Embarking on an Ayurvedic cleanse is a powerful way to reset your body, mind, and spirit. As the days unfold, questions often arise about what’s okay and what’s best avoided. To help you feel supported and confident, I’ve put together answers to the most common questions I hear from clients. May this guide bring clarity, ease, and encouragement as you move through your 7-day at-home cleanse.
1. Can I use sweeteners like honey, coconut sugar, or maple syrup?
It’s best to avoid added sweeteners during the cleanse. Instead, use dates, raisins, or fresh fruit to naturally sweeten oatmeal or kitchari.
2. Is caffeine allowed?
Ideally, we avoid coffee and black tea so the liver and nervous system can rest. If you’re used to daily caffeine, you can taper down before starting, or substitute with gentle herbal teas (ginger, tulsi, chamomile).
3. Can I exercise while cleansing?
Gentle movement like walking, yoga, or stretching is encouraged. Avoid high-intensity workouts, as your body is already processing and detoxifying.
4. What if I feel hungry between meals?
It’s normal for appetite to shift. If needed, have a small bowl of kitchari, a piece of fruit, or a handful of soaked almonds. Avoid snacking on processed foods.
5. Can I use spices, herbs, or condiments?
Yes! Spices like cumin, coriander, fennel, ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon are supportive for digestion. Avoid heavy sauces, fried foods, or processed condiments.
6. Is ghee required?
Ghee is an important part of the cleanse—it lubricates tissues, supports detoxification, and nourishes digestion. Use it daily in cooking or drizzled on kitchari.
7. What if I feel detox symptoms (headache, fatigue, irritability)?
This can happen, especially if reducing caffeine, sugar, or processed foods. Rest, hydrate with warm water or herbal tea, and take it easy. If symptoms persist, let me know so we can adjust.
8. Can I eat raw salads or smoothies?
During the cleanse, it’s best to stick to warm, cooked foods. This supports digestion and helps the body clear toxins more efficiently.
9. Is it okay to eat fish, chicken, or eggs?
The traditional cleanse is vegetarian, focused on kitchari. If you feel you need more protein, lightly cooked mung dal or a small amount of well-cooked vegetables with spices should suffice.
10. How do I know the cleanse is working?
You may notice lighter digestion, improved elimination, deeper sleep, more mental clarity, or simply a sense of reset. Every body is unique, so tune into subtle shifts and trust the process.
