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It’s ok to enjoy a slice of pizza, but sip on one of these anti-inflammatory drinks first. In fact, before you eat any meal, have a detox thirst-quencher to offload the inflammation that leads to abdominal weight gain. Here are ideas from Dr. Luiza Petre, MD, director of the Medi-Weightloss Clinics.
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Fresh Raspberry Cinnamon Tea
“Studies suggest raspberries assist in weight loss because they contain compounds that increase the production of leptin, the appetite suppressing hormone,” says Dr. Petre. Boil then mash some fresh berries in a strainer, hold it over a mug and pour over hot water to brew fresh tea. Add a cinnamon stick to look cute and help reduce gas.
Watermelon Mint Detox Juice
“Water is a natural diuretic which means drinking it can help your body eliminate the extra water it's holding on to,” says Dr. Petre. Watermelon is 93 percent water plus it has potassium to reverse the bloating effects of salt. Combine fresh watermelon with mint leaves (to reduce gas) and lime juice for a refreshing, body-friendly drink.
Banana Coconut Cuke Smoothie
Eating too much salt puffs up your belly by causing you to retain water. But potassium found in bananas, coconuts and cucumbers balances out excess fluid. Blend a half of a cup of coconut water with one banana and one cucumber. Add a piece of anti-inflammatory fresh ginger and ice.
Pineapple Green Tea
Create an anti-bloat powerhouse with green tea, ginger and pineapple. Blend fresh chunks of pineapple with a cup of green tea, a small piece of fresh ginger plus ice. Green tea is a natural anti-bloating diuretic that with lots of antioxidants. Ginger keeps your digestive track running smoothly. Pineapple has potassium plus lots of enzymes to ease digestion.
