At the beginning of January there is a massive emphasis on detoxing etc. There are many plans, teas and supplements on the market to help you quickly ‘detox’. I would recommend avoiding these. We have a liver and kidneys that are more than capable of detoxing our systems naturally each day.
The way we act and eat over the festive season is not how we tend to live every other day of the year. So, by just reverting to how you were before December your body will naturally cleanse itself.
Increase your water intake and make sure you are taking in at least two litres a day.
Add lots of non-starchy green vegetables to your meals. It is what you add in to your daily diet, not necessarily what you take out, that helps.
When you include more nutrient dense foods, such as fresh vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats, you will balance your blood sugars and naturally help yourself to avoid sugar cravings.
Also, physical activity doesn’t need to be complicated. Something as simple as a daily brisk walk can help you live a healthier life.
Making the choice to include a walk everyday will naturally help you maintain a healthy weight, help prevent conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure and Type 2 Diabetes. It will also help strengthen your bones and muscles and
improve your mood.
Set yourself small achievable goals. These are far more rewarding and sustainable.
A great way to add more vegetables and nutrients to your diet is to make soup.
My pea and mint soup is very easy to make. On these cold days, it is nice to have something warming and full of flavour.
Pea and Mint Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil, rapeseed oil or coconut oil
- ½ white onion
- 1 large or 2 small cloves of garlic
- 2 spring onions
- 1 stick of celery
- A large handful of fresh mint
- 450 grams of frozen peas
- 750 ml vegetable stock – I use Dr Coy Vegetable Bouillon
Method
- Heat the oil in a pan.
- Finely chop onion, garlic, spring onions and celery.
- Add to the pan and cook for five minutes.
- Add the vegetable stock, peas and mint.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and place in blender.
- Carefully blend until desired consistency is achieved.
Enjoy served with some sourdough or rye bread!
Rosie McAuliffe Nutrition
rosiemcauliffenutrition.com
087 369 5097
rosie.mcauliffe@yahoo.com