Squeaky Clean

Three cheers for my sister-in-law Cara who just finished 21 days (plus seven "re-entry" days) on The Clean Program by Dr. Alexander Junger.  Some of the ailments that prompted Cara to start the cleanse were achy joints, dry skin and an irritated gut.  In addition to all that, a two month regime of pain medication following surgery on her shoulder left Cara feeling "pretty toxic."  Craving a change, she set out to get her body back to a place where it could "heal and detox itself with the proper nutrition from a balanced diet."  

After 21 days following the Clean diet, not only did Cara's chronic acid reflux symptoms disappear, but she lost some weight ("When your underwear fit looser, you know you've seen a shift in weight.") and she noticed an increase in her muscle strength.  Cara's before and after photos also showed her progress.  While she is a stunning(!) girl to begin with, by day 21 Cara had a positively goddess like glow.

"I can honestly say this is the best thing I've done for my health and well-being ever," Cara says.  "I feel so great and so healthy and have a new commitment to maintaining a healthy program of diet and exercise. It feels too good to let it slip away. If you are thinking of doing a cleanse or just something better for your body, give this a try. I am a devotee for sure!"

What do we think, Veggies??? Anyone up for a fall detox??? 
Even if you are not, here is a delicious soup recipe that Cara created while on the cleanse.  It seems so hearty and filling.  Perfect for a crisp fall evening…

-♥ J :)

Cara's Clean Cannelini Bean Soup
INGREDIENTS:
-1 can cannelini beans
-2 tbsp coconut milk plain yogurt
-1-2 cups organic chicken, vegetable or mushroom broth (add enough to create desired consistency)
-1 tsp cumin
-1/2 tsp onion powder
-1/2 tsp garlic powder
-1/2 tsp salt (or dulse)
-1 tsp lemon thyme
-1 scoop of pea protein powder (optional)

PREPARATIONS:
1. Puree in blender.
2. Heat slightly or go cold, whichever you prefer.