One of the first things we do when embarking on an exciting new year is plot and plan, creating goals for healthier, fitter, cleaner bodies. Detoxing is a fantastic way to kick off a new health regime, however a juice detox or a surplus of salads may not satisfy or lead to balance during the frosty winter months. My recommendation for cleaning up the after effects of holiday indulgences would be to start with simple steps. An overabundance of Christmas cookies, wine, gravies, and cheeses can slow down our digestion, possibly resulting in a sluggish liver, and generally just feeling ‘not so hot.’ By incorporating herbal teas, ‘clean’ soup recipes, ample fiber, lightly steamed vegetables, and a fair share of good old H2O, your body will be thanking you, which means a lighter, brighter, healthier you to embark on a fabulous new year. Caffeine free teas, including herbs such as turmeric, ginger, milk thistle, dandelion, and fennel can kick start digestion, clear toxins, and protect the liver. Green tea can also be a fantastic substitute for coffee, which can bare weight on the liver to some extent. Rooibos tea is an excellent brew for people who prefer sweeter, more subtle tastes, and is packed full of antioxidants! Eating hearty soups is an easy way to supply your body with nutrient dense vegetables that are essentially somewhat predigested. Spices, such as turmeric, or garlic, which works as a blood cleanser are great flavors to include in a detox. Also, soups can be served chunky or pureed depending on your preference. For someone who has very compromised digestion, pureeing may be a preferred option. Lightly steamed vegetables, and baked fruits are winter friendly nutritional powerhouses. The local produce lets our bodies know which types of foods we would most naturally be consuming this time of year, so you may want to also pay attention to what is grown close to home. Be sure to include lots of fibre in your new, improved diet. The fibre will help sweep away the toxins, and powdered fibres can easily be added to hot cereals or smoothies. You’ll be getting a lot of this roughage from your fruits and vegetables as well. Flax capsules can also be used, however freshly ground flax has active omega three fatty acids, as an anti-inflammatory bonus. Water is also something not to skimp on if you’re planning on flushing out toxic buildup. Aim for 8-10 cups of filtered water per day, but keep it mind, the amount does depend on body size, diet, and activity level. If you’re feeling like you may need some extra support, taking herbs in capsule or tincture form is a great idea. Dandelion, milk thistle, burdock root, and turmeric will often be combined in many liver formulas. Detoxing can absolutely be easy and winter friendly. Here is an easy soup recipe, which incorporates warming spices and nutritionally dense foods.
5-6 large carrots, chopped. 1 small onion, chopped. 1 litre vegetable stock 1 tsp grated ginger 1 tsp curry powder 1 tbsp grape seed or coconut oil Salt and Pepper to taste Heat oil in a large pot. Sautee onion for 1-2 minutes. Add spices, and stir. Add vegetable stock, and carrots, and bring to a boil. Bring heat to low, and cover for 30 minutes. Take soup off heat, and let cool for 10 minutes. Pour mixture into a blender, and blend until smooth. Written By: Jennifer McGregor, RHN Natural Health Advisor, Pure at White Rock
