Natural Detoxing Tips to Kick Off the New Year
Source: Natural Detoxing Tips to Kick Off the New Year
Sometimes the best way to start a new season is to give the body an overhaul. Maybe the holidays were just a bit too indulgent or you want to start now to get ready for bikini season - whatever the reason, there's a healthy way to go about recharging yourself. Keep reading to learn our favorite methods for naturally detoxing the body to feel lighter and more energized.
What to Eat: While cutting out obvious bad-for-you foods will help give your body a healthy makeover, knowing which foods you should be eating can also play a role. Fruits and veggies are already an important aspect of any nutrient-rich diet, but certain farmers market favorites have the added benefit of natural detoxing properties by aiding in digestion, promoting healthy liver function, and stimulating the body's natural detoxification process.
What to Drink: First off: water, lots of water. Staying properly hydrated is key in helping your body perform at its optimal level. And while you may be tempted to jump on the ever-growing trend of doing a juice-only cleanse, studies are unclear as to whether it helps or hurts the body. If you do embark on one, keep in mind that you run the risk of not getting enough calories or nutrients (like protein and fiber) in your daily diet. That doesn't mean that incorporating certain beverages into your diet isn't beneficial when giving your body overhaul. From debloating to stimulating the liver, find out the best way to hydrate when a natural detox is in order.
How to Move: When it comes to feeling better in your own body, exercise is key: it increases energy, boosts your mood, improves thinking, and helps prevent disease. Be sure to give your body a head start by doing exercises that stimulate its circulatory, digestive, and lymphatic systems. (If you have pared down your diet during this period of detox, make sure you are taking in enough calories to maintain your fitness regimen.)
What Not to Eat: Embarking on an elimination diet is a great way to let your body recharge by cutting out processed foods (like refined carbs and sugar) and items that many people show sensitivities to (like gluten and dairy). Doing so should help you feel more energized and less bloated. If you can, we recommend cutting out sugar, gluten, alcohol, dairy, caffeine, soy, corn, factory-farmed meat, and nightshades for a period of two to four weeks. Curious to know how these changes will affect your body?
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