I can't speak directly to the methodology of everyone who has tried to do the total body cleanse properly, and not a colon cleanse. I would suggest that if the cleansing program is done as instructed, phenominal results will follow. Refraining from food would be the beginning, but it's very important to proceed gradually. By slowly increasing the herbs daily to soften the old impacted fecal matter, drinking copius amounts of pure water, and eliminating food intake, will result in mucoid plaque loosening, and removal. I would venture to say that most who have made an attempt to cleanse only to see regular colored bowel movements are still eating some type of food while cleansing. The problem is really centered around the fact that most people are eliminating mucus build-up with every bowel movement. Therefore, the elimination maybe dark, hard, and maloderous prior to cleansing. Be true to youreself, and sacrifice a few days to extend a few years.