Every year we get excited about the rebirth of spring. We can hardly wait to open up the windows to let the stale air out and the fresh air in! It's been a long winter and we are ready to welcome a brighter, new season.
For many of us, spring seems to be the best time to declutter and give our homes a deeper cleaning. This freshening up of our space creates a healthier home, and can give us a wonderful feeling of accomplishment and a renewed sense of well-being.
But how many of us think about rejuvenating our bodies with the same enthusiasm each spring?
From pollution in our environment to convenience foods that are highly processed, our bodies can easily become overloaded. This is true for kids and adults alike and is something many of us overlook.
We accumulate extra toxins during the winter months because we typically spend much more time indoors. Because of our seasonal hibernation habits, we are getting less sunlight, fresh air, and exercise to better assist our body's natural detoxification process.
Getting rid of excess toxins is important for feeling our best, absorbing the nutrients from our foods, and maintaining a healthy body weight. We owe it to ourselves to apply the same healthy 'Spring Cleaning' principles to US as we do to our homes. Having this healthy mindset and practice is just what we need to help restore and revitalize our wonderful bodies.
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Spring can be a great time to focus on foods that eliminate toxins, strengthen the immune system, and revive our energy.
To get started, just like opening the windows, open up the pantry and the refrigerator.
Here are 4 Tips to help with your family's 'Spring Cleaning for a Healthy Body' healthy lifestyle goals:
Tip #1
Try to be mindful when it comes to eating processed, packaged foods, and to work towards eating more whole foods...foods in their natural state.
Unlike most processed foods, natural foods that are fiber-rich help to satisfy our appetites, bind toxins, and cleanse our systems.
Tip #2
Aim for eating your 'rainbow foods'. Take advantage of seasonal changes, choosing colorful spring vegetables like lettuce, baby carrots, beets, green beans, peas, broccoli and asparagus.
Easy ways to get your rainbow foods:
Get familiar with the best local grocers to get the freshest, most reasonably-priced produce, and better yet, check out the farmers markets in your area. You can support your local vendors, while also teaching your kids about healthy eating through this fun family activity.
Try planting a small garden. You can use pots or window boxes if you have limited space. It can be so rewarding for both you and the kids in your family to be able to grow, prepare and eat your own fresh food. Fun Fact: Picky eaters are more likely to try a new food when they have had a hand in helping to grow and/or prepare it. Your picky eater may surprise you!
If you want to up your healthy produce game and further support your local vendors, consider joining a Co-op if there's one near you. It can be really fun to either choose or be surprised with the seasonal produce found in your regular pick-up box of fruits and veggies.
There are now several great produce home delivery services to choose from, making it easier than ever to get these healing color foods front and center for your family.
Tip #3
Be sure to drink plenty of pure, clean water as part of a healthy lifestyle. As the most important nutrient, water not only keeps us hydrated, but it also does the essential job of flushing toxins from our bodies.
Tip #4
Remember that along with our physical bodies, it's important to cleanse our minds. It might be tough with our busy lives, but striving to find a balance that includes healthy exercise, rest, and relaxation is vital to support our best health.
Try this nutritious and delicious smoothie for breakfast, snack, or anytime!
Scrumptious Spring Smoothie Recipe
4 large strawberries, fresh or frozen (organic = no pesticides)
1/2 cup almond milk (or other tolerated milk substitute)
1 ripe banana
5 ice cubes
1 teaspoon honey (optional)
Put all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth.
Enjoy!
Need some help getting your picky eater on board with your cleaner eating routine?
Check out the Build a Better Eater guidebook to help with your picky eater!
All blog content shared through HealthSmart! Kids is for informational purposes only and not to be construed as medical advice. Always talk with your qualified health care provider for managing your health care needs.
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