As I talked about in my previous post, breaking old habits is challenging and difficult. Many times you want to make a change, but you aren’t exactly sure where to start. That’s why I’ve written today’s blog, to give you specific ways to begin transitioning your diet and jump-start your Beauty Detox. The goal is to maintain a cleansing environment by keeping a slightly alkaline state in the body. Here’s how you can start:
1. Clean out your closet: Before you even begin to change the way you eat, you have to set yourself up for success and get rid of temptations. Go through your pantry and clear out all refined and processed starches and sugars. Nix dairy, deli meats, soda, sugar, table salt, canned vegetables, and dusty old spices. In the future, look for spices that say on their label that they are “non-irradiated.” As a general guideline, you want to remove anything containing artificial preservatives, agave, artificial sweeteners or high fructose corn syrup. Get rid of cereals like Special K (On a side note, the reason those cereals are crispy is because of a browning phenomenon called the Maillard reactions. These create aging free radicals in the body) which contain wheat, gluten and additives and are low-grade foods. I provide a grocery list in my book The Beauty Detox Solution.
A note on caffeine: Many of you are accustomed to your daily cup of coffee/tea to jump-start your day and give you an extra boost of clarity and energy. But that is the same thing as relying on a drug because caffeine is a drug. Caffeine is taxing on your internal organs and your hormone processing systems. You must try to create a balanced lifestyle without relying on food drugs. If you are a habitual caffeine drinker, try to get your consumption down to one cup a day and eventually (ideally) cut it out completely. If you are seeking healthier alternatives, try caffeine free herbal teas, rooibos tea, which is full of antioxidants or white tea (lower caffeine content).
2. Grocery Shopping: The most positive way to reach your goals is by shopping responsibly. Your body is your temple! The act of eating and transforming those molecules into your own is a sacred exchange. Each and every thing that you put on and in your body has an effect on your vitality, health and beauty. Instead of iodized table salt, try out a high-quality sea salt such as Celtic or Himalayan. And instead of Splenda or sugar, try xylitol or stevia. At first, you want to strive to maximize alkaline foods (greens, ripe fruits, veggies) and minimize acidic foods (caffeine, processed foods, dairy). Be sure to stock up on millet bread, starchy vegetables (sweet potatoes, yams), quinoa and avoid refined and over processed starches like white rice or wheat. Remember to only purchase fruits in season and buy local and organic when possible. (For a more complete grocery shopping list, check out the appendix of The Beauty Detox Solution).
3. Drink more water: Cut out the soda (yes, even diet varieties). It has absolutely no nutritional value and is loaded with empty calories. Additionally, soda is extremely acidic and will therefore contribute to premature aging, acne and dark under-eye circles. It will deplete our body of precious essential minerals that are important for our vitality. Our body is made up of 70% water! Water helps improve blood flow, promotes the metabolism and activates the bacterial enzymes and flora in the intestine, which helps promote the excretion of toxins and waste.
Start each day with a tall glass of water with lemon. This will help jump-start your body in the morning and contribute to more energy throughout the day. Try not to drink your water during meals because it delays the digestion process. Instead I drink a tall glass before and usually after meals. Be sure to check out more details on water consumption in The Beauty Detox Solution.
4. Go Green: Get thee to the farmer’s market! Add greens to the start of every lunch and dinner meal for healthy plant minerals and easy absorption. I encourage you to practice variety with your greens. Add veggies, avocado, and switch up the type of lettuce and kale to keep the textures fun and enticing, and to ensure a wide variety of mineral absorption. For delicious and creative salad dressing try some of my personal favorites, Kim’s classic dressing, Sweet basil-lime dressing or my Oil-Free, No-Balsamic Italian Vinaigrette dressing.
5. Mold meals from smallest to largest: I am a fierce believer that it is not just what we eat that matters, but the order in which we eat our food. We want to understand the nutrients and absorption qualities of the foods we are consuming so that we can minimize gas, bloating and fermentation. Begin to order your meals from lightest to heaviest. For example, start your day out with some fruit accompanied with a Glowing Green Smoothies. For lunch, enjoy a full green salad with lots of veggies and for dinner, have a proper sit-down meal at least 3 (preferably 4) hours before you go to bed. This is the last meal before our bodies have 12+ hours plus to digest and move it through our bodies so this is the time to add cooked food, animal protein and a wide variety of veggies. If you worked in a field all day and went to bed at 7 pm, it might be a different story, but this is the best way to maximize the digestive potential of the average person in the Western world who works and is active during the day, and the end of the day is for relaxing and socializing.
Once you get these basics down, you are sure to have a strong foundation on which to continue your detox and healthy choices. It is very important that you realize that you don’t have to immediately adopt all of the recommendations that I make in The Beauty Detox Solution all at once. When you make drastic switches in your diet very quickly, your body is vulnerable to unpleasant side effects from irresponsible cleansing. The people who do drastic cleanses tend to flip flop right back to where they started, and they’re really no better off. Transition into your new lifestyle, so it sticks. Most important of all, be gentle with yourself! If you get off track sometimes, I know how to get right back on. And now you do too.
Great post! Over the past year I’ve been transition my diet based on your blog entries and have never felt better! I can’t wait until I receive your book!
I have a question about supplements though. Do you take any supplements daily? I take liquid chlorophyll, spirulina, and chlorella. Would you suggest any whole food supplements for optimal health?
Kim,
Thank you for this article. I find myself ready to start the beauty detox until I realize there is nothing I can eat? Growing up in a typical meat & potatoes family it is hard for me to change my thinking. It also doesn’t help that I am often short on time and cash so the foods which are readily available and take little time to prepare are what I turn to. I have never been a big salad girl because I love hot food. I am trying to make the transition and I’ve read your book but after the Glowing Green Smoothie it is difficult for me to start your plan. Any additional suggestions for how to really make the transition?
How do you feel about club soda, if it’s natural and sodium free?
Hi, Kim!! I’ve finished your book few days ago and I’m implementing many changes into my lifestyle (like these you’ve listed today)! I’ve always eaten healthy, but I realized they were awfully combined (tuna salad + gf crackers + coconut water??). I’m still struggling with many IBS issues, but hopefully I’ll get better.
I just had a question. I used to be a vegetarian but what stopped me was the whole B12 issue. What are your thoughts on it – that veg’ns should supplement this nutrient? Also, I have hard time getting enough protein…or should I just not care about it??
Thanks!!!
p.s. Do you know any remedies (like Ayurveda oil pulling) for Gum Recession?
Hi Stephanie,
Just saw your post and thought I would tell you what I’ve learned since becoming vegan… You can take a sublingual, methyl B12 supplement. Country Life brand at Whole Foods makes a great one! Also, you do not need to worry about protein. You can get plenty of protein from eating a variety of greens and it is better for you than animal protein– which is not only acidic but promotes cancer and heart disease!! If you are interested in the research behind it, check out Dr. T Colin Campbell’s book The China Study or go to http://www.tcolincampbell.org.
Hi Kimberly!!
I am a huge fan of your book. I have been trying to get through the whole thing but keep giving my copies away :) There is so much beneficial information that has opened my eyes to a new way of eating, so I want to thank you for that!
I have a question about fasting. What would you recommend during the month of Ramadan? (fasting from sunrise to sunset, no food or water). I want to make sure I am still getting enough nutrients to keep my body nourished and hydrated throughout the day.
Again, thanks so so much for sharing your knowledge!!
Jennifer
Thanks, Kimberly! I’ve read your book cover to cover and am green smoothie obsessed. I’ve shared this post with many of my reluctant friends in hopes that it shows them how easy it is to switch over.
Hi Kimberly!
Thank you so much for all this great advice. I accidentally discovered your blog a little more than a week ago and have started drinking the Glowing Green Smoothie ever since.
I finally bought the book today and I can’t wait to discover more of your amazing secrets.
After reading your blog, I found that you suggested hemp milk and today I actually found hemp granola with flax seeds and I was wondering if you would suggest eating that. I tried it and really liked it but it is sweet and I don’t know if it is a good idea.
Thank you!
Caro
Hi, Kimberly! I really enjoy reading your blog and loved your book. I read a recipe recently that called for coconut palm sugar; how do you feel about that as a sweetener? How about brown rice syrup? Thanks:)
Hey Kim! I’ve read your book and LOVE it!
I have 2 questions:
1) Can I add a banana to the Rainforest Smoothie? I really like the taste it adds, but am not sure about fruit + avocado.
2) I love dried figs, but am not sure where they fit in. Can they be dessert?
Thanks!
Jessica
Avocado is a fruit actually! I just found that out recently! It should be okay to mix these two! I do when I make my fruit smoothies in the morning! It adds a creamy texture and is extremely mild in flavor so it won’t dominate the entire smoothie taste!
Hi Anyssa,
Thanks for your reply! I’ve been wondering about this for a while, because I really like adding the banana to the Rainforest Smoothie. It sweetens it without stevia and adds more creaminess!
Thanks,
Jessica
hey Kim!
love your book and follow your blog on a daily basis. because of you I have become more balanced in body and mind, found clarity and energy, and i actually feel younger than ever! so awesome!!
2 questions:
*your thoughts on ph balanced water either bottled or home filtration systems?
* is one cup of yerba mate tea per day too much caffeine? (kinda feel better, more with it, when i have a cup in morning after hot lemon water)
;)thanks! kim
Hi Kim!
Thanks for the inspiring blog!LOVE your book and blog!
Can you please tell me what is the best wat to get in calcium if you dont eat dairy? Also B12?
Really worried about that, but otherwise I love your way of eating!
Thanks!
Hello Kim, I need help! I have read the book and it really changed how I think in term of proper nutrition and food pairing. I enjoy green smoothie but as much as I try to enjoy the green salad, I’ve to say raw salad is really not my thing as I can’t stomach it.
My question is, can I have fruits for lunch instead then? Or can you advise a better Lunch option for me according to the law of your book. I am worried that if I drink green smoothie for Breakfast and eat fruits for Lunch, I will be consuming too much sugar. Thank you and I hope to hear from your reply soon. =)
Kim,
I have recently discovered you after seeing you guest on a tv show discussing bloating foods. I have purchased your book and have been talking about you non stop! I am currently nine months pregnant and started to make changes in the order in which I eat my foods. I absolutely love your positive attitude! The fact that you continuously remind us that its “most of the time” that counts, which means if I mess up I don’t feel so guilty and quit-waking up each morning is a fresh start! I plan on following the program completely after the baby is born and my husband has been on board and enjoying the information as well!
Thank you, you have been life changing!!
Hi Kimberly
Do you have any tips for natural teeth whitening?
Sandra
I think these are great tips!
What do you think about wheatgrass?
I want to eat more greens in my diet but I can’t get them organic. should i still eat as much as you recomend? how should i wash them?
Hi love,
I’m back, bugging you again! Have I mentioned I love your book and love your blog?! ;)
Question for you… I know everyone is different, but what are some of the first signs that things w/ the BDS are working as planned? I feel my mind is “sharper,” and hubby and I have lost a few lbs. It is at least a few months until your hair, skin, dark circles, etc start to look better, right?
I’m really hoping to have improved monthlies, they are horribly painful, etc. I recently had surgery for removing endometriosis and the dr also removed an endometrioma almost as big as my uterus from my ovary. So I am trying EVERYTHING I can to avoid another surgery, because endo so easily returns.
Thank you~
Jaime xo
Thanks, Kimberly! I’ve read your book cover to cover but I have a question about eating celery at mornings. I hate celery and can you give me the other subsitute for celery for mornings? Also, I find the millet bread expensive and small loaf. Can this bread be substituted for others?
Thanks,
Marla
Him Kimberly! Great post, as always. I am a long term vegan and have avoided sugar, soy, and gluten for the past year but the ONLY problem I have is sticking to the order of foods. I just love a solid lunch around 2pm, followed by a strong Bikram or gym workout around 6. After that, I am too tired from the long day to even think about a sit down dinner- I’d rather just have a Rainforest smoothie- is that ok to do? Many thanks!!
Hey Kim,
Quick question- How much time should I leave between drinking the hot water with lemon and my morning GGS? I’ve been skipping the water with lemon since I don’t have too much time in the morning but never really figured out the time difference needed between the two.
Thanks!
Hi Kim!
I’ve read my copy of the beauty detox and loved it :) as you’ve already covered, I have been very inclined to believe in eating 5-6 small meals per day, including protein and either a fibrous or starchy complex carbohydrate at each meal. I sincerely love the information that you’ve shared. I have always wanted to rely on a plant-based diet for the numerous amount of benefits, however I’ve been under the impression that a certain amount of protein is needed to simply maintain the muscle mass that we already have, let alone increasing it. (I am not super muscular, but I like weight training, running, and just being active.) I didn’t want to consume the previously believed protein intake in nuts/seeds due to the amount of fat I would also be consuming, and I now know that beans are mother natures uh-oh in terms of beauty food pairing :) I loved the article on chia seeds, it sounds like a great source of energy, as I have yet to try them. I know that you’re active and toned, and it’s definitely an inspiration to know it’s possible to maintain without all of the protein we are constantly being told is a necessity!! One thing I have struggled with (as I’m in the beginning stages) is feeling hungry throughout the day, as I’m used to grazing on my smaller meals. I suppose it will pass, along with other detox symptoms. I have always loved the idea of living a vegan lifestyle, as I love veggies/greens, the health benefits, the positive vibes of treading lightly on the earth, and so much more. I’m excited to delve deeper into the knowledge you provide, I love your blog/Facebook updates! Thank you for the knowledge kimberly! It’s empowering.
xo :)
Nicole
A note on cereal..I recently saw a video which detailed the process of finding IRON SHAVINGS in cereal, by using HOME PRODUCTS like a magnet, paper bag. So, people, now you know iron shavings are in CEREAL. I’d link the video but I don’t think that’s allowed. Anyway, Kimberly, I really suggest you watch the video (not that you don’t know to avoid cereal already), but to link it to your audience and whatnot. I’m pretty sure you’d be able to google it and find it on youtube.
Thanks for another great post!
Hi Kimberly!
I have read your book and have been transitioning for about a month now. Thank you for making the book so informational and complete… you have actual support backing up all of the theories of your diet/lifestyle. I do have a few questions/comments and would greatly appreciate some answers! Thank you!
– Love the glowing green smoothie, I freeze it weekly and drink it every day, however I need a little variation… could you recommend some changes I could work into the smoothie to change the taste and not get bored?
– I also have been a lover of coconuts! I recently discovered a website that has many gluten free recipes that call for coconut flour. I have been using this flour along with Stevia to bake sweets (which I cannot live without!) does this flour follow the detox diet?
– just a friendly comment that while I LOVE using Xylitol for sugar replacement, I think readers should be aware that it is extremely deadly to dogs, even in very small doses. I personally know over half a dozen people who’s dogs died from eating food or chewing gum that contained it. You seem like such a nature lover I figured you would want to keep our furry friends safe and their loving owner happy :)
Thank you for all that you do to keep your readers healthy!
Hi Kim,
I have been reading your blogs and I find them very informative and interesting.
I have been taught that it is best to eat Largest to Smallest throughout the day, however your approach is the exact opposite.
I can see where your approach is coming from, as I could imagine it would be hard for the digestive system to digest a sudden large amount of food after a 12hour fast,
however could you please explain it to me in more detail?
Thank you Kim (:
With love and good health
Hannah xxx
Hello Hannah, Im not Kim, but felt like I wanted to comment. I would think also that it’s best to have the most calories in the beginning of your day, while you’re out to work or school, and not at the end of the day, while most of us go vegetating on the couch or just relax. Of course in the morning you could start carefully, like I do. I begin with a glass of water, 30min later some fruit or fruit-smoothie. After an hour or more, I have some grains/bread/raw nuts, or something that fills me up like that. For lunch I have a regular, not too heavy lunch. Dinner is something light, like soup, salad, green smoothies. I have not been doing this for months, yet, so I’m still learning how my body will like this :-)
Hi Kim,
I just finished your book and am having an extremely hard time transitioning. One day I do great, and the next day I go completely backwards. One reason I really want to succeed at your program in your book is to clear up my skin and maybe (if I’m lucky) reduce my acne scars. Is there are any absolute musts that you think I should implement right away if I want to see an improvement. I have already cut out dairy, and am trying to eliminate wheat and gluten. Also I am looking at purchasing Zinc to help with my skin!
Thank you for all the life changing wisdom you have provided in your book! I have made all my best friends and my family buy a copy!
Hello –
I’m about mid-way through your book. Just read through the Blossoming Beauty phase and it’s meal plan ideas.
I love meats and breads… together and separate… So this whole concept will REALLY be a challenge for me but I want to give it a go:
I want to try your first phase and while it allows me to have some chicken and other animal proteins it leaves me very curious about being able to get my chicken flavor fix by making a soup with chicken broth and veggies… basically chicken noodle without the chunks of chicken meat. Will this be a huge set-back? Granted, canned chicken broth has high amounts of sodium… but just looking for ideas to get the flavor I love without all the set-backs, or “sludge” set-backs.
Any ideas?
Thank you.
Hi Kim…in the process of reading your book, as recommended by my daughter…Kim. :) I assume there is no agle limit for using your program? (I’m 68) I live in Alaska and cannot always get organic produce and fruit. Assume also I can use whatever I can get? I know this is a lot of assuming. If the produce and fruit are not “organic” will it slow down the prosess of detox?
Thank you. Your book is very enlightening and an eye opener for me.
I’m commenting to let you be aware of of the cool encounter my wife’s princess enjoyed checking your blog. She picked up lots of pieces, not to mention how it is like to have an excellent helping mindset to get men and women with no trouble know precisely a variety of impossible subject matter. You really surpassed my expected results. Thank you for presenting these invaluable, healthy, educational and unique thoughts on your topic to Janet.
Thanks Frank, that is great!
I do believe all the ideas you have offered on your post. They are very convincing and will definitely work. Still, the posts are very quick for newbies. May you please lengthen them a bit from subsequent time? Thank you for the post.
I too read the book cover to cover. I came here for more insight. I’m excited to see the blogs as they are even more enlightening. I do hope Kimberly can find some time to read and answer some of these questions on this one. Particularily for me is the question about the coconut flour. There were alot of great questions.
Thank you Kimberly
Omg! Superbly wonderful article. I’m just bookmarking the particular web site immediately. Thanks!