We’ve moved our clocks ahead, the first Spring flowers are starting to bloom, and the official first day of Spring is approaching. Must be time for spring cleaning.
As a kid, at our house spring cleaning was about cleaning out the house of things that had accumulated during the winter. The windows were wide open and the smell of spring filled the house. I remember some people I knew also did some internal cleaning by giving things up for Lent. I remember one friend who gave up fast food for Lent and discovered a major unexpected weight loss.
Traditional Chinese Medicine tells us that the change of the seasons is the best time to do a cleanse; and the transition from Winter to Spring is the most ideal time. Detoxing your body can calm inflammation, stimulate repair and recovery, and boost energy. A cleanse should never involve frequent hunger or lack of nutrients, factors that only stress the body further.
Finding food intolerances
Many people don’t realize they have food intolerances. These foods trigger an immune reaction and cause such symptoms as low energy, rashes, joint pain, digestive issues, headaches, anxiety, depression, and more. They also prevent weight loss. The foods people most commonly react to are gluten, grains, dairy, eggs, and nuts.
Other inflammation triggers
Other common immune triggers include nightshades (potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, etc.), legumes, coffee, and, of course, foods high in sugar, including sweet fruits and natural sweeteners, such as honey, maple syrup, and agave.
Healthy cleanse foods
At this point you might be wondering, “If I do a cleanse, what will I eat?” Whole foods. Just as our ancestors ate prior to the industrialization of food, and there is plenty to eat. In fact, it is important not to let yourself get too hungry as the low blood sugar caused by chronic hunger causes inflammation. You’ll eat frequently enough to sustain energy and avoid crashing.
Grass-fed and organic meats, wild fish, plenty of vegetables, healthy fats, and fermented foods, such as sauerkraut, , along with plenty of water and non-caffeinated herbal teas.
This is only the beginning. I would be happy to help you make your own cleanse process as easy as possible.
I’m hosting a cleanse group that will start next Monday March 26th and you’re invited! I’m calling it The Reboot Your Body Spring Detox. Click here to learn more and join the fun.