Friday, December 28, 2012

christmas dinnerMuch as we look forward to the Christmas excesses – the turkey or goose, divine sauces, richly cooked root vegetables, cream-laden desserts and of course Christmas drinks – by the end of Boxing Day many of us are already craving something a bit healthier. 

Of course, with eating out during the holidays and New Year celebrations already on the horizon, this is no time to start a full-blown diet. However, being aware of your choices can help you to ring the changes in your diet. For example, choosing a healthier lunch to off-set any eating out in the evening prevents the famine/feast cycle or continued over-eating; while choosing a satsuma instead of another chocolate gives a host of health benefits.

Here are a few healthier foods which are commonly suggested for detox diets. The good news is, they are still valuable food choices within a normal diet, so there’s no need to go for an extreme detox, just make a few sensible choices along the way.

  1. Fresh fruit – Fruit is low in calories but high in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre. Try to consume a variety of fruits during the day, including some at breakfast.
  2. Green tea – Green tea is a good weight-loss drink which is also very high in antioxidants. It has been reported that green tea can help to combat fatty liver disease.
  3. Watercress – Watercress leaves contain several B vitamins, zinc, potassium, vitamin E and vitamin C and their diuretic properties can help to flush toxins out the body. Good in soup, salad or sandwiches.
  4. Lemon – As a citrus fruit, lemon is particularly high in antioxidant vitamin C. It also has an alkaline effect so it can help restore the body’s PH and boost immune system. Try drinking hot water with a slice of lemon in the morning to help cleanse your system
  5. Ginger – Can help improve digestion, calming nausea, bloating and gas and is also good for boosting the immune system.
  6. Garlic – Garlic is antiviral, antibacterial and antibiotic. It is best eaten raw, for example in a salad dressing.
  7. Artichoke – Steamed globe artichoke leaves are full of fibre and antioxidants and can also aid digestion, as artichoke is known for improving the liver’s function.
  8. Beetroot – A famous “superfood”, beetroot contains magnesium and iron as well as high concentrations of vitamin C. As well as “detox”, beetroot is said to benefit skin, hair and cholesterol levels. Best consumed raw (e.g. in salad) or in a juice form to preserve the goodness
  9. Cabbage – Cabbage contains sulforaphane, which helps the body fight against toxins as well as an antioxidant that helps improve the detoxifying function of the liver.
  10. Brown rice – Brown rice is rich in B vitamins as well as being high in fibre and a variety of detox and health-improving nutrients.

Clinicbe® London

Dr Kubicka, founder and Director of Clinicbe® in London, firmly believes in the power of diet and lifestyle to transform patients’ health and skin.

As part of her private consultation for skin treatments such as botox® and fillers, patients can expect to receive individual advice on dietary changes and choices which can help to deliver good skin as well as health benefits.

To learn more, please contact us to arrange a  private consultation with Dr Barbara Kubicka to discuss your requirements in confidence and without obligation. It’s an excellent opportunity to benefit from expert advice on skincare, whatever your area of concern.

Please contact us on 0207 125 0521 or email info@clinicbe.com.

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