Good News for People Who Hate Cleanses
Sarah Britton is a Toronto-born, Copenhagen-based holistic nutritionist. Her blog, My New Roots, has earned her the title of Quinoa Queen, but as we learned when talking to her for our new year’s health series, Britton’s knowledge goes way beyond ancient grains. And no, we’re not going to talk about kale, either.
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"Going to extremes is not the answer," says nutritionist Sarah Britton. Thank God, because we were extreme enough two nights ago, and we can’t take any more.
Britton, though, is talking about fasting, and as people who love to eat, we’re happy she’s not in favor of eschewing solid food—at least this time of year. “Our bodies need food to keep us warm and nourished for the cold winter months ahead.” So how to readjust your system after all that damage you did this holiday season without resorting to daily doses of chicken broth?
1. Begin every day with a cup of warm water and fresh lemon juice. The concoction will flush the digestive system, stimulate the liver and kidneys, and alkalinize the whole body. (Really, do this every day from now on. Miracles will happen.)
2. For one week, eat meals composed mainly of brown rice, steamed vegetables, miso broth and seaweed. You can do it! Especially because ginger and cayenne pepper are allowed, meaning so is flavor.
3. Drink water! You know this already, but DO IT. At least 2 liters a day. It filters all those toxins out of your organs, and, as if you needed another reason, it boosts your metabolism.
4. Avoid sugar, fried foods, meats, dairy products, and “anything in a box, bag or bottle!” As far as exercise goes, keep the intensity low—say yes to yoga and sauna sessions.
Peep My New Roots for more information on navigating your weeklong cleanse.
