Spring Clean Your Body

Spring is in the Air. We are lucky enough to be living in one of the most beautiful places on the planet. Not only do we have an abundance of nature at our fingertips, we also have plenty of organic marketplaces to indulge in. So if you want to feel refreshed and revitalized for the new season, one of the simplest ways to do this is with your diet.

Today’s diets are becoming increasingly filled with refined carbohydrates, sugars and caffeine, to name a few, all of which add to the burden on our bodies detoxification systems. Although it is almost impossible to live entirely free of toxins, it is possible to change the way your body responds and deals with the toxic load we place on it.

It is well known that good health begins in the gut. The digestive systems function is to provide fuel for the body by processing food into nutrients that the body can use. If the digestive system is constantly bombarded with processed foods and insufficient levels of fruit and vegetables there can be an accumulation of waste products in the body. This can lead to digestive issues such as bloating, constipation and poor digestion. Enzyme deficiency, low stomach acid or bacteria imbalance can all contribute to the guts inability to break down foods.

The liver is an essential organ that is in charge of several major metabolic and digestive functions of the body. One of its most key functions is to detoxify the body by neutralizing and eliminating the extra toxins that our bodies are exposed to on a daily basis. It not only clears out excess toxins but is a key hormone balancer. Many health problems can be attributed to a liver which is overburdened.

The top 5 food I recommend to include for cleansing both the liver and digestive system are:

1. Lemon - Start your day with a warm cup of lemon water. Lemon is a liver detoxifier and contains a high amount of vitamin C, vital for the production of liver cleansing compounds in your body

2. Garlic -Fresh garlic cleanses bacteria, parasites and viruses from your body, especially in the blood and intestines.

3. Brassicas - The brassica family is an amazing family of vegetables that contain numerous cancer fighting and antioxidant compounds. These compounds support the liver in breaking down excess hormones.

4. Apples - Apples are high in pectin which bind to cholesterol and heavy metals making it an excellent cleanser for the liver and intestines.

5. Blueberries – Blueberries contain a high amount of antioxidants which neutralize free radicals.

By incorporating these foods into your diet on a daily basis and making the most of our pristine beaches, lush rainforests and hours of sunshine, you can look forward to a healthier and more energized you.