Spring Forward with an Organic Detox

March 8th, 2024

With the arrival of spring, it's not just our homes that can benefit from a thorough cleaning. Our bodies, too, deserve a spring detox to cleanse from within, eliminating toxins accumulated from winter's indulgences. Choosing organic is a pivotal first step in this cleansing process. Organic farming's stringent restrictions on synthetic pesticides and fertilizers mean that opting for certified organic foods is an effective way to reduce your exposure to the over 700 chemicals commonly used in conventional agriculture. Simply put, going organic is your body's natural detox pathway.

Ready to deepen your spring detox? We've curated a selection of the finest organic foods to aid in detoxification, alongside easy-to-incorporate tips for cleansing at every meal.

In spring, farmers experience a boom of leafy green and root crops. Strawberries and asparagus are on the horizon, but for now there’s an excess of a limited selection of vegetables. The upside is that greens taste best this time of year, with cool air and ample moisture to keep them tender and sweet. Enterprising organic farmers also bring ephemeral treats to market, like the flowering kale stems (often called raab), garlic shoots (also scape), or edible flowers. Become a green-machine in spring. Fresh spring greens are one of the vegetable-year’s finest delicacies, but don’t forget to freeze. Buying when abundant means lower prices, so get blanching and stock your freezer with peak-quality greens.

The transition to an organic diet has been scientifically shown to have significant health benefits, crucial in times of global health crises. The adverse effects of conventional food production chemicals on health are well-documented, with studies linking them to DNA damage, increased mortality of blood cells, depression, and Parkinson’s disease. Conversely, organic foods not only reduce these risks but are also nutritionally superior. For instance, organic onions boast a higher nutritional density than their conventional counterparts, with organic produce generally containing more antioxidants and fewer pesticides.

Key findings from these studies include:

• Up to 40% increase in antioxidant intake from consuming organic fruits and vegetables.
• Organic strawberries, richer in nutrients and antioxidants than conventional ones.
• A 50% higher vitamin C content in organic tomatoes compared to their non-organic equivalents.

Cleansing with organic foods can lead to weight loss and elevated energy levels, as whole organic foods may double calorie burning compared to processed foods. The focus here is on the quality and nutritional content of foods rather than calorie counting, emphasizing the elimination of chemical intake over calorie intake.

By opting for organic, you're already reducing your toxin load, but incorporating fresh organic produce can further enhance detox benefits. To support this, we're introducing our fresh organic food challenge, inviting you to add a piece of fresh organic produce to every meal. Whether sourced locally at Jubilee Marketplace or delivered to your door by companies like Misfits Market or Imperfect Foods, adding fresh produce is a step towards a healthier you.

During our detox, consider adopting a diet with at least 51% raw vegetables during your detox. Live enzymes in uncooked fruits and vegetables support natural detoxification but are lost when food is cooked or processed.

For an effective spring detox, include these top 5 detoxifying organic foods:

1. Lemon Peel: Rich in d-limonene, it activates liver enzymes to detoxify harmful compounds. Starting your day with warm lemon water aids detox and digestion.
2. Dandelions: Their detoxifying properties are perfect for smoothies or tea. Choose organic to avoid chemical exposure.
3. Cilantro: Known for its detoxifying effects, especially in removing heavy metals. Pair with chlorella in a smoothie for an enhanced cleanse.
4. Leafy Greens: Essential for a detox diet, they support overall health and continuous detoxification through fiber content.
5. Celery: As a snack or juice, celery offers detox benefits along with hydration and inflammation reduction.

Remember, before embarking on dietary changes, it's crucial to conduct your own research and, if possible, consult a healthcare professional. However, at Jubilee Marketplace, we've found that these detox methods, alongside clean, organic foods, significantly contribute to our well-being. It's also worth noting that opting for fresh, organic choices not only enhances your health but also champions sustainable farming practices.

The Jubilee Marketplace Team, 145 West St. Brooklyn, NY 11222, @jubileemarketplace, Tiktok