foods into your diet. Whole foods contain an abundant amount of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that keep you healthy, give you energy, and help you feel your best.
How To Maintain Your Progress After a Cleanse
For breakfast, drink green juice and eat fresh fruits in season. Eat as many as you want until it's time for lunch.
For lunch, drink a meal replacement smoothie. Feel free to also snack on raw veggies if you get hungry before dinner.
For dinner, eat a balanced, clean dinner. This is the time to incorporate healthy whole grains like brown rice or quinoa, steamed vegetables, and legumes or high-quality animal protein.
Healthy carbohydrates can be part of a balanced diet. Our bodies need healthy carbs for energy. Feel free to enjoy plenty of fruit or potatoes.
Try to maintain a one-drink maximum when it comes to alcohol, and as soon as you get home, drink a tall glass of water or a hydrating green juice.
Live by the "80/20" rule. Eat healthy 80% of the time so you can enjoy social gatherings, holidays, and celebrations guilt-free. It's all about balance.
Meal plan when possible to help yourself stay on track.
Healthy fats are beneficial for you. Feel free to incorporate avocado, raw nuts and seeds, and cold-pressed olive oil.
When you go out to eat, always order a side of veggies. Ask for a lemon or lemon juice as a healthy dressing alternative.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of filtered water and incorporate more hydrating fluids like raw coconut water and caffeine-free herbal teas.
Consider scheduling your next cleanse. We suggest cleansing at least once every three months to support your wellness goals.
Post Cleanse Pitfalls
It's very easy to fall back into old patterns after a cleanse. Be mindful of the following:
Consider avoiding refined added sugars. These empty calories can cause blood sugar fluctuations and may contribute to cravings. Make sure your sugar intake consists of natural sugar from real food, like fruit, raw honey, and pure maple syrup.
Consider avoiding low-quality processed grains. Consider limiting foods like processed bread. Stick with cleaner gluten-free options, like organic brown rice pasta instead.
Be mindful of processed dairy products. Highly processed dairy can be difficult for some people to digest. Quality, organic dairy is generally better tolerated in small amounts.
Consider avoiding cooking in refined oils. Consider steering clear of hydrogenated oils and processed seed oils like canola, peanut, and soybean oil.
A general rule of thumb is if you can't pronounce the ingredient on the package, you probably shouldn't eat it.
Other Tips and Tricks to Stay on Track
Maintaining your progress involves more than healthy eating:
Workout. Find a method of exercise that you love. At least 30 minutes of daily movement is ideal.
Start your day with fresh, cold-pressed juice, like celery or green juice. Flooding your system with dark, leafy greens first thing in the morning is a great way to start the day.
Consider managing your stress levels. Set aside 10 minutes daily to journal or take some deep breaths.
Consider prioritizing your sleep. Getting quality rest supports your body's recovery. Aim for 7-9 hours each night.
Skinny Method-Approved Recipe for Oven Fries
These Oven Fries are a recipe from the Skinny Method Clean-Eating Guidelines. Healthy food doesn't need to be the typical, boring grilled chicken and broccoli.
Ingredients:
4-5 large potatoes
Pink Himalayan Salt to taste
Directions:
Steam potatoes for 15 minutes until soft. Allow them to cool, and cut them into wedges.
Place in the air fryer for 15 minutes or put into the oven at 200℉ for 30 minutes.
Sprinkle salt to taste while warm.
For added flavor, feel free to sprinkle your favorite herbs, like parsley or oregano.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new dietary program, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or managing a medical condition.
