Tips on the Lemonade Cleanse

The lemonade cleanse, also known as the Master Cleanse, was started by Stanley Burroughs. The purpose of the cleanse is to rid your body of toxins and pollutants and promote general health. It can be very challenging to stick with it and should be followed strictly for three to 10 days. The recipe consists of a combination of purified water, Grade B organic maple syrup, organic lemons, organic cayenne pepper and sea salt. As with any diet, consult a physician before starting it to avoid any health risks.

Mentally Prepare

• The body is so conditioned to eating food that it's a good idea to mentally prepare yourself at least three days before the start of the cleanse. Mark on your calendar the day you plan to start and write "preparation days" on the three days before the start date. Prior to starting, write down all the benefits you will get from the cleanse, including weight loss, renewed energy and a clean system.

Plan Activities

• When feelings of hunger start setting in, it can be difficult to discipline yourself. Plan activities in advance to keep yourself busy so that you don't start thinking about eating. Some ideas are: light exercise, such as going for a walk; watching movies; going to a bookstore; or scheduling a massage. Don't engage in strenuous exercise because you want to conserve your energy. If you go out with friends, be sure it's an activity that will keep your mind off of food.

Clean House

• It's too tempting to have food around, so clean out those cabinets. Rid your kitchen of all temptation, including anything that is in the refrigerator that might tempt you. After a few days, your cravings will be difficult to fight off and it will only benefit you if you have nothing in the house that can weaken your resolve. If you don't want to waste food, offer it to neighbors or donate it to a homeless shelter.

Follow the Directions

• If you want all of the benefits from the lemonade cleanse, the best results will come from following the directions without skipping anything. Some people might think that because they don't like the cayenne pepper or the syrup that they can leave it out. A laxative tea and salt flush are involved in the cleanse. When doing a cleanse, adverse health effects can result if it is not followed properly.