Detox FAQ

What is the SimplyRaw Detox?

The SimplyRaw Detox program is a 28-day journey designed specifically to help detoxify the body, while also providing excellent nourishment through whole plant foods. The program is entirely based on fresh plant foods (no supplements). The comprehensive manual provides weekly guidelines on what foods to eat and what not to eat each week. Rather than have daily menus, we recognize that each individual has unique taste buds and preferences, and so we provide a sample daily menu and a large recipes section to choose from each day. The weekly planner also doesn’t specify food quantities, as again everyone is unique and will have different food intake requirements. SimplyRaw also provides support through weekly face-to-face meetings, and ongoing peer support through our mailing list.

How difficult is the SimplyRaw detox?

The detox program is a challenge for most people, and can feel overwhelming at first as it is definitely a learning curve. However, once you get through detox symptoms and into a routine, life becomes easier! After the 2nd week most people really start feeling the rewards of the program which is highly motivating.

Where do the meetings take place?

We currently run our program from our home, located in the Glebe, Ottawa. Upon registration we send all information, including our address to you in an email.

What kind of support can I expect?

We recognize that getting adequate support is very important for people on this program. In addition to the very extensive (100 page) manual, the detox program includes 1-hour meetings once per week for the duration of the program. The detox groups are small (approximately 15 people) to create a more open and sharing environment for all participants. We also host an email-based online peer support group (using Google Groups), to provide ongoing interaction and support for all participants (both between group members, and with SimplyRaw).

Do you provide a daily meal plan?

Rather than outlining a day-by-day plan we list sample meals to provide guidance of the types of meals that you should be eating each week; with the recipe section full of many excellent meals to try. With sample meals rather than a strict day-by-day plan you have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of different meals. As far as quantities go, each person will differ in how much they need and want to eat, based on current habits, exercise levels, etc. We suggest eating until you feel fulfilled (not over-filled!). Because the meals are very nourishing and free from harmful additives, you can’t (for the most part) eat too much! Listen to your body. The exception to this is nuts and seeds, which should be eaten in moderation.

How much preparation is involved?

We have tried to include as many simple and easy to prepare recipes as possible in the manual. Many of the meals involve blending, which is typically less time consuming than preparing cooked meals. Most people find it a bit more time consuming in the beginning of the program while learning how to do things differently. Plan in advance. Whether soaking your nuts & seeds the night before, washing produce in advance, planning ahead for a meal out, or purchasing ingredients for the next few day’s meals; thinking ahead a bit makes things a lot easier!

Do I need a juicer for your program?

A juicer isn’t necessary for the detox program. Instead, we suggest purchasing a decent blender as you will definitely put it to good use! A food processor is also useful to have but not crucial.

How should I prepare in advance for the detox?

To prepare for the program please reduce or eliminate animal products (meat, chicken, fish, dairy, and eggs), white sugar, white flour (including pasta), alcohol, and caffeinated beverages (coffee, black tea, chocolate and soft drinks).

What is the difference between the detox and a regular raw lifestyle?

Many raw foodists tend to overeat nuts, dehydrated foods, desserts, salt, oils, etc. which can overtax the body. The foods and recipes selected for this program focus on cleansing and helping to remove toxins from your body. As many of us have absorption problems, we focus on foods that are prepared in an easy to-digest form. These foods not only detoxify the body but nourish at the cellular level.

Does all the food have to be organic?

During times of cleansing, it is especially important that food be organic and one avoids pesticides, herbicides, etc. However, not everything is always available organic, and some people’s budgets do not allow for this.