Two “detox” juices to reset after holiday overindulgence

When you wake up one morning with the feeling that you do not want to see cakes for the next year, it may be time for some healthier decisions. And although the best choice would be to stick to quality eating habits throughout the entire year, even during the holidays, it is hard to resist the scent of vanilla, the aromas of chocolate, and caramel crumbs. It is as if there is an unwritten rule in the air that the holidays mark a time for indulgence and excess.

However, heavy food, too many sweets, late dinners, and an extra glass or two are quickly reflected in our energy levels, digestion, and complexion. Although the human body has important and very effective detox systems, it is not a bad idea to keep nutrient quality in mind when choosing food and drinks in the days ahead. This is where simple “detox” juices rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants come into play.

These “detox” juices do not promise miracles overnight, but they can be a good first step in the process of returning to balance. Green leafy vegetables, fruit, and root vegetables are often the foundation of such drinks. Nutritionists emphasize the importance of hydration and fiber for better digestion. Ingredients that support liver function and reduce bloating are particularly highlighted.

Photo: Polina Tankilevitch

These “detox” juices can also be a practical way to increase vegetable intake, especially for those who tend to resist it. Combined with lighter meals, “detox” juices give me a feeling of freshness and more energy. They do not replace a balanced diet, but they can make it easier to return to healthier habits. Based on the advice of nutritionists, discover two “detox” juices that support hydration, liver function, and digestion and, most importantly, will truly bring you back to life.

“Detox” juices you can rely on

“Although I am not a proponent of detox cures and procedures, especially after the holidays, here is an example of a smoothie made from spinach, green apple, banana, and ginger,” points out sports nutritionist Nenad Bratković, MSc in Nutrition.

Green “detox” juice

Photo: Darina Belonogova

• spinach or Swiss chard, about 80 g
• 2 bananas, less ripe
• 1 green apple, unpeeled
• freshly squeezed orange juice, 1.5 dl
• grated, finely chopped ginger
• water, as desired

Do not reserve this juice only for the holidays. “Detox and easing digestive symptoms should be practiced during the holidays with every meal, not after the days when it is already too late; the body does not function physiologically that way,” Bratković emphasizes. The smoothie he recommends is an ideal choice for consuming a wide range of essential nutrients. “This combination of foods will provide fiber, pectin, resistant starch, and flavonoids, as well as magnesium from green leafy vegetables, vitamin C, gingerol, and other compounds from ginger that have prokinetic and antiemetic effects, meaning they stimulate digestion and calm the digestive system, while also contributing to hydration, at least in one meal or drink,” Bratković adds.

The second recipe, which quickly became one of my favorites because it is based on beetroot, is also ideal for days when I feel lethargic. “This juice helps the recovery of the digestive system and also serves as a source of energy after the holiday days,” adds clinical nutritionist Nevena Pandža, MSc in Nutrition.

Pink “detox” juice

Photo: Any Lane

• 1 large beetroot
• 1 carrot
• 1 apple
• 1 peeled lemon
• 1⁄2 teaspoon organic Ceylon cinnamon
• 1⁄2 teaspoon organic turmeric
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 10 drops of propolis or 1 teaspoon local honey

The beetroot, carrot, apple, and lemon should be washed, peeled, and pressed in a cold press juicer. Then add the cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, and propolis and mix everything well. Pandža advises drinking the juice within about 15 minutes, taking small sips.

She especially recommends it because of its composition, which places minerals at the forefront. “Beetroot is rich in minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, manganese, and iron, as well as B vitamins and vitamin C. It stands out for the presence of red plant pigments, betaine and betanin, which have proven anti-inflammatory effects, and nitrates, nitrogen compounds that reduce oxygen consumption during exertion and increase muscle endurance. Apple, carrot, and lemon contribute fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, and through fructose and glucose provide sources of carbohydrates. Organic Ceylon cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger enrich the juice with phytonutrients with proven anti-inflammatory properties, while propolis and honey act as antioxidants and immune stimulants,” Pandža explains.

These detox juice recipes can be excellent support for the body after the holidays, especially as part of a balanced diet and healthier lifestyle habits.