We’ve all experienced it: the holiday season filled with candy, cookies, and rich foods. It’s dreamy until the aftermath hits us – bloat, digestive issues, and inflammation.
Toxins are everywhere, from the food we eat to the products we use, but our bodies are well-equipped to handle them. To reduce inflammation and return to optimal health, a natural detox is essential. Here are some ideas to detox and maintain whole body health going into the new year.
1) Intermittent Fasting for Cellular Renewal
Intermittent fasting has surged in popularity and all of us at Morningside Naturals are advocates for this simple practice. Intermittent fasting involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting, with various methods available.
One of the experts we lean on for our information is Dr. Will Cole, a leading functional medicine expert. Dr. Cole advocates for intermittent fasting, noting its potential to rejuvenate the body’s cellular processes and support overall health.
One of the most compelling benefits of intermittent fasting is its ability to initiate autophagy, a natural process where cells clean out damaged components and regenerate newer, healthier ones. This cellular “housekeeping” is crucial for maintaining a healthy body and preventing various diseases.
Dr. Cole and other health professionals have noted that intermittent fasting can enhance heart health, lower blood pressure, and even reduce the risk of certain cancers, making it a powerful tool for cellular renewal and longevity .
For beginners, the 16/8 method is a popular and manageable approach. It involves fasting for 16 hours (including sleep time) and eating all meals within an 8-hour window. This method is flexible and can be adjusted to fit individual schedules and needs.
Personalization and safety are key; it’s important to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new dietary regimen. Adequate hydration, nutrient-rich foods during eating periods, and gradual changes are essential for a safe and effective fasting experience.
2) Utilize Movement to encourage natural states of detox
Engaging in regular physical activity is a vital part of any detox plan. Movement aids in detoxification by stimulating the lymphatic system, which helps the body eliminate toxins. Additionally, exercise enhances blood circulation and digestion, further supporting the body’s natural detox processes.
For those just starting, low-impact activities like walking, yoga, or swimming are excellent choices. More active individuals might consider jogging, cycling, or a dance class to elevate their heart rate and enjoy a more intense detoxifying effect. Remember, the key is consistency and enjoyment; find an activity that you look forward to and fits your lifestyle.
Set yourself a simple, achievable goal to start, such as a 15-minute walk each day or a yoga class twice a week. Gradually increase the intensity and duration as your fitness improves. Remember, every step counts towards a healthier, more vibrant you.
3) Prioritize daily hydration
Water plays an integral role in the body’s natural detoxification system, aiding in waste removal and supporting vital organ functions. Staying well-hydrated is critical for a healthy detox, supporting processes such as bioactivation, conjugation, and the elimination of toxins .
Water is a natural detoxifier, helping eliminate waste and toxins through urine and sweat. This not only supports the immune system in fighting off infections but also bolsters the body’s defense mechanisms, ensuring a thorough internal cleanse.
To make hydration more enjoyable, consider infusing water with slices of fruits like lemon, cucumber, or berries. Setting regular reminders to drink water or carrying a reusable water bottle can also encourage more frequent hydration. Additionally, incorporating hydrating foods such as watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges into your diet can contribute to your overall fluid intake.
4) Eat intentionally
Mindful eating is about more than just slowing down at mealtimes; it’s a holistic approach that changes how you relate to food on a fundamental level. Mindful eating focuses on eating without distractions such as technology allowing you to chew thoroughly and listen to your body while you eat.
The core benefits of mindful eating include enhanced digestion and an overall boost to health. By paying close attention to the texture, taste, and your body’s signals of hunger and fullness, you can savor both your food and the eating experience, leading to improved energy levels and mood . Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health’s Lilian Cheung highlights the practice’s myriad health benefits, noting that mindful eating supports well-being by encouraging individuals to consciously experience, enjoy, and express gratitude for their meals .
To practice mindful eating, start by eliminating distractions at mealtime. Turn off the TV, put away your phone, and focus on your food. Pay attention to the colors, smells, and textures, as well as how the food makes you feel. Chew slowly, acknowledging your body’s signals of hunger and fullness. Make it a ritual to appreciate the nourishment your food provides.
5) Start the day with Woodroot Tonic
Our entire team starts each day with a shot of Woodroot Tonic. The tonic is formulated to detox the body and eliminate inflammation in the gut.
When left unaddressed, inflammation in the gut can manifest itself into Anxiety, Bloating, Digestive Issues, Fatigue, Stress and a variety of other chronic symptoms that manifest in the body as a result of inflammation.
For optimal benefits to be felt, Woodroot Tonic needs to be taken daily for at least 30 days. We incorporate ours into our morning routine for consistency.
Natural products that use herbs for healing like Woodroot Tonic need to be taken consistently, because you are restoring your body to its natural state by providing concentrated nutrients. If you are more depleted for example it may take longer to restore your body's natural state than if you were consistently incorporating these types of herbs into your diet.
While all of Woodroot Tonic ingredients contribute to helping the body detox 3 stars shine when it comes to detoxing your body:
- Apple Cider Vinegar - ACV is well known for its ability to improve metabolism and digestive function while cleaning the liver and lymphatic system.
- Ginger - Ginger can improve digestion, alleviate indigestion, bloating, and gas.
- Cinnamon - Recognized for its ability to increase antioxidants in the blood that contribute to reducing bodily inflammation that can prevent natural detox.
Do you find yourself living day to day feeling puffy, bloated, backed up, or anxious? Detoxing the body could be the solution you’re looking for.
What can you do with this information?
We encourage you to order your monthly supply of Woodroot Tonic and integrate these practices into your daily life. Things as simple as a walk, hydration, and creating your own eating window can dramatically impact your health and add years of longevity to your life.