Cleansing Foods for Springtime

cleansing foods for springtime

Springtime is the perfect time of year to get your digestive system working to its full potential and clear out the liver! Our liver works hard to detoxify our bodies on a daily basis, (think alcohol, medications, and natural byproducts of our metabolism).

Below is a list of my favorite foods that aid in this process.

Apple cider vinegar – This simple household staple supports proper digestion and has an alkaline effect on body pH. Try 1 tsp in warm water first thing in the AM.

Artichokes – stimulate the liver and gallbladder, and contain caffeoylquinic acids, which support bile flow. They are a good source of inulin, a prebiotic fiber that helps feed our probiotic bacteria.

Asparagus – high in glutathione, a natural antioxidant and helps support urinary function.

Avocado – also contains glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that aids the liver in detoxification. Avos are also a great source of healthy fats that keep you satiated throughout the day.

Beets and beet greens – Support liver, gallbladder and blood purification. Contain betalains which benefit our cells, especially of the liver.

Celery – Is an excellent hydrator, and intestinal sweeper being high in fiber. Celery also contains phytochemicals that have been shown to be useful in cancer prevention.

Cilantro – Helps support heavy metal detoxification as well as blood purification. Cilantro is a natural chelator.

Cranberries – Support a healthy urinary tract. Native Americans have used cranberries to treat UTIs for centuries. Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins, which prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall. They are also an excellent source of malic acid which helps soften gallstones.

Dandelion greens – Contain bitter compounds help to strengthen digestion and liver function. Dandelion is also high in compounds which have intestinal antiseptic, germicidal, and expectorant effects. Dandelion root is regarded as one of the finest liver remedies.

Kale – We should all be very familiar with kale by know. Loaded with anti-oxidants, kale helps supports liver function. High in chlorophyll and carotenes.

Kombucha – This fermented tea supplies probiotics and aids in general detoxification and digestive support, (look for the brands with low sugar content).

Lemons – Known for a high vitamin C content, they actually alkalize the body. Lemons contain the phytochemical limonene, which can help dissolve gallstones.

Parsley – Supports kidney function. High in chlorophyll, and anti-cancerous volatile oils. Make a chimichurry or add it to salads.

Sauerkraut – This traditionally fermented cabbage is loaded with good bacteria that can help support colon health.

Seaweed – One of our most mineral rich foods, thought to support heavy metal detox as well as anti-cancer benefits. Good source of natural iodine which helps support the thyroid.

Turmeric – The main ingredient in most curries, turmeric is well known for its strong anti-inflammatory properties- use it in everything!

You can add healthy foods to your diet all day long, but if you are still eating irritating food-like substances, the healing process will be a lot slower. Be mindful of what you are putting into your body and try to avoid or limit the foods/substances listed below.

FOODS TO AVOID:

REFINED SUGAR
· It is best not to consume sugar in any form other than whole fruit or unrefined sources high in vitamins and minerals like honey and maple syrup.
· Many packaged foods have added sweeteners, so read labels carefully and avoid processed food.

CONVENTIONAL DAIRY PRODUCTS
· Avoid processed dairy, low-fat milks, sweetened yogurts, and other dairy foods that contain dry milk powder or additives.
· Consider keeping some unsweetened raw/fermented products such as homemade yogurt or kefir in your diet if you tolerate dairy.

CONVENTIONALLY RAISED MEATS
· These foods may contain hormones and antibiotic residue
· Grain-fed animal products have a less desirable fatty acid profile and this method of raising animals is detrimental to the environment. Choose grass-fed pasture raised animals and animal products if possible.

NON-SPROUTED WHEAT AND OTHER GRAINS
· When grains aren’t prepared properly (soaked or sprouted) they are very hard for us to digest. Look for sprouted products or soak and sprout your own at home before cooking.

ALCOHOL

COFFEE/CAFFEINE
· When cleansing, try to limit to one cup of organic coffee per day.

PROCESSED FOODS
· Avoid foods that contain additives,preservatives, or “natural flavors”.
· Avoid powdered eggs, MSG, and refined foods in general. This includes processed soy and soy/vegetable oil. (Natural and traditional fermented forms of organic soy like edamame, miso, tempeh, and sprouted tofu, are OK.)

MORNING DETOX DRINK:

10 oz. warm water
1-2 tsp apple cider vinegar
½ lemon (squeezed)
1-2 tsp raw honey
Dash of cinnamon
Drink hot or cold- mix all ingredients and drink first thing in the morning when you wake up!