Lighten Up

Fix Your Plate by Tara Reeves

[submitted]
[submitted]

Spring is here and it’s time to lighten things up with some revitalising foods! As the temperature warms up and the days get longer, many of us are looking to boost our health and feel rejuvenated. Did you know that there are certain foods that can help support our liver and kidneys, which are responsible for removing toxins from our bodies? These foods can help us feel refreshed and energized, so let’s take a look at some of the best ones!

Leafy greens are amazing for helping our body feel renewed. Vegetables like kale, spinach and collards are packed with chlorophyll, which supports our liver in processing environmental toxins. Plus, they are a great source of fibre, which promotes healthy digestion and helps to control blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage are another group of rejuvenating foods. They contain compounds called glucosinolates, which our body converts into sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is a powerful ingredient that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce the risk of  some chronic diseases.

Beets are another fantastic food to add to your springtime menu. They are high in betaine, which supports our liver function and protects it from damage. Plus, beets are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including folate, vitamin C, iron and potassium.

Citrus fruits such as lemons, limes and grapefruits are also great foods to keep on hand for their refreshing flavours and high nutrient content. They are loaded with vitamin C, which is important for immune function, skin health and wound healing.

Berries like blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries are some of the best foods to eat when you want to freshen up your diet due to their high antioxidant properties which ​​help protect the body against cell damage caused by free radicals. 

Finding fresh asparagus in stores is a sure fire sign that spring has arrived. Asparagus is packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, K and folate which are important for immune function and skin health. Asparagus is also great for digestion due to its high fibre content and always makes a refreshing and light side dish, especially when it’s paired with other powerhouse ingredients like garlic and lemon.

Incorporating these revitalising foods into your diet can help support your body’s natural processes and help you feel your best. Remember that a balanced, whole-foods diet is key, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healthy eating. It’s important to listen to your body and give it what it needs to thrive. Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated is also crucial for overall health and vitality.

As the days get longer and warmer, take the opportunity to try new recipes and experiment with different fruits and vegetables. Incorporating a variety of fresh produce into your meals can help keep things interesting and ensure that you are getting a wide range of nutrients. Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and try new flavour combinations.

Overall, making small changes to your diet and eating with the seasons can have a big impact on your health and well-being. By adding more of these nourishing foods into your meals, you are bound to feel refreshed and energised this spring.