Integrative Health Blog

Winter is over! Transitioning from winter to spring is good news for the body. Seasonal changes can have many effects on us. Following the rhythm of the seasons our body has specific needs, and we should listen!

In winter, we want to be inside, stay warm and eat heavier, comforting foods. Changes in temperature, metabolism, sunlight exposure, and many other body processes occur in the long winter months. During the cold season we were exposed to less sunlight which is needed for serotonin and vitamin D production. Inadequate vitamin D and serotonin levels make us more susceptible to mild states of anxiety and low mood.  

Unfortunately, the mechanism for detoxification (which is happening in the liver) is slow during the winter time as well.  Toxin accumulation happens through the food that we eat, the air that we breathe, and medications. Some toxins stay in the body longer and can lead to chronic diseases. Many cases of fatigue, brain fog, and mood disorders are associated with an excess amount of toxins.   

Detoxification is Natural in Spring  

Spring is the time that the body is more active and ready to get rid of toxins.  

Detoxification is a very complicated process and starts in the liver. First, metabolites are produced from toxin metabolism and then they should be excreted through the kidneys, lungs, and gastrointestinal system. We can easily support this complicated process by cleansing our bodies naturally.

   

Cleanse and Detoxify the Body Naturally  

Eat Whole Foods  

• A healthy diet is the basis for starting detoxification as we need to eliminate foods that add to our toxic load.   
• A diet rich in fiber is a key for healthy bowel movements. Foods with fiber are fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds  
• Remove simple sugars! Replace with berries, cherries, fresh fruit  
• Remove trans-fats and replace with healthy fats such as coconut & avocado  
• Increase intake of dark, leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and non-starchy vegetables. Try to include 2 or more at each meal   
• Consider organic meats, fruits and vegetables with less pesticides. See the Environmental Working Group "dirty dozen" for fruits and vegetables containing the highest amount of pesticides. Be sure to wash all produce before eating.   

• Fruit with high fiber helps maintain good bacteria in the gut  
• Detoxification will help restore balance to the microbiome of the gut, which in turn helps keep the immune system strong   
• A healthy gut helps increase neurotransmitters, which help with mood and mental health   
• Consult with your physician for a good probiotic or apple cider vinegar for digestive support  

• Drink clean, filtered water throughout the day  
• Drink at least half your body weight (per pound) in ounces of water daily   
• Drink lemon water first thing in the morning (soft squeeze of half the lemon in warm water) and sip water throughout the day   

• Dry skin brushing helps the skin remove the toxins and open the pores for better detoxification and also helps the immune system with lymphatic return
•  Dry Brushing Video Here  

• A refreshing night's sleep can help your liver to work more efficiently on the inner environment to eliminate toxins  
• Make sure there are no electronics near your head or bed. The phone should be across the room if you use it as an alarm  
• During detoxification try to go to bed a little earlier to help the body rest   

• Schedule an appointment to guide you through the steps of safe and gentle detoxification.