What’s the difference between a detox and a cleanse?

Up until about three weeks ago, I couldn’t have told you the difference between a detox and a cleanse. They’re used interchangeably, and it turns out there are no standards in the medical or dietary communities defining exactly what these terms mean.

Very broadly speaking, a cleanse is a purification process meant to support the body’s detoxifying organs (liver, kidneys) and – ahem – clearing the gastrointestinal tract by means of a liquids-only diet. Cleanses are typically done for a very limited period of time, 3-5 days being standard.

A detox, on the other hand, is meant to rid the body of substances that are causing a range of negative symptoms. Those substances can be environmental, dietary or medicinal. Detoxes can last much longer.

Which brings me to why I asked the question and why that question has significance for me.

I’m in the midst of a rather grueling detox. Mine is medically supervised and will last approximately six weeks.

Because detoxes of this nature are serious business, I wanted to do it with a doctor’s guidance. If you’ve ever thought about doing a detox or a cleanse, listen in to the podcast and I’ll bring you up to speed on how mine is going. I’m at the halfway point, so I don’t have all my answers yet, but I’m confident that I’ll get there.

In the meantime, there’s a whole lot going on around my house, as I’m sure there is around yours as well. We’re all gearing up for Thanksgiving and we’ll be decking the halls not long after that!

While you have a few quiet moments, read a few of the blogs from this week or listen to the podcast. Maybe try one of the recipes below or from my Thanksgiving Recipes page on Pinterest.

After you’ve listened to the podcast, if you still have questions about my detox, send me an email. I always want to help!

Have a happy, healthy week!

– Marilyn

New this week

Podcast: Detox Demystified	Tip the workout balance in your favor: Guest Blog by Trainer Taryn
Style & Substance: Meet Audrey	The skinny on condiments
My big, fat good karma	Care packages from home
Recipe: Winter Slaw	Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower and Mushroom Quiche with Quinoa Crust