So the holidays came and went but all the deliciously caloric food and drinks we consumed are sticking around; in both our consciences and our bodies. Bring on all of the New Years resolutions to eat better and workout more in 2013! But, it’s hard to immediately make good on these resolutions while still recovering from all the damage done in 2012. There is a way to make it easier though. There are certain foods that can help jump start your new routine. These foods will help you get off the couch, leave all of those christmas cookies and hot chocolate behind, and prepare for all the nutrients the new year has to offer!
Lemon:
I’m sure everyone has heard of the Master Cleanse where all you drink for two weeks is lemon juice, syrup, and cayenne pepper. Despite the bad name this cleanse has given to the lemon, it actually has very beneficial detoxifying effects on the body and, if drank in moderation, can really help jump start a New Years diet. Lemons help keep the body at a steady pH, which means it can focus on supporting healthy bacteria and eliminating toxins from the body. Try drinking a cup of hot water with the juice of one lemon every morning.
Flaxseeds:
Flaxseeds are full of omega-3 fatty acids, which are healthy fats that we all need. But the real detoxifying power of flaxseeds lies in the mineral manganese, and it’s high fibre content helps aid in digestion and other bodily processes. You can sprinkle them on pretty much everything, but many people put their flax in smoothies or a breakfast cereal like oatmeal.
Cinnamon:
Cinnamon is a simple ingredient that you can add to many of your drinks or meals to boost your metabolism and detox your body. It contains countless antioxidants, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties that will help you get rid of any unwanted toxins and materials in the body.
Fennel
Fennel has many health benefits due the high content of many important vitamins and minerals. Because of it’s high fiber content, it also aids in digestion and functions as a diuretic, flushing out excess fluids and toxins. If you don’t like eating this strongly flavored root vegetable, there are also fennel teas available.
Kale
Kale is becoming quite popular in the health food movement. This leafy green, similar to spinach, is full of fiber and tons of powerful antioxidants that help in detoxing the body, such as vitamins A and C. It’s very easy to make and only needs to be sautéed with some oil and garlic (another important detoxifier!) to taste amazing.
Quinoa:
Quinoa is a great thing to eat when you’re craving all those starchy carbs like rice and mashed potatoes that you enjoyed in massive quantities at Christmas dinner. It is full of vitamins and proteins, which will keep you fuller for longer. It doesn’t have a very strong flavor so you can add in all your favorite flavors and veggies. I advise some of the super foods listed above to make it taste how you want!
Sources:
http://www.glamourmagazine.co….
Picture sources:
http://www.glamourmagazine.co….
http://ryanbraley.blogspot.com/2012/09/quinoa-gesundheit.html
http://www.wellsphere.com/wellpage/cooking-kale
http://www.examiner.com/article/grilled-fennel-with-lemon-oil-try-something-new-from-the-grill
http://www.alzcareblog.com/2012/06/11/the-good-cinnamon-challenge/
http://blogs.babble.com/family…