Fasting and lower calorie detoxification are two approaches to supporting the body's natural detoxification process.

Fasting involves abstaining from all food and sometimes even water, ranging from a few hours to several days or more. The idea behind fasting for detoxification is that it gives the digestive system a break, allowing the body to focus on eliminating toxins and repairing damaged cells. Fasting can be beneficial for some people, but it can also be risky and should be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

On the other hand, lower calorie detoxification involves reducing calorie intake while still consuming nutrient-dense foods. The goal is to give the digestive system a break while providing the body with the necessary nutrients to support the detoxification process. This can be done by following a specific diet or program that emphasizes whole, plant-based foods, low-calorie soups, smoothies, or juices.

Both fasting and lower-calorie detoxification can effectively support the body's natural detoxification process. However, it is essential to note that both approaches can also have potential risks and should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Lower calorie detoxification may be more sustainable than fasting for some people, as it can still provide the body with the necessary nutrients while allowing the digestive system to rest.

Kitchari is a delicious and filling soup that offers a total body cleanse without strange powders or potions. Developed by Ayurvedic practitioners in India, Kitchari is a wholesome and comforting dish made with rice, split mung beans, fresh vegetables, and seasonal ingredients. It helps to cleanse and balance the gut, improve metabolism, and restore digestive and nervous system health. Kitchari is easy to digest and won't stress the body, and a week or more of Kitchari can assist in total body detoxification and healing. The soup also helps the body to reset around food and prevents overeating. Following the Kitchari cleanses for five to seven days can provide a worry-free cleansing experience. Ben Greenfield inspired me, and I gave it a try. Now I follow this protocol every year.

Kitchari recipe for 3-4 servings:
Ingredients:
½ cup split yellow mung beans
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1-inch stick of kombu (optional – I used organic, non-GMO miso instead)
4 cups homemade Kettle & Fire bone broth
2 tablespoons coconut cream
Spices:
1½ teaspoons cumin seeds
1½ teaspoons fennel seeds
1½ teaspoons coriander powder
1 tablespoon ginger root freshly minced
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
½ teaspoon fenugreek seeds
¼ teaspoon black mustard seeds
Pinch of asafoetida
Vegetables:
2 cups of any mixed vegetables.
To serve:
Fresh lime
Sea salt to taste

Instructions:
This Kitchari recipe makes 3-4 servings and includes ingredients such as split yellow mung beans, coconut oil, bone broth, coconut cream, and various spices and vegetables. Here are the steps to make this delicious dish:

1. Soak 1/2 cup of split yellow mung beans in filtered water the night before.

2. When you're ready to cook, drain and rinse the mung beans. Peel and chop up 2 cups of mixed vegetables.

3. Heat coconut oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add cumin, fennel, fenugreek, and black mustard seeds, and cook for a few minutes until the mustard seeds have popped.

4. Add the rest of the spices and stir to combine. Then add a cup of vegetable stock, mung beans, kombu or miso, coconut cream, and vegetables, followed by the rest of the stock or water.

5. Cover and boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 40 minutes. Add more water if you want a soupier consistency, and simmer longer to get a thicker stew.

6. Serve with fresh herbs, a drizzle of fresh lime juice,, and sea salt to taste.

I consume this dish within my feeding window, which is about 6-8 hours, and my calorie intake is around 500-600 per day during this protocol. My activity level is lower, such as less weight lifting, but more walking and yoga. I still do some HIITS, but the workout volume is lower.

This Kitchari recipe is a flavorful and nutrient-dense meal that's easy to make and perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. The combination of spices, vegetables, and bone broth creates a delicious and warming soup that is both filling and satisfying.