Three Things for Thursday: Spring Cleaning for a Healthier Home, Detoxification Support with Chlorophyll & a Green Smoothie for Energy

1. Simple Spring Cleaning Tips for a Healthier Home

It’s finally around that time to open the windows, let the fresh air in, and take on the spring cleaning. Not only will a good spring cleaning give you a happier, more welcoming living environment, but it’s also an opportunity to create a healthier space. Here are some tips that may not always come to mind but can make a big difference when it comes to indoor air quality and overall home health:

• Clear Out Clutter and Refresh Your Space: A cluttered home can collect dust, allergens, and even contribute to stress and mental fatigue. Taking time to declutter, donate, or sell unused items not only improves air quality and reduces toxins in your home, but also creates a more calming, organized environment. Less clutter means less visual overwhelm, helping you feel lighter, more focused, and at ease in your space. Plus, giving new life to your unused items – whether through donation or resale – can be rewarding and uplifting!
• Change HVAC Filters: A quick and often overlooked task! Changing the filters in your HVAC system can significantly improve air quality by ensuring that dust, dirt, and allergens are being filtered out of the air you breathe.
• Deep Clean Your Upholstery: Upholstery can harbor dirt, dust mites, pet dander, and allergens. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to thoroughly clean these areas. When it comes to the couch, vacuum all cushions, under the cushions, and under the couch itself. There are a few methods for cleaning cushions, depending on the type of material they are made of. One method is to cover the cushion (and carpet for that matter!) in baking soda, let sit, and vacuum off. The baking soda helps absorb odors, lift dirt and oils, and make it easier to remove dust and allergens when vacuuming, leaving your upholstery fresher and cleaner without harsh chemicals.  Another is to use soapy water (depending on the fabric) and give it a good scrub. Don’t forget to wash throw blankets and pillow covers since those also collect dust and allergens!

For more tips on spring cleaning every room of your home, click here. 

2. Spring Detox Support with Chlorophyll

Spring is a great time to reset, but detoxing doesn’t have to mean deprivation. One simple way I like to support detoxification is by adding more chlorophyll-rich foods to my diet. Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in plants, and it’s an amazing detoxifier! It helps to cleanse the blood, neutralize toxins, and support the liver. Chlorophyll may also help with body odor!

Here’s why chlorophyll is especially helpful during a spring detox:

• Liver Health: Chlorophyll helps the liver function more effectively by supporting its natural detoxification processes. It can also help increase the production of red blood cells, which is vital for transporting oxygen throughout the body.
• Alkalizing: Chlorophyll has an alkalizing effect on the body, helping to balance pH levels, reduce inflammation, and support overall health.
• Detoxifying: Chlorophyll binds to toxins and helps remove them from the body. It also supports digestion and improves gut health, which is key for overall detoxification.

So, how can you boost your chlorophyll intake? Here are some of the top chlorophyll-rich foods to incorporate into your diet:

• Spinach: One of the best sources of chlorophyll, spinach is versatile and easy to add to smoothies, salads, or cooked dishes.
• Parsley: Rich in chlorophyll, parsley is also packed with antioxidants and vitamins. Add it to smoothies, salads, soups, or use it as a garnish.
• Chlorella: A nutrient-dense algae, chlorella is available in powder or supplement form and is a great way to get a concentrated dose of chlorophyll.
• Wheatgrass: Another potent source of chlorophyll, wheatgrass can be consumed as a shot or added to juices and smoothies.
• Kale: Kale is not only packed with chlorophyll, but also a great source of vitamins A, C, and K. Add it to smoothies, salads, sautéed dishes, or my make my favorite – kale chips!
• Collard Greens: A cruciferous vegetable that provides a significant amount of chlorophyll along with other important nutrients for detoxification.

Incorporating these chlorophyll-rich foods into your diet is an easy way to support your body’s natural detox process, especially during the spring when we can all use a little reset!

3. A Go-To Chlorophyll-Packed Green Smoothie for Nutritious Energy 

This Superfood Green Smoothie was a daily staple for me (and the kids!) for years, and it’s still one of my all-time favorites! It’s quick, easy, and loaded with superfoods like spinach, chia seeds, and flaxseeds, making it a great way to nourish your body. It’s also a great idea for a healthy breakfast or snack for kiddos with St. Patrick’s Day coming up! 

Here’s why this smoothie is still one of my go-to’s:

• Bananas add natural sweetness, potassium, and fiber.
• Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients with detoxifying chlorophyll and digestion-boosting benefits.
• Nut butter adds protein and healthy fats to keep you feeling full.
• Yogurt brings in probiotics to support gut health.
• Chia seeds and flaxseeds provide Omega-3’s and antioxidants.
• Cinnamon adds a boost of anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients:

• 1 small/medium banana
• A handful of spinach (about 1 cup)
• 2 tbsp peanut butter
• ¼ cup plain yogurt (can also use vanilla for extra sweetness)
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tbsp flax seeds
• Dash of cinnamon
• 1½ cups nut milk
• 4-5 ice cubes

Directions: Blend all ingredients until smooth, enjoy, and feel great knowing you’re fueling your body with wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients.

If you’re looking for a new blender, I highly recommend Vitamix – they’re a bit of an investment, but well worth it for how long they last and how well they blend. Mine is 15 years old, gets very frequent use, and is still in excellent shape!

Deals of the week:
AirDoctor 4000 – New model! Pre-order the AD4000 and get $400 off!
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 As always, thank you so much for being here. I hope you have a wonderful weekend!
 

Until next time,