Hello, Dry January…
Oh, all right…all right, so the ball dropped. The fireworks are over. Duran Duran, Ciara, Dolly, and Miley crushed it on stage. And well, if you are like me, that hangover that is SO 2022 and the weight gain due two full years of “the pandemic” has been a thing.
I don’t think there could be a better time in history to try out Dry January, at least for me. I hope that I will go into this next year feeling healthier, with a clearer mind, and down at least 1/3 of the “COVID-19+” pounds I’ve gained due to overindulgence in both food and drink.
For those who may not be familiar, Dry January is a global campaign that encourages people to take a break from alcohol for January. It’s a chance to reset and give your body a break after all those holiday parties and boozy dinners. And what better way to support your sobriety than delicious, nourishing food?
This got me thinking: what are some foods that I can eat that would be complimentary to giving up the booze for a month? In this blog post, I will explore some wonderfully detoxifying and healthy foods to eat during Dry January. There are some obvious ones, but a few of them may surprise you. Ok, let’s get into the list of what to eat during dry January!
15 Foods to Eat During Dry January
Here are 15 delicious and nourishing foods that can help support a healthy detox:
#1 – Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are packed with nutrients and can help support liver function.
#2 – Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts contain compounds that can help the body remove toxins.
#3 – Citrus Fruits: Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are high in vitamin C and can help boost the immune system.
#4 – Avocado: This superfood is high in healthy fats and can help the body absorb nutrients more effectively.
#5 – Garlic and Tumeric: Garlic is a natural detoxifier and can also help boost the immune system. The Turmeric spice has anti-inflammatory properties and can help support liver function.
#7 – Ginger: Ginger has a detoxifying effect on the body and can also help with digestion.
#8 – Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV is a natural detoxifier and can also help balance pH levels in the body.
#9 – Asparagus: Asparagus is high in the amino acid asparagine, which can help support the kidneys and promote healthy urinary function..
#10 – Legumes: Beans, lentils, and other legumes are high in protein and fiber, which can help support a healthy digestive system.
#11 – Nuts and Seeds: Nuts and seeds like almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are high in healthy fats and protein, and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
#12 – Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, and other berries are high in antioxidants and can help support a healthy immune system.
#13 – Fermented Foods: Foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha contain probiotics that can help support a healthy gut.
#14 – Apples: Apples are high in pectin, a type of fiber that can help support healthy digestion and the removal of toxins from the body.
#15 – Bone Broth: Bone broth is rich in nutrients and can help support a healthy digestive system.
🍽️ Related: Low-Fiber Diet: 25 Foods to Eat & 31 to Avoid
11 Healthy Drink Ideas for Dry January
Here are nine healthier drink options to include in your Dry January challenge:
#1 – Water: Water is essential for hydration and should be the drink of choice for quenching your thirst. It has no calories, sugar, or artificial ingredients.
#2 – Lemon Water: Adding a few slices of lemon to your water can add flavor and some vitamin C. Lemon water can also help support digestion and boost your immune system.
#3 – Sports Drinks: Sports drinks can be a good choice for rehydration and replenishment of electrolytes after intense physical activity. However, they can also be high in sugar, so it’s important to read labels and choose a brand with less added sugar.
#4 – Green Tea: Green tea is a low-calorie beverage that is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to several health benefits. It may help with weight loss, heart health, and blood sugar control.
#5 – Kombucha: Kombucha is a fermented tea drink rich in probiotics and beneficial bacteria that can help support digestive health. It’s also low in calories and sugar, making it a healthier alternative to soda or sugary cocktails.
#6 – Coconut Water: Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes and is lower in sugar than many sports drinks. It can be a good rehydration after exercise or in hot weather.
#7 – Herbal Teas: Herbal teas can be a flavorful and calorie-free alternative to soda or sugary drinks. Some options to try include chamomile, peppermint, and hibiscus tea.
#8 – Sparkling Water: Sparkling water can provide a bubbly alternative to soda, but be sure to choose a brand that is unsweetened to avoid added sugars.
#9 – Milk: Milk is a good source of calcium, protein, and other nutrients. Choose low-fat or nonfat options to reduce the amount of saturated fat and calories.
#10 – Fruit Juice: Fruit juice can be a good source of vitamins and minerals, but it can also be high in sugar. It’s best to choose 100% fruit juice and limit your intake to a small daily glass.
#11 – Mocktails: A mocktail is a non-alcoholic mixed drink made with fruit juice, soda, and other ingredients. They can be a great alternative to cocktails at events or gatherings you may attend during Dry January.
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What Not to Eat and Drink During Dry January
During a detox, it is generally recommended to avoid foods high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients, as these can be difficult for the body to process and may interfere with the detox process. Some examples of foods to avoid during detox include:
- Processed snack foods and sweets, such as cookies, chips, and candy
- Fried foods, such as fried chicken, French fries, and doughnuts
- Fast food and takeout meals, which are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats
- Sugary drinks, such as soda, sports drinks, and sweetened tea or coffee
According to registered dietitian Isabel Smith, “During a detox, it’s important to focus on whole, unprocessed foods that are rich in nutrients and support the body’s natural detox processes. Processed foods and those high in added sugars and unhealthy fats can be hard for the body to digest and may interfere with the detox process.”
This advice is consistent with the recommendations of many medical professionals and health organizations, which advocate for a diet based on whole, minimally processed foods as a key component of overall health and wellness.
Foods To Eat During Dry January: Conclusion
So, there you have it – the best and worst foods to chow down on during Dry January. While it may be tempting to indulge in less-than-healthy treats, remember that your body will thank you for choosing the good stuff. Embrace the challenge of eating clean, and you’ll feel fresh, healthy, and ready to tackle the rest of the year with gusto.
But let’s not forget the real reason for Dry January – to give your body a break from the booze. Alcohol can take a toll on your body, so taking a month off from drinking can be a great way to reset and recharge. Plus, you’ll be surprised at how good you feel after a month of sobriety. So go ahead and join the Dry January movement and give your body the TLC it deserves. Cheers to a happy, healthy Dry January (and beyond)!”
