SUMMER DETOX

After a gluttonous, meat-filled 4th of July weekend (hello ribs!), I'm in serious need of a detox!  Nothing too strict - I'm not talking a juice cleanse or anything that makes you hanxious or hangry, just some good, clean food that will fill you up!  I'm not avoiding caffeine (I only drink 1 cup of black tea in the mornings) or nightshades, but will be cutting out refined sugar, corn and (as always) gluten, and soy.  I'm starting my morning right with this amazing chia pudding full of berries.  I also like to make chocolate banana protein smoothies for breakfast, which consist of 1 scoop chocolate pea protein powder, 1/2 cup almond milk, 1 frozen banana, 1 Tbsp. raw cacao powder, 1 Tbsp. cacao nibs, 1 Tbsp. ground flaxseed, 1 tsp. maca powder, 1 tsp. cinnamon, and 1 date.  For healthy alternatives to your favorite comfort foods, try swapping out zucchini noodles for pasta, quinoa for rice, and sweet potatoes for potatoes.  For added health benefits, try adding anti-inflammatory turmeric, hydrating coconut water, Omega-3 rich chia seeds, energizing maca root, and fibrous flaxseed to your diet.  Check out the great recipes below to inspire your week of clean eating!  Craving something sweet for dessert? Check out my Sinless Indulgences post for guilt-free dessert recipes!  Your bathing suit will thank you later...