Spring Cleanse

Spring is a natural time for cleansing. We deep clean our home, so why not deep clean our bodies?

Annual or seasonal detoxification gives the body a tune-up. A spring cleanse can be part of a protocol to improve health or a component of overall wellness.

Why is detoxification important?

Every day we are exposed to toxins in air, water, food and our environment, from new carpet and old upholstery to cleaning products and air pollution. For most people, small doses cause cumulative damage rather than immediate symptoms. Continued exposure and/or reduced liver function can compromise natural detoxification systems, causing the body to store toxins rather than eliminate them.

Accumulation of toxins in the body can lead to general malaise or specific health problems, including fatigue, hormone imbalance, decreased mental acuity, skin and digestive conditions, food and chemical sensitivities, joint and muscle pain. Clearing toxins from the body often relieves symptoms and renews wellness and vitality.

The liver is the primary organ responsible for changing toxic chemicals into compounds that the body can excrete through the bowels and kidneys. An ideal detoxification program optimizes liver function, reduces exposure to toxins and enhances elimination pathways.

One component of the detox program I developed for my patients is a hypoallergenic diet designed to reduce exposure to irritating foods. It can be challenging to follow a restrictive diet but meals don't have to be boring and bland.

To demonstrate how easy and delicious detox-friendly meals can be, and to support my patients participating in a spring cleanse, I am posting hypoallergenic and anti-inflammatory recipes on my food blog, The Naturopathic Gourmet. Every week for 4 weeks, I will post a new recipe. Together, they will create a four-course detox-friendly menu that is simple and satisfying, nutritious and delicious.

Spring Cleanse Menu 

Portabella Paté
Leek Pea Soup
Salad of Young Dandelion Greens with Raspberry Balsamic Vinaigrette
Coconut Quinoa with Cherries

Find these recipes on The Naturopathic Gourmet.