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START FRESH WITH A CHANGE IN SEASON!
This past summer has been a hot one, bringing many backyard parties and patio hopping which can take a toll on your body. Eating out and sipping on tasty summer cocktails can sure add up, and that’s why fall is the perfect time of year to give your body a fresh start. A mild detoxification (detox) program will help you achieve this by giving the body a chance to cleanse itself before the holiday season arrives. There are so many detoxes and fasts out there, that it is often confusing and a little scary to take part in something that you don’t know enough about, and it’s smart to do some research before trying out the latest trend. The truth is, detoxes can be very beneficial to the body in helping to rid itself from accumulated toxins, food additives, pesticides, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine and a poor diet. They are also very effective in helping those that suffer from bloating, indigestion, headaches, fatigue, weight gain and low immunity. Some detoxification programs out there are extreme and often too much for the average person to take on. They can be unpleasant and sometimes dangerous if not followed properly. What’s next then? How can you follow a mild cleansing program that is manageable for you, and realistic with your lifestyle? Take a look at the steps below and try to follow them as best as you can. The simple task of changing just one or two things in your regular routine will help to improve your overall well being and will help to cleanse your system just in time for the fall. Not only will your body thank you, but so will your mind and spirit. Go ahead and let the change of season bring good things your way! Step 1: Drink a glass of warm water and freshly squeezed lemon juice 1/2 hour before breakfast. This helps to increase bile flow to help the liver breakdown excess fat and eliminate excess toxins. Step 2: Add a touch of chlorophyll to your daily tea or to a glass of water in the middle of the day. Chlorophyll is a wonderful detoxifier, derived from alfalfa. It acts as an antioxidant, supporting cellular health and increasing red blood cell production; which helps to boost energy levels as well. Step 3: Incorporate more fibre into your diet to help regulate bowel movements and eliminate excess toxins. Oat bran or ground flaxseeds on top of cereals, in applesauce or in smoothies are a great way to get more fibre! Step 4: Start adding liver friendly foods to your diet such as beets, carrots, celery, lemons, turmeric, rosemary, cumin and curries. Step 5: Try to eliminate or at least limit your consumption of potential allergenic foods for a period of 4-10 days. These foods include refined sugars, MSG, dairy, oranges, chocolate, soy, peanuts, yeast, caffeine, alcohol and simple starches (anything white). Wheat should also be avoided. Good alternatives include 100% rye bread, Ezekiel bread, brown rice, quinoa, barley, oats and millet. Step 6: Finally, try to give your digestive system a break by following a 1-5 day liquid cleanse. In this time frame you can have anything you want as long as it is in liquid form, and free from simple sugars and preservatives. Good suggestions include soups (pureed), smoothies, 100% fruit and vegetables juices, and organic broths. Flax, sesame or pumpkin seed oil can also be added to smoothies or soups. Also, be sure to remember that caffeine and alcohol isn’t on the list…. just wait until the holidays sneak up on you. Cary Galloway CNP, RNCP, B.Kin |