Hey there, Mamas!
Let’s get real for a moment. We all tried our best to maintain some semblance of balance in our diets during the holiday season, but can we collectively agree to say no to the dreaded cleanse?
Humans are designed to eat food. Seriously, sipping on kale and lemon juice for five days straight does not qualify as sustenance. Trust me, I’ve been there. The last time I attempted a cleanse, I found myself eyeing dog biscuits at the gas station like they were gourmet treats. If you ever find yourself contemplating canine snacks, it’s a clear sign that something is off.
As caregivers, we are responsible for preparing meals for our little ones. We’re the ones wandering the grocery store, tantalized by the smell of rotisserie chicken and fresh-baked goods. We craft shopping lists and scour Pinterest for creative ways to ensure our kids eat healthily.
You think you’re passionate about food now? Just wait until you’re on a cleanse. By day two, you might find yourself longing to make out with that corn dog your child is waving around at dinner while you stare at your sad kale mix. Your dreams will revolve around cheeseburgers, and you’ll fantasize about devouring chocolate cake straight from the pan. When you develop a weird relationship with food, it’s hard to escape. Every time you see a bag of chips, it will haunt you.
Sure, some people claim that doing a cleanse will boost your energy, enhance your glow, and help shed some pounds. But let’s get real: you’ll have the energy to be angry at everyone who dares to eat in your presence, and your skin might glow red from all the frustration. You may indeed lose weight, but only because you’re spending half the time glued to the bathroom. And when you finally eat again? Those pounds will come rushing back, often faster than you can say “carrot stick.”
We don’t need more reasons to be irritated, feel faint when we stand up, or lose our cool. Isn’t life hard enough without adding self-imposed starvation to the mix? Our bodies are meant to grow and nourish tiny humans, not shed 30 pounds in a week. We have too many responsibilities to be stuck in the bathroom.
Let’s embrace the reality that we’re often munching on our kids’ leftover crusts from their peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. We’re experts at sneaking bites while whipping up dinner, often with a glass of wine or beer in hand because we’ve earned it. Who else is going to taste the macaroni and cheese to ensure it’s not too hot? If you deny yourself that (even for just a week), you’re going to be seriously unhappy.
Women enjoying food is a timeless tale that doesn’t need revision. Whether you’re gluten-free, vegan, or just enjoy whatever you want, saying no to cleanses is key. Don’t succumb to pressure; it’s simply not worth it. Food is meant to be savored, and we deserve to feel sane without the temptation of dog biscuits.
Yes, we can tackle tough challenges, but giving up eating isn’t one of them—even for a week. So next time someone invites you to join a cleanse, just say, “No, thank you,” wish them well, and take a big bite of that steak while reveling in the fact that you won’t need a Costco-sized tub of Tucks pads.
For more insights on the complexities of motherhood and wellness, check out this post here. And if you’re looking for quality supplies for at-home insemination, visit Make a Mom for reputable syringe kits. For further reading on pregnancy and home insemination, the CDC provides an excellent resource here.
Summary
In conclusion, cleanses are not the answer for busy moms. Our bodies need nourishment to keep up with the demands of motherhood, and self-deprivation only leads to frustration and unhealthy relationships with food. Instead, let’s celebrate our right to enjoy meals and say no to the cleanse culture.