[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Eat well, feel well!

The foods we consume, physical actions we take and thoughts we think impact our health each and every day. You can learn to nourish, protect, renew and even DETOX by using all-natural foods and resources that are available in your everyday life – in your personal farmacy.

The symptoms of belly bloat and other irritations from food are downright miserable to endure, and they can cause a whole slew of diseases down the road if you don’t take care of yourself and listen to your body’s warning signs. Here is the good news: It’s simply not necessary to cut-out entire food groups, go on a juice cleanse or practically starve yourself to FEEL good. Life not always about looking good! In my experience, if you are focused on taking the right action steps to help you feel better, ultimately the rest will come along with it.

• Feel better both physically and emotionally
• Find more joy in life
• Wake up feeling energized
• Learn to take care of yourself so you can better take care of those around you

Try to incorporate the below listed items into your regular diet as often as possible to reap consistent detoxifying benefits from real food:

 

#1 HIBISCUS TEA

When you consume a good deal of sodium the body tends to retain fluids, resulting in a puffed belly – nobody wants that. Sipping on some hibiscus tea will help deflate that puff! The flavonoids in the hibiscus plant counteract bloating by influencing the hormone that regulates your water and electrolyte balance.

Pro tip: For the perfect morning detox breakfast, brew some hibiscus tea and pair with a bowl of Greek yogurt topped with a variety of seeds, nuts and berries.

 

#2 SALMON

A diet rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids supports heart and organ health, allowing for healthy blood flow. Proper blood flow and circulation are crucial factors to ridding the body of unwanted toxins and keeping your arteries clean and functioning properly!

Pro tip: Always opt for wild caught verses farm raised fish when you are able for greater nutritional value / less hormones. Serve with a side of simple homemade dressing: Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, garlic and cilantro, mint or basil (or combination).

 

#3 SPINACH

Give your liver the boost it needs to release toxic buildup!  Watercress helps release enzymes in the liver, and provides incredible cleansing benefits that rid the body of unwanted pollutants.

Pro tip: If you’re into smoothies, this is a great one for blending! You can also try adding it to a salad, but it’s a bit of an acquired taste when eaten alone.

 

#4 BANANA

Bananas will slim your tummy by increasing bloat-fighting bacteria, and providing a healthy dose of potassium to reduce water retention. Eat twice daily as a pre-meal snack to reduce belly-bloat by up to 50%!

Pro tip: Peel and freeze your over-ripe bananas for a delicious frozen addition to your smoothies.

 

#5 ARTICHOKE

Artichokes contain antioxidants that stimulate bile flow, which helps the body digest fats and clear the system of potentially inflammatory substances. Just one artichoke per day also contains 10 grams of fiber and can decrease belly fat by up to 4%!

 

Pro tip: After removing the outer leaves, slice whole artichokes in half and baste with olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper, then roast them on the grill.

 

#6 GRAPEFRUIT

This tasty citrus fruit zaps fat and is packed with natural antioxidants, soluble fiber (which aids the digestive system) and vitamin C! Grapefruit also cleanses the skin and is high in potassium, which supports cellular cleansing and helps tighten and tone the skin.

Pro tip: Tastes great by itself, on a salad or with a drizzle of honey and pecans toasted in the oven!

 

#7 KIWI

Kiwi is one of the most effective forms of fiber, which makes it an important part of your regular detox diet. Kiwi is also loaded with vitamin C and promotes healthy digestion. Consuming a daily dose of this powerful little fruit could be very beneficial for any detox!

 

Pro tip: Tasty when paired with yogurt, oatmeal, in a smoothie or on its own!

 

#8 ALMONDS

A couple small handfuls of almonds a day can work wonders! These vitamin-packed little nuggets help cleanse the fat and toxins that build up around the liver.

 

Pro tip: Toss an ounce serving of almonds on top of a salad, yogurt or oatmeal for an added crunch and up to 6 grams of protein!

 

#9 ASPARAGUS

This green goddess has good news for your next hangover! According to a study in the Journal of Food Science, the amino acids and minerals found in asparagus may alleviate hangover symptoms and protect liver cells against toxins. As a natural diuretic, they will also help flush any pesky excess toxins from your system. Never thought steamed greens would sound so good?

 

Pro tip: Roast in the oven with whole fresh garlic, sundried tomatoes and Herbes de Provence spice mix for a healthy and delicious side dish! You can also add feta for a non-vegan approach.

 

#10 LEMON

Flatten those tummy’s and flush toxins with lemon! Lemon is a natural energizer, cleanser and purifier that helps your body fight symptoms of toxic build-up. Additionally, they’re an excellent source of Vitamin C and other antioxidants which protect the body.

Pro tip: Lemon water can also be helpful in relieving indigestion or an upset stomach, all while keeping insulin levels steady, which allows you to get more nutrients out of the food you consume.

Limit your consumption of the following items for the best results:

Alcohol, caffeine (coffee and tea are OK), sugar, sugar supplements, fried food, processed food and food items containing more than 10-12 ingredients. Also limit consumption of liquids during mealtime to give the body room to digest properly.  Everything in balance![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]