Spring is just around the corner! Can you feel it? I certainly can.

The transition from winter to spring is one filled with excitement and a shift in attitudes.  We start moving out of the hibernation mode of winter, and into a more active mindset. Along with this, many people start feeling like they want to shed the heaviness of winter and its foods. Doing a gentle spring cleanse is a perfect way to switch out of winter mode.

In Chinese medicine, spring is the time of the liver, so I tend to focus my spring cleanse protocols not only on cleaning up diet, but also supporting the functionality of the liver. The liver is involved in many metabolic processes in the body. Everyday exposure to toxins, pesticides, alcohol, refined sugars and saturated fats can cause the liver to become sluggish. However, the liver is a resilient organ and with the proper treatment, can be brought back to its optimal state.

Here are a few tips for treating your liver well:

Clean up your diet.  This is the first and most important step to cleanse your liver. There are a few things you need to avoid in order to cleanse your liver including, refined sugars, saturated fats (red meat, dairy products) and alcohol.  Pick at least a two-week period where you will be able to cut these foods out from your diet. Follow a diet filled with vegetables, fruits and whole grains. This provides the proper nutrients to help protect the liver. Some specific examples of foods that protect the liver are:

  • The brassica family including broccoli and Brussels sprouts.
  • Beets are another vegetable that the liver loves!

Other simple steps for liver love:

  • Lemon water: Half a lemon in one glass of water, drink first thing in the morning before consuming anything else.
  • Milk thistle or dandelion tea: both of these herbs are supportive and protective for the liver.

These tips are a great start, however cleansing programs are designed to fit each person individually.  I would be happy to guide you in starting your spring cleanse off on the right foot! Email me at lisa@360healingcentre.com or call 416-360-1300 to book your cleanse consultation today.

By: Lisa Knapper, ND