Health & Fitness

5 things you need to know about souping

Meet the next big wellness trend.

by : Carli Whitwell- Mar 9th, 2016

5-things-you-need-to-know-about-souping-2

Sipped on one too many green juices? You may want to grab a spoon and try souping. Disciples claim this “whole-food cleanse” – where you eat only soup for anywhere from one to five days – will rid the body of toxins.

Let’s be clear: there’s no scientific evidence that the body NEEDS to detox to regulate itself. But soups can be a healthy addition to a meal plan, if they contain satiating protein, vegetables, grains, beans and lentils and healthy fats, says registered dietitian Christy Brissette, of 80 Twenty Nutrition.

Before you trying souping, here are 5 other things you should know.

It may be healthier for you than juicing
Here’s why: the process of juicing removes the fibre from vegetables and fruit, says Brissette. That can cause blood sugar to first spike and then crash. Soups can also help you avoid the lethargy and jitters that can come from juice cleanses, says Vivienne Vella, co-founder of L.A.-based Soupure.

Soups can make you feel fuller, longer
Because they are largely made of water, they will fill you up without the calories. Another benefit? You can’t eat soup quickly. “It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to recognize that you’re full, and soup helps you slow down and pay closer attention to feelings of fullness,” says Brissette.

READ MORE: What is cloud bread and is it good for you?

You don’t have to starve yourself if you’re souping
Almost all of Soupure’s cleanses consist of seven to eight soups a day, which works out to about 1,200 calories. If you’re worried you’ll be too hungry, feel free to supplement with healthy meals and snacks, says Vella. “Listen to your body and consult with your own medical professional before undertaking any cleanse program.”

Yes, you can have soup for breakfast
Vella’s pick? Bone broth. “Not only is it incredibly soothing, it resets your system and provides an immune booster for your day ahead.”

Not all soups are created equal
Steer clear of store-bought broth, which is high in sodium and preservatives. Brisette also recommends avoiding soups made with cream, bacon, cheese, coconut milk (it’s high in calories) and refined carbs such as white rice or corn starch.