Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 3/12/2009

Question
This winter, my boyfriend and I attempted to do the master cleanse (lemonade diet), and failed miserably.  It was just a bit too harsh for us, and I could not tolerate the salt water washes.  I was wondering if you could recommend a good detox diet for the spring (I have heard this is a optimal time to cleanse).  I am looking for something that will cleanse parasites, and the colon/GI tract in general, and just an overall good whole body detox plan.  Thanks for any advice you have to offer!  

P.S. I'm an aspiring N.D. myself, and I'll be applying to several schools at the end of this year.  I can't wait!

Answer
Hello Delia,
Thanks for your question.  You are correct that spring is the best time to cleanse the system, and there are many ways to do this.  I prefer to create an individual program for each person, as this yields the best results, but I can give you some of the principles behind the subject.  Basically, you want to ensure good elimination through all routes--skin, lung, lymph, kidney, emotions, GI, and Liver.  In order to do this, it's best to not just focus on diet, but make it a true rest.  Mild exercise, saunas, skin brushing, massage, deep breathing, homeopathy, sunlight and air exposure, colonics or enemas, hydrotherapy, rest, and sleep are just some of the options that can be done to ensure a whole body elimination.  Depending on what your needs are, you can choose what suits you best.  The diet should be hypoallergenic (eliminate sugar, caffeine, dairy, wheat, corn, soy, additives, eggs) and high fiber (fruits, veggies, whole grains, legumes, nuts) with adequate fluids and emphasis on liver-supportive foods like beets, leafy greens, onions, garlic.  Herbs or supplements can be taken with this type of plan, unlike a program like the master cleanse which does not.  Usually that is a multinutrient or antioxidant, fiber, and a lipotrophic (like milk thistle, for liver function).  For parasites, that is typically a more involved procedure, with specific timing of herbs/ supplements, that I wouldn't recommend doing that without guidance from an experienced practitioner.  If there is an ND in your area (www.naturopathic.org), that's the best person to enlist in that process.  It may a good idea anyway if you are considering ND school as well, to give you a better idea of the profession and practice of naturopathic medicine.  I'd also highly suggest going to see any school you are considering, as it's a big undertaking that you can't be over-prepared for.  All of the accredited schools (www.aanmc.org)are similar in many ways but each has unique qualities that may help you decide.  Good luck!
Dr Conner