The Betr program is designed to improve gut health, reduce inflammation, and boost overall health. However, in the first few days of starting the program, your body may detoxify, ridding the body of toxins from excess sugar and processed foods. This is a natural process as the body is rebalancing and detoxifying itself. Most clients go through detox during the first few days of the program but feel better by the end of the first week.
So what are the common symptoms of detox?
Detox symptoms vary from individual to individual. However, common symptoms are cravings, headaches, fatigue, digestive changes, skin changes, and mood swings.
Cravings: If your diet consisted of many processed foods and excess sugar before starting Betr, you might crave these foods once they are eliminated from your diet. This is common but can be challenging. However, the cravings often diminish over time as your body adjusts to healthier, better options.
Headaches: Some members report headaches or migraines during the initial stages of cutting out processed foods and sugar. This can be due to the withdrawal effects from substances like added sugars and preservatives.
Fatigue: Feeling more tired than usual is another common symptom. Your body is adapting to a new way of obtaining and utilizing energy, which can temporarily cause fatigue.
Digestive Changes: You might experience changes in bowel movements, such as increased frequency or changes in consistency, as your body adjusts to a diet higher in fiber from fruits, vegetables, and plant-based proteins.
Skin Changes: Your body expels toxins from different places in your body, including your skin. So some members notice changes in their skin during a detox period, including temporary breakouts.
Mood Swings: Changes in eating can affect mood and emotions. Some members might experience mood swings or irritability as their body adjusts to a better way of eating.
How to mitigate symptoms
While most members will experience detox symptoms, there are also ways to ease these symptoms while detoxing.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is crucial during a detox. It helps flush out toxins, aids digestion, and can alleviate some symptoms like headaches and fatigue. Herbal teas and infused water with fruits or herbs can add variety and encourage hydration. Aim for 50-70 oz of water daily.
Get adequate rest: Quality sleep is essential for your body to recover and adapt. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support your body's natural detoxification processes and to help manage fatigue and mood swings.
Go for a walk: Light physical activity, such as walking, can be beneficial during a detox. Walking can help improve circulation, which in turn, helps facilitate the removal of toxins and waste products from the body. Walking or light activity can help produce endorphins, which help alleviate stress and improve mood. Lastly, walking can help aid digestion, especially after a meal. It stimulates intestinal muscles and promotes regular bowel movements, which can be beneficial during the detox phase.
Continue to eat: It is important that you continue to eat better during the detoxification process so your body stays nourished and gets all the nutrients and benefits to help the healing process going on in your gut and body. Try to eat every few hours to help keep energy levels up and hunger levels in check. This will also help with cravings that may occur during this time.
While going through a detox may be less than ideal, it is important to remember that it is a part of the healing process going on. If you are going through a detox, it is a good sign that your body is getting rid of toxins and adjusting to a newer, healthier state. Let your coach know if you are experiencing any symptoms above so they can give you personalized feedback. If symptoms are persistent and/or severe, be sure to consult with your coach and/or your primary care physician.
