LOL with the cookies! No, my boyfriend is chronically UNDERweight and there has been no cooking going on in household for a few days now. He has been great about eating (and smoking) outside of the house during this time.

I was head-achy by the end of the first day, but that's since subsided. I am experiencing some fullness in my belly and ankles though, so the previous suggestion of water retention sounds about right. Not sure how to fix that though.

As for being dehydrated before starting -- kinda doubt that since I've been eating so well for the past two years and drinking plenty of fluids (mostly herbal teas) and exercising regularly. Other than the smoking, I feel that I've been in good health and have maintained my goal weight for some time now. This somewhat rapid weight gain is very disconcerting as I've not experienced it (even during my period) for as long as I can remember.

Yes, I've been using the recommended amount of maple syrup in my lemonade but cut that down to half today with some concern over the amount of carbohydrates in the syrup as another possible explanation for the weight gain.

There are so many factors to consider! It's quite a learning process and a great journey toward better understanding of one's own body. Thanks so much for your input. I'm putting my faith in this cleanse and hoping that it's just a matter of time before my body adjusts to it correctly.

On the upside, my skin does look better (I've been doing the dry brushing too, which is AWESOME) and I've noticed a heightened sense of smell.