The more you eat with the seasons and focus on nutritious, whole foods, the more your body naturally moves away from “bad” foods. Why do we consume foods filled with chemicals and then try to detox ourselves afterward? If we nourished our organs properly, our bodies would detox naturally every day. And if we accept that holidays will always come around, maybe we could maintain good health year-round instead of using celebrations as an excuse for unhealthy habits. As humans, we often know what’s right but do the opposite. As a Naturopathic Doctor, I recognize these challenges, which is why I focus on education.
Winter naturally draws us toward cozy, warming foods to combat the cold. It’s the perfect time to master stews, broths, sautés, and roasted vegetables, especially roots and warming herbs. Starchy vegetables like purple sweet potatoes, beans, squash, and peas are satisfying and grounding. Gluten free grains such as amaranth and millet are ideal for baking or adding to soups. Nuts and seeds also help us stay centered when we’re indoors more often. For quick soups, roast assorted vegetables and blend them with broth or plant milk, adding ginger, turmeric, thyme, basil, or dill for flavor and warmth.
The holidays often mean too much sugar and alcohol, which can strain our systems. To manage blood sugar and cravings naturally, focus on fiber and hydration. Fiber keeps you full and stabilizes blood sugar, while dehydration can trick you into craving sweets or carbs. Stay hydrated with mineral based electrolytes that are free of added sugars to help your body absorb water efficiently. Proper hydration supports the kidneys, while protein should be moderate, about the size of your palm.
Alcohol can also tax the liver. In Chinese Medicine, we “course the liver” by eating dark leafy greens, which help the liver function more effectively. Consuming greens before drinking may even reduce alcohol cravings. Sour flavors such as lemon, lime, and cranberries further support liver health.
Other organs benefit from specific foods as well. The heart thrives on bitter foods like beets and arugula. Onions and garlic, shaped like little lungs, support the respiratory system. Naturally sweet foods such as pumpkin and yams strengthen the spleen and aid digestion, while salty foods like seaweed and water chestnuts help nourish the kidneys.
At Wellness Matters, our healthy, plant-based cooking classes focus on anti-inflammatory, dairy free, gluten free, and nightshade free meals. You’ll learn to create delicious, nutrient dense dishes that truly make food your medicine. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, join us to cook, eat, and connect with others. Feed your cells this holiday season and fuel your life!
This article was featured on: et week media
