Throughout the winter, preserved foods such as grains, dried meats, and root vegetables dominated the diet, often leading to a decrease in the variety and freshness of available foods. This change usually resulted in a diet devoid of vital nutrients and an increase in gastrointestinal complaints due to a slower liver function and a sluggish lymphatic system. Reintroducing fresh, bitter herbs like dandelion, nettle and sorrel was very helpful. Packed with vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients, these greens help cleanse the palate and rejuvenate the body.