Spring Cleaning

People today rely mostly on processed and fast foods and don’t eat seasonally as they should. As the spring has arrived, our bodies are due for a spring cleaning. This is an ideal time to cleanse and experience rejuvenation as recommended by Joyce Vopni, Certified Herbalist. Historically, fasting is recommended; however, the pollutants stored in our bodies today would release a great rush of toxins to the liver. This could cause a liver overload. To cleanse and support the liver and digestive system, a modified food diet consisting mostly of rice would help. Rice including whole grain, brown, jasmine and others aid in digestion and contain an acid that heals the intestines. Do not eat wheat as it is hard to digest and many people are allergic to wheat and don’t even know it. Other foods to avoid are alcohol, meat, eggs, dairy products and soda. Grapefruit should also be avoided as it prevents the liver from filtering out the toxins from the body.

Your cleansing diet should contain fresh fruits and vegetables including beets and broccoli. Broccoli helps remove toxic chemicals from your body. Our bodies use B-vitamins to produce anti-bodies and process sugar. Thus, sugar should be avoided so more anti-bodies can be produced (Stevia, a natural sweetener is recommended as a substitute.)

To prepare for the detoxification, Vopni recommends cutting back/stopping caffeine, alcohol and smoking and to exercise. The lymph system is full of toxins and unlike the heart that pumps blood, the lymph system has no pump. Exercise will get the system moving and the more you sweat the better. Harataki is a gentle herbal laxative that will help rejuvenate your intestinal system. Dandelion root, milk thistle and licorice root will support your liver.

Rachael Carlevale