Detox Q&A with Aimee

Here’s a brief Q & A with Balance founder and owner Aimee Duddles about why she started the program and how it has improved her health and happiness. 

Why did you start the detox program? 

AD: During the summer of 2008, I was working 16 hour days for several months in order to meet our deadline for opening in our current space. I knew the stress, lack of sleep and poor dietary choices were not good for my body and health. I wanted to get ahead of it and try to prevent health problems.

I was intrigued by the increasing popularity of "detoxing" and "cleansing,” but, as with everything, I started off as a skeptic. I wondered: `Why do we need to detox? What is the difference between all the detox and cleansing products on the market?’ It seemed to me like people had been managing just fine for generations without detoxing.(I later learned that some cultures have practiced detox rituals for centuries.)

In researching my options, I found most programs failed to meet my parameters, particularly my need to not feel like I was on a fad diet or dramatically shock my system. I finally found the detox plan that I now share with clients. I like it because its comprehensive, offering a mix of great food, supplements and important physiological and nutritional information about the process.

When did you do your first detox? How many times have you done a detox?

AD: I did my first detox in 2009 with my clients. I have done almost every BHC detox since, which is about twice to three times a year. It is challenging to motivate the group while staying motivated myself but time and time again, clients end up inspiring me with their own drive and commitment. This is one of the beauties of detoxing in a group. You can share your experiences, challenges, questions and help each other succeed.

How has doing a detox changed your eating habits?

AD: I’ve learned to practice greater moderation, integration, and creativity with my food choices and menu planning.  Every time I have detoxed, I have moved in a healthier direction.  Sometimes I took five steps forward and others, only one. However, after every detox, I naturally craved foods that offer nutritional value to my body. There are many processed foods that don't even cross my mind anymore and there are significantly fewer in my cabinets. I will still have a fast food meal in a pinch but it is far less often. I pay much closer attention to ingredients. The meals provided on the detox program proved that delicious can also be healthy. It inspired me to be more creative in preparing my own meals. 

With that said, detoxing is not just about food. There are hundreds of toxins we expose ourselves to everyday that should also be acknowledged. Our body can handle anything in moderation, including toxins. However, when we are not eating well or taking good care of ourselves, our body cannot naturally filter the toxins.

When I began to see the big picture, I re-prioritized. I started to work on how I respond and cope with stress. I chose more natural cold and flu remedies and other alternatives to common over-the-counter medicine.

All of these changes collectively reduce my toxicity and help to improve my energy and mood. This in turn gives me the ability to better handle what life may send my way. 

How has it changed your health? 

AD:  After a detox, I have more energy, my skin looks more vibrant and healthy, I don’t retain as much water, ridding my body of bloating and puffiness. Best of all, I am much more clear minded, which makes me more centered and efficient.  I feel better on the inside and look better on the outside.

What are some of the unexpected benefits of doing a detox? 

AD: Compassion; my favorite and most surprising lesson from detoxing is to not be so hard on myself. I have a better grasp on the nuances of what I call "good, better, best" choices. When I feel like I am about to make a poor choice, I offset it with a healthier choice that still satisfies my craving. Instead of snacking on a bag of Cheetos, I will choose some kettle-cooked chips. On a good day, I'll do one better and grab some almonds instead. On a great day, I'll snack on veggies and hummus. Whether potato chips, almonds or veggies, I always feel better about the decision I made.  As time goes on, the "best" choice becomes the automatic choice.

What advice do you have for first-time detoxers?

AD: I think it’s important to use all the support available through BHC but the biggest support is that you’ll have access to ready-made meals and recipes for delicious, healthy food. Detoxing is a great time to slow down a bit, savor the food, and enjoy caring for your body and mind.