Foods to consume to detox after Christmas celebrations

It is no secret that diets take a backseat during the festive season. It is normal for one’s healthy eating resolve to be weakened when surrounded by fried snacks and sweets. However, after having gorged on all the sweet cakes and alcohol during Christmas, our bodies do need to get back on track with a cleansing plan including nutritious meals. Below are some foods you can consume to balance out those extra calories you gained during Christmas.

Drinking at least 6-8 glasses of water every day helps to flush out toxins from the body. If 6-8 glasses of plain water seems too much to have, then detox water can be prepared by infusing cucumber, mint, and lemon in the water.

This should be the number one priority for at least the next month or so. Mostly, festive food is loaded with oil, extra salt, starch and sugar. Such food items may be tasty but are not always the healthiest option. Calories in home cooked meals can be controlled by tailoring the ingredients and oil used. Preparing nourishing meals at home such as lentils, salads or grilled foods can be a satisfying and healthy experience.

This is a great alternative for normal potatoes. Sweet potatoes is loaded with beta-carotene that boosts the immune system and gives the body the energy it requires while increasing the metabolic rate.

Add unsweetened yogurt to your meals and give a probiotic detox to your body. You can eaither pair it up with your lunch or just eat it as a standalone snack. Yogurt has medicinal benefits as it provides protein, calcium, vitamins D, B6, B12, riboflavin, potassium and magnesium.

Cold-water fishes like salmon, mackerel and sardines contain good fats that reduce inflammation and boost immune functioning. They contain Omega-3 fatty acids, which helps to increase metabolism.

Winter is a great time to consume those green leafy vegetables. One should include a portion of kale, broccoli, methi, spinach and lettuce in their diet, as they are rich in fiber and contain enzymes that help improve digestion.

Berries, guavas, oranges, pineapples are great sources of vitamins and generate heat during the cold season. They are rich in anti-oxidants and help in boosting immunity.

Striking a balance between what one eats during the festive season and after the celebration is over can actually make a significant difference. So, include some healthy food items in your diet and devote some time to exercise in order to detox properly after the festive season.

By: Rohit Shelatkar, VP at Vitabiotics, Fitness and Nutrition Expert