At the outset of my unhealthy-food detox, I fell somewhere between neutral and skeptical of the idea. My curiosity had nonetheless led me to Sea Change Healing Center, a holistic health and healing facility in New York City. As I began to experience the ways in which dietary sacrifice can actually pay off, I became a shockingly quick convert. Within the first week, I developed paranormal energy reserves, the likes of which I hadn't seen since kindergarten. I would spring out of bed at the crack of dawn with more vigor and exhilaration than I knew what to do with. More than anything, I felt indescribably healthy.

Detox Basics
Cleansing offers possibilities for better health -- if you find the right plan. Some programs recommend strict fasting (too drastic for many people) or rely on a single nutritional source, such as grapefruit, that may not be compatible with your unique constitution. Sea Change has used the basic tenets of sound nutrition to modify its 21-day plan into a week-long trial for Body+Soul readers that includes a food chart. This plan involves neither fasting nor calorie restrictions. Eating three full meals a day plus hunger-dictated snacks, you trade less-healthy choices for whole foods that satisfy in a more sustaining way. Before beginning this or any other program, take stock of your overall health. Never start a detox program while pregnant. If you have any chronic or serious health condition, cleanse only under a doctor's supervision; even if you don't have a health condition, consulting a doctor is a good idea. You may uncover underlying disease processes as you detox.

When you start your program, make a commitment to self-observation. Detox experiences differ, even for those who do it habitually. Also keep in mind that while some mild physical and emotional discomfort is normal, feeling really ill is not. If you experience the latter, you should quit and see a doctor right away. Final thoughts to bear in mind: The Body+Soul plan emphasizes well-being rather than weight loss, although you may find you lose some weight. Slow down and give food your full attention. Eliminate TV and other distractions that encourage mindless eating. And think about the origins of what's on your plate. By fully appreciating the food that sustains you, you'll stay nutritionally grounded long after the plan is done.