4-Week Jumpstart Options

The Eat Live Thrive Diet is an “Adventure”because it’s an opportunity for you to make some important discoveries about your body and health. It is designed to help you:

  • Balance your blood sugar
  • Cleanse your body of toxins
  • Reboot yor metabolism for weight loss
  • Decrease your cravings
  • Alert you to food sensitivities

3 LEVELS TO CHOOSE FROM

We understand that life can be busy and complicated. We also recognize there are emotional and logistic challenges that may hamper your ability to participate at the highest level. Therefore, we’ve provided three different options for the Elimination Phase to suit your current needs. If you don’t start at Level 3 (the highest), we recommend that you do move toward that level at some point in the future so that you experience the most dramatic benefits possible.

Make the Program Work for You

Take your time and review all three levels by reading through the guidelines below before deciding. You may even design your own modification and combine levels. For example, you may want to use some of the specific detoxification practices from Level Three even though you’re choosing foods from Level One.

ELIMINATION DIET WITH  DETOX/CLEANSE COMPONENT Our Eat Live Thrive Diet can be considered as an elimination diet because we remove almost all the foods that cause allergies, sensitivities, and inflammation in many people. By removing them from your diet for between 14 – 28 days and reintroducing one at a time, you may discover some are more troublesome for you than others. Use this program as a science experiment of sorts to learn what your body is trying to tell you – such as what foods to eliminate permanently from your diet and which to eat more regularly.  You can choose to do Level 3 and add the detox/cleanse component at any time.

Choose The Right Level For You

Guidelines For Your Elimination Levels 1-3

Level 1 – Keep It Simple

This level is designed for the busy, overwhelmed, discouraged or apprehensive woman who needs a very simple and minimally restrictive starting point. In this level, we focus on eliminating the top two foods that are the main culprits at the core of America’s obesity epidemic – sugar and grains. So, the bottom line is this: If you eliminate these foods – you will realize substantial results!

Recommendations

This is a simple plan eliminating only sugar and grains. You will see the list of eliminated foods is rather short. We’ve also included a list of “preferred” foods in various categories. As you continue your nutrition journey, adding healthier options will enhance your overall health, longevity, and outward beauty.

Foods To Eliminate – Level 1

  • Sugar – And All Foods Containing Processed Sugar *
  • All Grains & Grain Flours To Include:
    • Wheat
    • Oats
    • Rice
    • Corn
    • Buckwheat
    • Barley
    • Rye
    • Couscous (not a grain but many think it is)

*One Tablespoon of raw, organic honey or pure maple syrup is allowed each day and best enjoyed in our grain-free recipes

Want Better Results On Level 1 ?

Additionally Eliminate:

  • Artificial Sweeteners
  • Potatoes, white ( including french fries and potato chips)*
  • Beer
  • Wine
  • Spirits
  • Soda **

* sweet potatoes in moderation are ok  –  1/2 cup 2 – 3 times per week.

** see our cranberry or lemonade spritzer as an alternative

Level 2 – Fast Track

This level is designed for the woman who is ready to commit to eliminating a more diverse group of troublesome foods and discover which ones are not working for her body. We have also eliminated foods such as vegetable oils and artificial sweeteners, cold cuts and packaged foods with preservatives that are known to cause disease or health issues when consumed on a regular basis. They also inhibit weight loss.

There is another wonderful benefit that results from this level of food elimination. By giving the body a rest from problem foods and also decreasing the digestive load – you will realize some natural detoxification. By drinking the recommended amounts of water and sticking as close as you can to the Level 2 elimination – you will likely discover some great benefits such as improved digestion, increased energy, mental clarity, better sleep, and faster weight loss as your cells release toxic fat.

Plan for success

With a bit of planning and the right foods on hand, you will be amazed at how easy this can be. Taking the time to review the recipes and working them into your plan makes a huge difference in the quality of your experience because they satisfy many of the cravings you may have for the eliminated foods.

Foods To Eliminate – Level 2

(Same as Level 1)

  • Sugar – And All Foods Containing Processed Sugar *
  • All Grains & Grain Flours To Include:
    • Wheat
    • Oats
    • Rice
    • Corn
    • Buckwheat
    • Barley
    • Rye
    • Couscous (not a grain but many think it is)

(Additional elimination for Level 2)

  • Beans and Legumes
  • Dairy
  • Nuts

*One Tablespoon of raw, organic honey or pure maple syrup is allowed each day and best enjoyed in our grain-free recipes

Additional Foods To Eliminate (for Health Purposes)

  • Artificial Sweeteners of all kinds
  • Cold cuts and Cured meats
  • Foods packaged with additives and preservatives
  • Vegetable Oils (except for olive oil and avocado oil)

Want Better Results On Level 2 ?

Additionally Eliminate:

  • Potatoes, white ( including french fries and potato chips) *
  • Beer
  • Wine
  • Spirits

* sweet potatoes in moderation are ok  –  1/2 cup 2 – 3 times per week.

Level 3 – Detox + Fast Track

Are you ready to get the maximum results possible in the next 4 weeks?  Do you want to not only jumpstart your weight loss, but also improve your overall health by cleansing your body of toxins? If your answer is “Yes!” then Level 3 is for you.

In this level, you will eliminate eggs, soy, caffeine, white potatoes and alcohol, in  addition to all the eliminated foods in Level 2.  Additionally, you will add a few supplements and drinks that will promote gentle detoxification.

Foods To Eliminate – Level 3

(Same as Level 2)

  • Sugar – And All Foods Containing Processed Sugar *
  • All Grains & Grain Flours To Include:
    • Wheat
    • Oats
    • Rice
    • Corn
    • Buckwheat
    • Barley
    • Rye
    • Couscous (not a grain but many think it is)
  • Beans and Legumes
  • Dairy
  • Nuts

*One Tablespoon of raw, organic honey or pure maple syrup is allowed each day and best enjoyed in our grain-free recipes

(Additional elimination for Level 3)

  • Eggs (last 4 days only)***
  • Soy
  • Coffee and caffeinated beverages
  • Potatoes, white **
  • Shellfish
  • Cold cuts and cured meats
  • Additives and preservatives
  • Artificial Sweeteners
  • Alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, spirits)
  • Vegetable Oils (except for olive oil and avocado oil)

** sweet potatoes in moderation are ok  –  1/2 cup 2 – 3 times per week.

***eggs can be a hidden sensitivity for some women, yet they are also one of the best sources of protein.  Therefore, we eliminate them only for the last 4 days of Level 3 so you can enjoy many of our grain-free and other recipes.  However, if you suspect a sensitivity, we recommend you eliminate eggs from the beginning.

Gentle Detoxification

The addition of a gentle detoxification protocol is added to the elimination of foods.  Keep in mind that you are receiving a mild cleansing benefit just by the change in your diet. Adding the cleansing components adds additional support to your health and weight loss journey

Our ELT detox/cleansing component is very gentle yet effective.  But you don’t need to worry that it will be sending you to the bathroom all day long. It won’t! Listed below are the additional supplements and drinks to support this gentle cleanse. They are optional. You can choose to implement all of them, some of them, or none at all. Don’t let skipping one or two of the components to the cleanse keep you from utilizing the others.  Do your best to follow all of the protocol, but give yourself permission to modify if you must.

 

Cleansing Components in order of importance:

  1. ELT Cleansing Drink
  2. Cranberry Drink
  3. Magnesium Oxide
  4. Fiber Supplement
  5. Other Supplements
  6. Body Brushing

#1: The Importance of the ELT Cleansing Drink

This is an important element that promotes detoxification throughout your body – so don’t skip this step! This drink combines several ingredients that support detoxification and weight loss. The benefit of each ingredient is described in the list below.

Raw apple cider vinegar is known for boosting the metabolism. The acetic acid helps grow good bacteria (known as probiotic) in your gut. This probiotic helps with the detoxification of your colon. It also aids in nutrient absorption. Studies have also shown that taking one to two tablespoons before a meal can helps keep blood sugar from spiking. It also helps with satiety.

Fresh lemon juice aids in the digestive process and helps flush out toxins. The pectin fiber in lemons helps keep you full and aids in weight loss. The vitamin C in lemon juice supports immunity. Lemons also have an alkalinizing effect that brings balance to your body’s pH level.

Cinnamon improves insulin sensitivity, lowers blood pressure, and supports balanced blood sugar levels. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Ginger is highly anti-inflammatory and also aids in digestion and detoxification

ELT Cleansing Drink Recipe: Ingredients:

  • Raw Apple Cider Vinegar – 1 cup
  • Fresh Lemon Juice – 1 cup
  • Cinnamon – 2 teaspoons
  • Ground Ginger – 1.5 teaspoons
  • Stevia, liquid monk fruit extract or pure monk fruit extract to taste

Directions: Mix ingredients in a large jar or shaker bottle and shake well. Add 2 tablespoons of the mixture to 8-12 ounces of hot or cold water. Or drink an oz straight if you can tolerate it and chase with water.  Sweeten more with stevia if needed. (Makes 16 servings)

Drink 5-10 minutes before meals. Though acidic in the mouth, this drink creates an alkaline environment in the body. Rinse your mouth with water after each dose to prevent damaging tooth enamel when taken frequently.

#2: Cranberry Drink

Pure cranberry juice contains several organic acids that have an emulsifying effect on stubborn fat deposits. It also helps to cleanse toxic waste from the lymphatic system.

Directions:

Dilute 2-4 ounces of pure unsweetened cranberry juice with 4-8 ounces of water. (We like RW Knudsen brand)  Drink at least once per day. It diminishes water retention, balances blood sugar, helps break down cellulite, and assists your liver and lymph with the detoxification process.

Tastier Option: Mix the cranberry with 4-8 ounces of sparkling water over ice and add stevia sweetener to taste. It becomes a delicious drink you can enjoy regularly.

#3: Magnesium

A natural laxative, magnesium also helps regulate blood sugar levels, and bone and teeth formation, reduces muscle cramps, and promotes relaxation and sleep. Take 200-400 mg. before bedtime with water. This will enhance elimination. As mentioned, the goal is to have bowel movements three times per day. You can use any type of magnesium (citrate, oxide, chloride, glycinate, etc.)

#4: Fiber Supplement 

Choose one of the fiber supplements from the list below. Take this every night before bed. You may opt for capsules or powder form. Always drink 10-12 ounces of water with your supplement or as a chaser whether you use capsules or powder. Otherwise, the increase in fiber without liquid can constipate. Doses will vary depending on your brand. Start with the lowest dose recommended on the supplement and 1/2 or 1/4  that to start and work up from there if needed. The objective is to have regular bowel movements each day – ideally, two to three times per day.

  • Acacia Fiber
  • Apple Pectin
  • Chia Seeds
  • Ground Flax Seed
  • Psyllium Husk or Powder *

*We do not recommend psyllium for those prone to constipation. Note: Everyone responds differently to fiber supplements. You may want to test one or more of these a day or two before you begin your program.

#5: Other Supplements:

Herbal Tea with Dandelion Root:  This tea helps facilitate the movement of toxins through your bile/digestive tract. A good brand is Traditional Medicinals EveryDay Detox. Vitamin C: Additional Vitamin C helps with clearing the blood of toxins. The ideal dose is 2000mg-3000mg /day. Smooth Move Tea: This herbal natural laxative tea works well for most people experiencing minor constipation. Start with one – 8-ounce cup lightly brewed. Multi-Vitamin: choose one that contains B vitamins and key minerals such as selenium and zinc.  These ingredients help boost the enzymatic reactions for detoxification Note: Many of the supplements and items needed for the detox /cleanse component may be available at your local grocery or health food store. For those who cannot find it locally, we’ve included a list of our favorite brands with direct online links in the Resource Section of this website.

#6. Body Brushing

Skin Brushing is a health practice that stimulates the lymphatic system to eliminate cellular waste. It increases circulation, improves kidney function, relieves stress, sheds dead skin cells, and can help reduce the appearance of cellulite. Using a dry, natural brush designed for this purpose, brush

Activities to Enhance Detoxification:

The activities listed below increase circulation and stimulate the excretion of toxins through your lymphatic system.

  • Box Breathing
  • Chewing well and eating slowly
  • Daily light exercise
  • Deep Breathing
  • Drinking lots of water
  • Epsom Salt bath (1-2 cups)
  • Message
  • Sauna

Cleansing/Detox Symptoms

There is a chance that while your body is cleansing itself of toxins, you might experience some mild cleansing symptoms. These are usually short-lived for maybe a day or 2 and then disappear.

Cleansing/Detox symptoms are actually a sign that toxins are moving out of your body at a rapid rate.  This is a good thing, however, sometimes it can make you not feel so great for a day or two.  Common symptoms include headache, body aches, flu-like symptoms, brain fog, constipation or loose stool, gas and bloating, body odor, skin breakouts, light-headedness, congestion, fatigue, and mood swings.

Suggestions To Lessen Cleansing Symptoms:

  • Drink more water
  • Take an Epsom salt bath
  • Drink a small amount of a caffeinated beverage ie. a 1/4 cup of coffee or a cup of green tea
  • Use magnesium oxide to promote bowel movements
  • Try to get extra sleep
  • Do dry skin brushing
  • Do deep breathing

Water:

Proper consumption of water is imperative for all of our body systems to perform.  It is extremely important to drink plenty of water while on the challenge. 80 oz per day is ideal for the average woman this can include other beverages such as herbal tea, the ELT cleansing drink, the cranberry drink, and a small amount of sparkling water. As your body is shifting and eliminating toxic fat, you need water to dilute those toxins and help flush them out of your body. Also, water promotes good bowel movements, if you aren’t having a BM it’s a good indicator that you are not drinking enough water.