If you're ready to kick off your spring diet program, start with a good detox. Spring is a great time to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables of the season, and you can be pretty creative with food and smoothie recipes that will help to cleanse your system. Foods that have a high water content are ideal for a detox and are usually loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. Eating more fiber and water-based foods will increase your bowel movements and keep your digestive system running at its peak.
Stock up on these seven spring detox foods to keep your diet on track:
#1: Asparagus. A natural diuretic, steamed asparagus can be a tasty side dish while fresh asparagus can be added to a greens or veggie smoothie. You can also add fresh or steamed asparagus to a salad for a flavorful twist.
#2: Blueberries. One of my favorite fruits year round, blueberries are loaded with antioxidants and also contain a good amount of fiber. They're incredibly versatile - add them to smoothies, eat them fresh as a snack, or top your yogurt or oatmeal with a handful of blueberries to get your dose of nutrients. They're also relatively low in calories and can make for a very satisfying mid-day snack.
#3: Pineapple. If you can't find it fresh in your part of the country just yet, go ahead and buy some frozen chunks or spears to add to your menu this season. Pineapple is full of fiber, water, and high in vitamin C.
#4: Cinnamon. Technically a spice and not a "food", but cinnamon is a great addition to oatmeal, yogurt, and even some of your cooked dishes. Some bodybuilders and personal trainers swear that cinnamon boosts the metabolism. This spice is also a great flavor enhancer and may help to keep your blood sugar levels in check.
#5: Grapefruit. You don't have to punish yourself with the rigors of the Grapfruit Diet but you can add this fruit to your weekly menu for a boost of vitamins and minerals. Grapefruit is very low in calories and red grapefruit contains lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to radiant skin.
#6: Beets. Dark purple or crimson beets are loaded with betalains and are also high in antioxidants. Betalin pigments in beets can help the body detoxify naturally. Add beets to your salads this season to enjoy their health benefits.
#7: Pomegranates. Pomegranates boast a full range of heart health benefits and can also be a tasty addition to your spring detox menus. Whether you drink pomegranate juice in the morning, add some pomegranate fruit to your salads or fruit smoothies, or just make up some granola with pomegranate juice, you can treat your body to a boost of nutrition.
More content from this contributor:
Spring Detoxing: Tips from Food Network's "Fat Chef" Nutritionist Christine Avanti
5 Worst Things You Can Do at the Gym
Celebrity Trainer Tracy Anderson on Getting in Shape for Spring Break
