Detox 101

by Karen Gilman

Registered Holistic Nutritionist
www.nutrilicious.ca


Why detox?

The basic idea behind a ‘detox diet or cleanse' is that the modern world puts so much stress on our bodies that the natural detoxification mechanisms in place in our bodies cannot keep up the demands.  "Detoxing" refers to taking extra measures to ensure that your body rids itself of this ‘toxic load’.

What is a toxin?

"A toxin is a chemical or poison that is known to have harmful effects on the body. These toxins can come from food, water or the chemicals used to grow the food or even the air we breathe. Our bodies process these toxins through the liver and kidneys and eliminate them in the form of sweat, urine and poop."

A ‘toxic’ food is one that is processed or genetically modified and contains additives, refined sugar and flour, food dyes and artificial sweeteners.

The body itself produces toxins or waste through biochemical and cellular activities and eliminates them through everyday functions.  These toxic substances are called free radicals and an accumulation of them in the body is considered a common factor in disease.

What to avoid when detoxing:

Processed foods that contain additives or sugar that can interfere with metabolism and blood-sugar levels.

Common allergens like dairy, eggs, soy, shellfish and nuts.  Also avoid less common allergen foods like the nightshade family of vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers and eggplant as they may have an inflammatory effect on the body.

Gluten grains such as wheat, spelt, barley and rye may have an inflammatory effect on some people and should be eliminated for a few days. 

Caffeine, alcohol, drugs or over the counter medication that place additional stress on the liver.

For more information on which foods to choose to help your body detox consider a consultation with Karen Gilman at the Pinewood Natural Health Centre.

Dedicated to healthy eating for more than 25 years, Karen Gilman is passionate about helping others eat well and love what they eat. Karen graduated from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition in 2011 where she received a diploma in Natural Nutrition. Karen is also a certified food handler and a member of the Canadian Association of Holistic Nutrition Professionals.

                     

You can make an appointment at the Pinewood Natural Health Centre with Karen Gilman by emailing

toronto@pinewoodhealth.ca 

or

Phone: (416) 656-8100 

Notes About Metabolism Boosting Snacks

By Karen Gilman, BA, RHN  (Registered Holistic Nutritionist)

Your metabolism is determined by genes, sex, age, hormone levels, body composition and as well activity levels. You can increase your metabolism naturally by eating certain foods:

Egg whites are rich in branched-chain amino acids, which keep your metabolism elevated. Eggs are also loaded with protein and vitamin D.  Choose organic, free-range ages as they are the most humane.

Chili peppers contain capsaicin, a compound that can kick your metabolism up a notch. Add a tablespoon of chopped chili peppers to a meal once a day.

Green tea contains the polyphenol EGCG, a component believed to boost metabolism. Green tea is also packed with cancer-fighting compounds that can benefit anyone’s diet, at any age.

Whole grains help your body burn more fat because they take more effort to break down than processed grains. Whole grain foods that are rich in fiber like brown rice and oatmeal are good choices.

Iron-rich foods are essential as iron helps transport oxygen to tissues throughout the body which helps our bodies make energy. Low iron levels can lead to fatigue, loss of appetite, anemia and it can slow down your metabolism. Foods rich in iron include oysters, mussels, beef, lamb, fish and poultry. Plant sources of iron include pumpkin seeds, lentils, tofu, chickpeas and other beans.

Some other tips:

• Don’t forget to drink lots of water. If you're mildly dehydrated, your metabolism may slow down.
• Don’t restrict your caloric intake.  If you consume a very low calorie diet you are not providing your body with enough energy so that it can satisfy its basic needs.
• Some metabolism boosting snacks:
• 1⁄4 c of sunflower or pumpkin seeds, raw if you can find them
• 1 sliced cucumber with sea salt and a dash of cayenne pepper
• Celery with 2 tablespoons tahini or other nut butters

Feel like eating something delicious and sweet? Here’s a recipe for homemade granola bars:

No Bake Granola Bars

2 cups quick-cook oats, uncooked
2/3 cup dates, chopped
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup tahini
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla
1 tbsp chia seeds

Process the dates in a food processor until well chopped.  Add the remaining ingredients and process until smooth. Spread the mixture in a square baking pan and refrigerate until firm.  Cut into squares and enjoy.

Dedicated to healthy eating for more than 25 years, Karen Gilman is passionate about helping others eat well and love what they eat. Karen graduated from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition in 2011 where she received a diploma in Natural Nutrition. Karen is also a certified food handler and a member of the Canadian Association of Holistic Nutrition Professionals.

                     

You can make an appointment at the Pinewood Natural Health Centre with Karen Gilman by emailing

toronto@pinewoodhealth.ca 

or

Phone: (416) 656-8100