The Test

It's agonising. It sucks the life from your bones. It makes you wish you were not in the middle of it. And therefore it is terrific.
What is it? A 2-week detox.
No, not some cabbage-chomping water-only self-denial and "cleansing" ritual. Simply two weeks of cutting out the problem areas in dieting. All stimulants, refined carbs and processed foods are excluded for 14 days.
It's good for two reasons
1. You get a chance to avoid foods that can cause inflammation, and give your body a chance to revitalise.
2. It takes guts. It's not easy to cut out sugars and refined foods. It's easier said than done to stop drinking coffee if you are a bit of a coffee addict.
Some jump right into the 2 weeks, others ease into it. I'm one of the latter. I find it very difficult to go 'cold-turkey'. I am progressively cutting things out. It's a bit slower, as I'll probably be on the detox longer, but I think it's better for me. I'm struggling just cutting a few things. I have an inner rebel, and if I push him too far, I'll end up with a muffin in one hand, a coffee in the other and a chocolate in my mouth. He will not allow himself to be pushed. I must ease him into it. When each part becomes a habit, I'll move to the next. Slow and steady wins the race.
What is a few extra days if it helps me to make a long-term change? They were onto something when they said that patience is a virtue...