Detoxing doesn’t always mean only drinking juices for three days, or eating cabbage soup for every meal (no thank you!)—but doing something daily that helps make you healthier. We talked to Certified Health Coach and Nutrition Expert, Molly Alliman from Balance by Molly about beneficial habits to start in the New Year that don’t require a huge commitment, while allowing your body to get the nutrients it needs plus additional advantages. So instead of committing to an intense New Year’s detox or cleanse, treat your body well every single day with these simple tips.
Drink warm lemon water. First thing in the morning works best to flush your digestive system, and rehydrate. You can also try Apple Cider Vinegar which is also great for digestion and helps to cleanse the lymph nodes and break up mucus. For lemon, add a large squeeze to 12 oz of warm water. For Apple Cider Vinegar, add 1/2 tsp to 12 oz warm water.
Eat more fiber. We all know this, but we don’t do it. You should be eating 25-30 grams of fiber daily, but on average, we are eating about half of that! One of Molly’s favorite ways to get more fiber with breakfast is by having a smoothie with veggies, oatmeal with ground flax seeds, or chia seed pudding with berries. For lunch and dinner, add in more nuts, beans and whole grains into your diet—for example a quinoa bowl with black beans, sweet potato and avocado. Also, challenge yourself to incorporate a vegetable in every meal.
Dry Skin Brushing. An ancient Ayurveda practice using a special skin brush before bathing or showering. You can buy online or at your natural grocer (Whole Foods and Rainbow Market have them). Brush gently in small motions towards your heart to activate the lymphatic system, stimulate blood circulation and enhance elimination through our body’s largest organ—the skin!
Epsom Salt Baths. Taking an Epsom salt bath helps to draw out toxins, eases stress and improves sleep. Make sure to buy Epsom salt without added chemicals and with added essential oils such as lavender for maximum relaxation and relief.
Movement! Sweating is the best way to detox. Find what works best for you—yoga, hiking, walking, high impact, Pilates, etc. Try and move your body at least once a day, even if just for a short 20 minute walk or a 20 minute yoga flow.
Follow Molly and the Bay Club on Instagram for more nutrition tips!
2 Comments
I love this list, super great ideas!! I haven’t tried dry brushing much but I have heard great things about it!
When is the best time to do really sweaty exercise? I struggle to find the right morning/night balance sometimes. And it often depends on my schedule.
Hi Elle, thanks for your comment! We’re glad you enjoyed the post. There’s really no “best” time to workout—as long as you’re exercising, you’re doing great! Just find a time that works for you.