Spring foods for healthy lymph and liver
Studies show that our dietary phytochemical intake greatly influences our body’s capacity to neutralize infection. Meaning to say, the more plant foods we eat, the more we support healthy immunity, reduce inflammation, and promote the body’s natural defenses against viruses and bacteria.
Leafy greens in particular help the lymphatic system to detoxify and keep our immune response strong.
Bright yellow foods and spices such as turmeric and winter squash are also impressive in terms of reducing inflammation and combating illness at its onset.
We are moving into the spring season here in Vermont, which encourages us to get outside, move more, and perhaps dig in the dirt. Not only does this movement help the lymphatic system to cleanse itself, it also wakes up the liver and supports its detoxification process after the long winter.
Foods that support liver health include beets, celery, turmeric, fenugreek green tea, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale, collards, cabbage, Brussels sprouts), garlic, citrus, walnuts, and olive oil. These foods are also excellent at helping to flush lymph.
I encourage you to include these foods in your diet and especially focus on increasing your leafy green intake. The healthier our gut, the better we ward off illness, maintain mental health, and feel energized.
Try these recipes to inspire your spring cooking.