Tuesday's Q&A in Lafayette LA - 07-08-14

With so many delicious fruits and vegetables at the "peak" of their season - I figured why not compile a list of our favorites that are in season right now! In fact, some of our favorite summer foods also have mild detoxifying qualities, which only mean that they have the ability to keep our metabolism working optimally and assist in detoxifying our organs in Lafayette LA all day long.

1. Green Smoothies

We sure do LOVE our Green smoothies! They are pretty much a staple in our household. You can replace a meal with a smoothie filled with leafy greens and your favorite fruit or make a smaller one and drink as your favorite mid-morning/mid-afternoon snack. First, use spinach or kale as base, add nuts and then whichever delicious fruits you choose: pineapple, apples or watermelons will give you a delicious combination to enjoy any time of day.

2. Pineapple

I have to be honest and tell you that the best pineapple I ever had was from none other than: Hawaii, however, pineapple found at the market during these summer months comes pretty darn close and is very easy to find. Also, the active enzymes in pineapples help remove impurities from the GI track and lungs. Pineapple is also loaded with electrolytes, B-vitamins and minerals which is hard to believe because it is super yummy, but yes it is also highly detoxifying, so eat-up!

3. Apples

It's hard to find someone who doesn't enjoy apples. That's why they are one of the most popular fruits out there. We prefer granny smith apples because they are the lowest on the glycemic index (meaning: they contain very little sugar) which assists you in suppressing your own cravings for sweets. Apples not only help the body to regulate blood sugar, but are loaded with fiber (another little helper for your own daily detoxification process by way of proper elimination).

4. Grapefruit

Most citrus fruit have mild detoxification abilities, but that's not why Dr. LeBlanc's favorite fruit just happens to be grapefruit! Did you know that grapefruit is nature's appetite suppressant? Grapefruit is highly alkaline (meaning: NOT acidic) which keeps cravings for sweets or salty foods at bay, which means it can pretty much be your little helper in making smart, healthy food choices throughout the day! Grapefruit also boosts the metabolism and improves your immunity, especially against colds and respiratory ailments.

5. Avocados

Avocados are considered a Superfood by many nutritionists and experts because they have too many health properties to mention here (i.e., it's a "healthy fat," high in fiber and loaded with vitamins!) Also, avocadoes naturally contain glutathione, a nutrient known to not only block carcinogens (cancer causing ingredients) but helps the liver to clear out chemicals from the body.

6. Walnuts

Walnuts are available all year round but I wanted to include them here because most people are not aware of their detoxifying qualities. Walnuts are loaded with healthy fat: Omega-3 fatty acids - which not only lubricate your joints, skin and body at a cellular level, but ward off damage from free radicals, preventing premature aging and potentially extending your longevity.

7. Watermelon

A list of "summer" fruits certainly is not complete without watermelon! Who doesn't love to cut it in bite-size cubes, or even freeze them to be enjoyed at picnics or beach outings? Watermelon's high content of hydration is obviously going to help your kidneys and the liver flush out toxins and aid in the detox process.

On that note… You know the saying "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." But maybe you should consider a watermelon smoothie instead!

Watermelon is high in antioxidants, carotenoid lycopene and phenolic antioxidants, vitamin A (beta-carotene), B6 and C, potassium and magnesium. It's great in the summer heat for your skin and hair! Staying hydrated helps you feel more energized, which also helps you feed your skin from the inside out.

Watermelon Smoothie
• 2 cups cubed watermelon
• 1/2 cup cubed cucumber
• ½ cup blackberries (or blueberries or even rasperries!)
• 3 leaves of fresh mint (optional)

Place all of your ingredients together in a blender and enjoy!

NOTE: If you want more of a "frozen" smoothie, feel free to add ice but bear in mind that since watermelon is already mostly water, the more ice you add, the thinner and less flavorful your smoothie will be.

By Francesca Marino D.C.