I received my first engagement present two weeks ago: a Breville Juice Fountain Compact. I would like to lose about 15-20 pounds before my wedding and the gifter, my amazing friend Natalie, wanted to give me a little boost. Thank God for her! I’ve been wanting to try a juice cleanse for (literally) years, but I didn’t have a juicer and couldn’t afford any of the trendy juice cleanses (like Blueprint Cleanse).
Yesterday, I went to a new global market in my neighborhood and stocked up on as much fresh produce as I could find. I got apples, lemons, limes, carrots, kale, spinach, swiss chard, pears. The list goes on. And all for $64! I could barely squeeze it all into the fridge (as you can see above). But when I got home, of course, I was overwhelmed with where to start. Should I have a strictly green juice for breakfast, as opposed to a fruit juice? Can I have a light meal with it or is the juice my meal? After reading a few books and articles, I’ve formed what I think is the best plan for me. I’ll ease my way into juicing over the next week and then start a full blown juice cleanse next Monday. For my first cleanse, I’ll do 3 days and will (hopefully) create a monthly cleanse habit.
I’ve also decided to skip the traditional diet or weight-loss plan. Instead, I have just a few simple rules. 1). Do some form of exercise 6 days a week. I’m going to my first barre class tonight and I’m going to start a new running plan this weekend. 2). Try to eat at least 2 green salads per day. 3). Cut out all candy and sugar and only eat sweets when I make them myself…from scratch. If I tell myself to give up all sweets, it will never last. Making them from scratch will cut down the amount of times I indulge and will also allow me to control the ingredients. 4). Drink as much water (and green/herbal tea) as I can each day. 5). Drink at least one whole juice (or smoothie) per day, but aim for two.
Today is the beginning of a lifelong journey. And the next 14 months (I’m getting married in March 2014) is phase one. I’m so excited to see how my body reacts to the changes, but not only on the outside. I’m excited to feel that detoxification and clarity people rave about after doing a juice cleanse or adding whole juices to their diet. Because I’m still feeling bloated from the holidays! I’ll be sure to post my favorite recipes once I get a chance to try them all. And if any of you have any recipes, please let me know!
