Let's start with the basics:

1.  Eat a fresh diet rich in veggies and fruits

Okay, maybe this is a little easier said than done!  To create a lasting change in your diet slowly integrate more fresh foods into your diet.  Focus on what is in season or go to your local farmers market. Read my post on farmer's market shopping.

2. Support Elimination Pathways

• Liver: an essential organ that is responsible for many major metabolic and digestive functions of the body. One of its most important functions is to detoxify the body by neutralizing and eliminating the extra toxins that our bodies are exposed to on a daily basis. The foods below support the production of glutathione which is a powerful antioxidant and a critical component of the liver's detoxification system.

  • Asparagus

  • Watermelon

  • Avocado

  • Grapefruit

  • Kale

  • Cauliflower

  • Broccoli

  • Cabbage

  • Brussels sprouts

  • Strawberries

  • Fish oil

• Kidneys: are largely responsible for the elimination of waste products from protein breakdown (such as urea and ammonia). If the movement of salts, proteins or other bio-chemicals goes awry, a whole range of health problems arises, from mild water retention, to major kidney failure, and mineral loss. Here are foods to promote kidney and vascular health.

• Fennel

• Onions

• Celery

• Beets

• Spinach

• String beans

• Asparagus

• Lymphatic System: the primary function is to transport lymph, a clear, colorless fluid containing white blood cells that helps rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. Read my post on skin brushing to move the lymphatic system and a post on herbs that help move the lymphatics!

• Skin: elimination of toxins from the skin is achieved through sweating. Sweat stimulated by exercise, fever, environment (i.e. summer weather, saunas, steam room etc.) is a way for the body to rid itself of toxins which are stored in adipose or fat tissues. Read my post on sweating for detoxification.

3. Support and Balance Hormones: can greatly affect skin and cause symptoms ranging from dry skin to oily acne prone skin.

Estrogen and progesterone are two of the key hormones that regulate this cycle. Estrogen levels increase during the first part of the cycle; whereas, progesterone levels increase while estrogen levels slowly decrease during the last part of the cycle. Helping to balance and support these hormones can reduce acne flare ups.  Read my post on supplements that can help balance hormones and a post on understanding your flow.

Try Seed Cycling which promotes healthy progesterone/estrogen levels

• Day 1-14: 1 Tbsp freshly ground flax seeds and pumpkin seeds daily

• Day 15-menses: 1 Tbsp freshly ground sunflower and sesame seeds daily