Winter is brutal on your body. I know it’s definitely brutal on mine! I’m tired of the cold temps, gray days and mud all over.  So I’ve learned to take extra special care of my body during this season of bugs, illness, close quarters, and crazy commitments.  My plan includes eating seasonal foods that support and promote detoxification. The foods with best nutrient density will be those seasonal foods that are naturally grown during this time of year (does anything grow in Wisconsin during the winter?!), and your body needs these nutritional heavyweights to promote the process of detoxification.

Sharing some of my favorite winter foods that aid in the detoxification process. They are seasonal, delicious and nutritious, and provide the antioxidants necessary to guard against free radicals and toxins. (And I’ve been loading up on them this week to beat the scratchy throat I’ve been experiencing…thankfully it’s only me and not the hubby and kids who are having this challenge.)

Collard Greens

High in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including magnesium and manganese. They are best steamed or sautéed with some garlic and crushed red pepper.

Garlic

The sulfur compounds in garlic are responsible for its pungent odor and taste. They also pack a wide variety of health benefits, including antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties.

Almonds

High in manganese, magnesium and vitamin E. They are versatile and tasty; throw them in a vegetable dish, a casserole, your cereal, or a salad.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower is beneficial for its anti-cancer properties. It also contains glucosinolates that help activate enzyme detoxification. Cauliflower has sulfur-containing nutrients and antioxidants that help boost the body’s capacity for detoxification.

Pepper, Cumin, Turmeric, Fennel, and Ginger

These spices are essential in the detoxification process. They exhibit immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties and, when you pair them with detox-enhancing foods, they can get your body’s detox engine revving.

Lentils

Lentils provide the insoluble and soluble fibers that are perfect for stabilizing blood sugar. They also provide support to the intestines, especially during the detoxification process.

Kale

Yes, it’s on my list all year long. LOL! This is one of the truest superfoods with a ton of detox-supporting nutrients. It has anti-oxidant, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties and may even help improve your cardiovascular health.

Beets

Beets are an essential source of phytonutrients known as betalains. They provide detoxification support and anti-inflammatory benefits.  Find a way to like them!  While it’s taken me years, they are now a regular in my diet (have discovered I love them in juices with lots of extra lime).

Onions

Don’t over-peel these beauties because you might be tossing out their important flavonoids, which act as phytonutrient powerhouses. The flavonoids are actually concentrated right in the outer layer of the flesh. Moreover, these are high in manganese; vitamins C, B9 and B6; and they are an essential source of potassium.  I LOVE ONIONS!  And I’m thankful I have at least one kid that does too.

Limes and Lemons

Limes and lemons are loaded with vitamin C. These citrus fruits also contain flavonoid compounds that provide anti-cancer and anti-oxidant benefits.  Add them to your water all winter long.

 

Cabbage

Cabbage’s antioxidant properties make it a must to eat for winter detox. It is an anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer food that is also a great source of vitamins A and C. The polyphenol content of cabbage is different and will depend on the varieties that you eat. That’s why you need to mix green, red and Savoy varieties.

These seasonal foods are easy to find, easy to prepare, and easy to help  you detox. They are delicious by themselves or combine many of them in a soup. Take your winter comfort food to the next level with some detoxifying powerhouses!

My last winter detox group for this season kicks off THURSDAY March 1st, 2018.  Who will be joining us?  You can view the details and signup on my website.

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