Summer Daily Detox

 Detox your eating habits and feel fantastic this summer-

I’ve noticed that the word Detox is used very loosely these days. After trying many "detox' diets over the years, I decided that aggressive cleansing is too extreme for my body and can sometimes do more harm than good. This is all relative since I believe we must listen to our body’s individual needs and find what works best for you. That said, to me "detox" means reducing exposure to ingredients and foods that can potentially be toxic for my system as much as possible. The great thing is when I do, I look and feel so much better. With summer in full swing, of course we want to look and feel our best! For me that starts with my daily nutritional consumption.

Here is what I try to do on a daily basis -

Green Juice!!!!

Oh how I love this morning ritual! Mine usually consists of - Kale, Celery, Cucumber, Carrot, Apple, Ginger and Lemon.

This cleansing juice is perfect for a gentle daily detox. Kale is low in calories, super high in fiber, and has zero fat. It also is very rich in folate, magnesium, and tons of other vitamins and nutrients. Celery has a high vitamin K content, as well as folate, vitamin A, fiber, and Vitamin C, while carrots are known for being rich in beta carotene. Apples add that delicious sweetness, but are also high in antioxidants, flavanoids, and dietary fiber as well (are we seeing a pattern here?! I <3 fiber). Cucumbers are a good source of Vitamin A, C, K and Potassium, as well as Pantothenic Acid, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Manganese. Finally, the immune boosting power of Ginger and Lemon help me feel at my very best. This nutritional punch can aid in glowing skin, and purifies my system which for me = reduction of hormonal break outs and unwanted cravings.

Skip those starches

I try to go easy on starchy foods in the summer because they can leave you feeling bloated, heavy and even cause you to put on extra pounds, which - let's be real, we all want to keep off during bikini season! If I eat starches I try to do proper food combining meaning I eat carbs and proteins separately. Proteins and carbohydrates require different enzymes for digestion, so if you separate the two, it expedites the digestive process.

Leafy Greens

The more greens you eat, the better! Eat a salad with every meal or as a meal. In the summertime, the more veggies you consume, the more you will end up craving them because it is natural for your body to want fresh fruits and greens in the warmer months. I usually dress my salads with Himalayan Pink Salt, Organic Olive Oil and Lemon - the best and healthiest option with the least amount of calories. Nowadays, there is an abundance of farmer's markets everywhere. Even if you live in a busy city, make the extra effort to get your veggies on and you will feel lighter and more energetic!