Spring is in the Air

Can you feel it? Spring is in the air.

Do you love it as much as I do?

I always think of spring as a fresh new start. A new start to me means eating healthier and moving more, especially if I can get outside in nature.

Let’s begin this spring by doing just that.

I've got some ways you can shed the heaviness of winter and put a spring in your step. (pun intended)

Start your spring detox by trying a juice fast. Don't worry, it's only for one day. You simply devote one day to drinking only fresh juice and water to give the digestive system a rest. Try to drink only juice from fresh, organically grown fruits and vegetables - with an emphasis on vegetables. Drink at least four eight to 12 ounce glasses of juice plus plenty of pure water (at least four eight-ounce glasses per day).

Here's a simple juice recipe that I use on a regular basis:

3 whole carrots

3 celery stalks

1 beet with the green tops

1 green apple

1 tomato

1 handful of raw baby spinach

Be sure to drink homemade juice within an hour of making it - otherwise, its nutritional value will deteriorate.

Along with a spring dietary detox, you can also do a chemical detox by doing these simple things:

Check your medications - Certain common drugs or combinations of drugs can damage the liver, especially if you take higher doses than recommended and drink alcohol. These medications can include acetaminophen (Tylenol) and cholesterol-lowering medications (statins). If you're concerned about your use of these drugs, please see your health care provider to discuss alternatives.

Use supplements wisely - Some supplements can have liver-damaging effects.

Clear the air - Chemicals found in pesticides, herbicides, volatile solvents, paint, and other aerosol spray products can damage the liver.

Other ways to detox include the following:

Be active - Regular physical activity helps the body eliminate toxins in sweat; exercise also promotes a healthy weight. You are at higher risk for developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) - which can lead to cirrhosis - if you are overweight or obese.

Sweat it out - The heat of a sauna or steam room boosts the temperature of your body, causing blood vessels to dilate and circulation in the skin to increase. The heat can also ease muscle stiffness, and you may notice an increase in energy, a decrease in stress, and improved sleep.

Whatever you do, find some time to move every day. Getting out in the fresh air will improve your mood and refresh your soul.

Always...Take Care of You!