Detoxing for Self-care

Once a year, just before my June birthday, I complete a detox. It began as a way to enter a new year feeling my best, taking a pause and being more conscious about what I consume, and it’s become a spring ritual that I’ve continued. I detox to let my digestive system rest and my body restore.

Detoxes come in all varieties, and fasting is not part of my approach. I choose instead to focus on plant-based whole foods, removing pre-packaged items as much as possible, reducing my caffeine intake, drinking plenty of water, and being even more conscious of rest. I do not believe in deprivation. Instead, eat until you're full. Have a snack when you need one. Take pleasure in your meals.

There are many reasons to give your digestive system a break, including mental clarity, brighter skin, and increased energy levels. If I’m feeling bloated, moody, and fatigued, I know it’s time to let my body restore. A good place to start is taking a mental inventory on what you’ve been eating and consider the right time for you to push the pause button. (Hint: The holidays are not the time.) 

Common foods to avoid while detoxing: 

• Meat

• Seafood

• Dairy

• Ultra-processed foods

• Alcohol

• Caffeine (more on this later)

• Refined sugar

• Gluten

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Instead, you want to consume organic vegetables and fruits, beans, legumes, nuts, seeds, and grains. I know this list can seem limiting for some, but I promise that beautiful, delicious, and filling meals can be created with these wholesome ingredients.

A word on caffeine…

Whether or not to cut caffeine completely depends on the length of your detox and the amount of caffeine you consume per day. Removing caffeine all at once is not recommended. If you’ve ever tried this approach, you’ll know that it’s a killer.  I love espresso and typically drink a double in the morning and a single after lunch. For a 7-day detox, I replace my afternoon coffee with green tea for the first 3 days and an herbal afternoon tea for the remaining four days. On the 4th day, I cut my morning double to a single. For a 14- or 21-day detox, I would use a similar approach, weaning myself slowly from the morning coffee as well.

A few things to consider…

• Stay hydrated

• Water is your best option, and you want to drink a lot of it. You can infuse water with fruits and herbs for added flavor, and set reminders to drink throughout the day.

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• Eat mindfully

• Avoid distractions while eating. Mindful eating can help foster a healthier relationship with food and promote a greater appreciation for the nourishment it provides.

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• Move your body

• Physical activity will help reduce cravings, encourage the body's natural detoxification processes, improve circulation, and boost mood. I especially encourage gentle forms of movement such as yoga and walking.

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• Reflect

• Detoxes aren’t just about the food you consume. Take time to journal, meditate, and consider reducing the time spent on social media.

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Depending on your current eating habits, you may experience detox symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, or irritability, especially during the first few days. It’s important to make time to rest and practice self-care.