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Todays modern lifestyle and patterns of eating, stress, lack of exercise and sufficient rest lead to run down immune systems and metabolism.

To correct this one needs to cleanse (often called a detox) the body. Here are a few ways of kick off your detox:

Drink 3-4 litres water a day, starting with 500ml straight after you wake up.
Diet: Cut out caffeine as much as possible, reduce sugar intake (sugar in coffee/teas, chocolates, cakes fruit juices), cut out fried foods – opt for grilled instead.
Reduce wheat intake – such as bread and baked produce.
Increase your protein consumption – eat 1-1.5grams of protein per kg body weight.
Eat the right carbs – your body needs good energy sources such as rice, bran, oats and potatoe(small quantities as potatoes have a high sugar content)
Don’t eat left over food!
Eat regularly, small meals every 3 hours
Foods high in fibre are important to get your metabolism going: brans, salads, vegetables, nuts and beans
Get more exercise! start with walking or running, walking the dog an extra 30 minutes a day, going to the gym.

These small changes will start your bodies own processes for healing itself. Often to give your body an additional boost the the following items could help. It is recommended to visit your dietitian for a complete assessment:

Digestive Enzymes: available at health stores and pharmacies. If your body cannot break down foods correctly then give these will assist your digestive system. Take 30 minutes before a meal for 1-2 weeks.
Good multivitamin & an Omega 3,6 and 9 supplement (Flaxseed & Rosemary oil)
Antioxidants: Vitamin A,C and E. Other foods rich in antioxidants worth noting: Goji Berrys, carrots, tomatoes, spinach and broccoli.
Protein supplement or a meal replacement shake (can be taken at tea/coffee times instead of tea/coffee)
Use soy milk as an alternate to cow’s milk.

In part 3 I will cover exercise and the benefits it brings! Email me at em@halomail.co.za if you have any questions or leave a comment below.