The VegNews Diet Detox

As the new year arrives, many Americans will focus on making positive changes in their lives. Most of us want to feel healthier, lose weight and have more energy—and why not? These are important goals. However, we should be living this way all of the time instead of during a few short-lived weeks at the start of each year.

 

And that goes for vegetarians, too. Yes, us. Gone are the days of brown rice, tofu, and steamed greens as the staples of the vegetarian diet. With the proliferation of mega health food stores and sugar-laden vegan junk food, it’s easier than ever for us meat-free devotees to consume a plethora of processed, unhealthy snacks that taste great but lack vital nutrition. Think dairy-free baked goods, crackers, chocolate, ice cream, donuts—the list goes on. The solution? Enjoy these foods in limited amounts (they’re great transitional foods for someone dabbling in vegetarianism), and detoxify your digestive system at least once a year with a whole-foods, plant-based regime.

 

For maximum results, eliminate all beverages except for filtered water. This automatically removes most caffeine and added sugars from your diet. Include natural sugars in the form of fresh and dried fruit, and if additional sweetener is needed, try low-sugar syrups like brown rice syrup and agave nectar. Using more healthful sugars will help balance your energy levels.

 

Even when detoxifying, food should taste great. You’ll find these recipes to be equally rich, satisfying, and healing. Using healthy fats like unrefined, organic coconut oil will help the body break down fat-soluble toxins trapped in our systems. The oil is safe to use at higher temperatures, is free of trans-fats, and is a good source of lauric acid, which has been shown to enhance brain function and the immune system.

 

By following our vegan cleanse for just two weeks, your body will release accumulated effects from sugar, fat, pesticides, and caffeine by adding nutrient-dense foods that will help heal and stabilize the body. Think of it as returning to the roots of a healthy, balanced vegetarian diet rich in whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables. Food that is pleasing to the palate and healing at the same time? It’s a concept whose time has arrived.

The VegNews Detox Quiz
Are you in need of a good detox? Find out by taking our revealing quiz.
1. Do you rely on processed, packaged, or frozen meals and snacks rather than preparing your own food?
2. Do you often eat vegetarian foods that are heavy on cheese and refined flour (such as pasta) rather than vegetables, whole grains, and beans?
3. Do you drink coffee, caffeinated tea, sodas, or fruit juices on a daily basis?
4. Do you eat French fries, potato chips, or fried foods often?
5. Do you feel tired, lethargic, or distracted on a daily basis?
If you answered “yes” to one or more of the above questions, it’s time to clean house!

The VegNews Detox Plan
Detox Breakfast: 5-Grain Cereal
Detox Lunch: Nutri-Wraps
Detox Dinner: Coconut Curry Red Lentil Stew
Detox Side: Cruciferous Crunch
Detox Dessert: Sweet Cinnamon Squash