Naturopathic Tips for a healthy spring

Spring is on the way, the flower buds are opening, the longer days and nights are returning and the comforting sound of birdsong is now a welcome sound. With this new season a lot of people start to think about a change in the way they are eating, and adopting healthier habits with food and movement- whether it is for health reasons or for helping with the waistband a little after the hibernation of winter.

Spring officially starts with the equinox on March 21st. In Chinese medicine this season governs the liver, the liver is responsible for carrying away waste products, metabolising fats, proteins and carbohydrates, enzyme activation and storage of glycogen, vitamins and minerals. This season offers us a great opportunity to offer extra nutritional support for this organ and start to incorporate more foods and juices that help to detoxify and nourish the liver.

If there are any health issues this is of even more importance and I recommend seeing a practitioner for more in-depth support.

Here are some common symptoms that appear if your liver is overburdened and needs some support:

• Weight gain

• Menstrual issues

• Mood swings

• Bloating and digestion issues

• Pain in the joints

• Inflammation

I have listed below some of my favourite springtime foods to give you a real health boost and encourage you to focus on your well-being. Also, my favourite juice that will give you a kickstart. If you feel ready to make a fresh start or need further advice, please contact me on my details below.

Foods that are naturally growing at this time of year will naturally support the body and what it needs nutritionally so think local and eat local if possible. Springtime foods to nurture you:

Asparagus, broad beans, peas, radishes, green beans, spring onions, courgettes, artichokes, apples, Carrots, cauliflower, cucumber, lettuce, purple sprouting broccoli, wild garlic, wild nettles, parsnip. Spinach and watercress.

Have a look round your local farm markets and peruse what’s on offer.

Minty green juice

In a juicer blend

• ½ cucumber

• 5 stalks of celery

• Handful of mint

• Half lemon