I was hoping to be in Gozo, sunning by the pool at this wonderful retreat with Amchara. However, due to travel restrictions, this location is currently a distant dream.
In the meantime I’m pulling in some of the detox strategies that I advise clients on leading up to a juice fast. These can be incorporated into your every day life. They become a habit over time and this is surely the beauty of a detox week, to help you incorporate long term health changes into your life for longevity and well being.
1. HYDRATE
Drink more water. Your body is made up of 70 per cent water and needs around 2-3 litres (depending on body weight and activity) a day in order to stay hydrated and to help to your kidneys flush out the toxins. Add a squeeze of lemon to add an extra cleansing boost.
2. MAKE ORGANIC SWAPS
Eat organic food to minimise your intake of toxic pesticides. Organic food provides a greater level of antioxidants so your liver can cleanse more optimally. In particular, organic fruit and veg also contains higher amounts of Vitamin A, Vitamin C and sulfur – which also help boost the cleansing effects of the body.
3. REDUCE PROCESSED FOODS
Take a weight off your liver and avoid processed foods whilst also eating less dairy, meat and sugary foods which are hard to process. Eat plenty of vegetables and whole fruit – especially greens, berries, apples, pears and plums.
4. INCREASE MOVEMENT
Exercise daily for improved circulation. Through sweat we are able to liberate toxins more easily. Exercise promotes detoxification and boosts your body’s immune system. As you exercise, the blood circulates; providing nutrients to organs and muscles. Stool transit time will also be increased.
5. REDUCE CAFFEINE & ALCOHOL
Cut down on caffeinated drinks and alcohol as these deplete nutrients, burden the liver and can all dehydrate the body. Swap for a cup of green tea which provides important antioxidants that the body needs – but in a more gentle way.
6. GIVE YOUR LIVER A BREAK
Obvious toxins such as caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners and processed foods put burden on the liver. The human body was not designed to process a daily onslaught of artificial E numbers and other chemicals. This burden will inhibit your body’s ability to naturally cleanse.
7. INCREASE FIBRE
Eat a portion of fibre with each meal. Grains, cereals, fresh fruit and vegetables help move food through the digestive system. They’ll also provide energy too. Not only is fibre part of a healthy diet that will help aid weight loss, but it’s also an essential way of cleansing the body in its most natural form.
8. INCLUDE A FRESH JUICE PER DAY
Leafy greens, veggies and fruits are delicious in smoothies and juices. Drinking these will help you to consume more alkalizing minerals which will help detoxify your body. Smoothies are an excellent way to get those superfoods into your diet.
9. COSMETIC CHECK
Swap your cosmetics and cleaning products for non-toxic alternatives, after all chemicals and toxins are not just found in your food.
10. SLEEP QUALITY
Work on sleep hygiene: start the day with your face in the daylight for at least 15 minutes, check your screen time, sleep for 8-9 hours per night . Your body cleanses itself while you are asleep; processing toxins and replenishing energy. Both of which are essential for effective detoxing. So be sure to prioritize sleep.
