As spring approaches, many people naturally start reaching for lighter meals, more greens and simpler everyday food. We spoke with nutrition specialist Deimantė Rapalytė-Kuliešienė about what a sensible "detox" can mean without fasting or extreme restrictions.
What does detoxification actually mean?
The body continually processes and removes metabolic waste through the liver, kidneys, digestive system, lungs and skin. A healthy reset therefore does not need to involve fasting or a restrictive cleanse. A more practical approach is to reduce heavily processed foods, alcohol and excess added sugar while bringing more vegetables, berries, whole grains and water back into the daily diet.
Why do people often change their diet in spring?
Spring brings a wider choice of fresh greens and seasonal vegetables, which makes variety easier. Changes are usually easier to maintain when they are gradual: add more colours of vegetables, eat regular meals, drink enough fluids and keep a consistent sleep routine.
What should you focus on?
A varied daily plate can include vegetables, pulses, grains, nuts, seeds and berries. Plant powders are another convenient way to add different ingredients to porridge or smoothies. Current Urbanfood options include organic beetroot powder, organic broccoli powder, organic wild blueberry powder and strawberry powder.
How long should a detox last?
If the goal is to build healthier habits, there is no need for a fixed end date. A few realistic changes maintained consistently are more useful than several days of severe restriction followed by a return to old habits.
A simple smoothie idea
Blend an apple, a small piece of beetroot, a handful of strawberries and blueberries, a celery stalk, a banana and enough water to reach your preferred consistency. Fresh ingredients can also be supplemented with a small amount of the corresponding Urbanfood powders.
If you have a medical condition, take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss major dietary changes with a doctor or qualified nutrition professional.
