The word ‘detox’ has come to be associated with extreme cleanses and living off green juice for a week, possibly during some very spendy spa retreat. However, detoxing doesn’t have to involve iron willpower and lots of time or money. Here’s a look at how to support your body’s natural detoxing processes with nutrient-rich foods and supplements.
Optimise your diet with wholefoods
Our bodies are already powerful detox machines as the liver, kidney, lungs and digestive system work constantly to rid the body of toxins and keep everything in balance. The best way we can support it is by giving it the best quality of nutrients. This means plenty of plant-based foods such as leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables and fresh herbs.
These foods are rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients that help the body’s natural cleansing system to work more efficiently. Fibre is important too, especially in whole forms such as oats, chia seeds and legumes.
Supplement with superfoods
Superfoods are foods that are exceptionally rich in nutrients and compounds that support our overall health and wellbeing. They can be just as effective in powder form as whole. For example, organic seaweed powder and algae such as spirulina and chlorella are high in protein and antioxidants, as well as fibre, iron, calcium and B vitamins.
Powders can easily be sprinkled onto your morning cereal or smoothie, or added to everyday meals such as salads, soups and stews. Look for high-quality organic products that are grown without the use of chemicals and pesticides, and are tested rigorously for contaminants to ensure they are pure and safe.
If your liver is in need of a little love, try traditional remedies such as milk thistle and dandelion root, which may have healing and protective qualities.
Nourish your gut
A healthy gut is key to the efficient elimination of waste and toxins. Support your digestive system with prebiotic foods such as garlic, leeks, asparagus and bananas.
Also include probiotics in the form of fermented foods such as kefir and sauerkraut, alongside plenty of fibre. This will boost a sluggish digestive system and increase and diversify the amount of ‘friendly’ bacteria in your gut.
Don’t forget about hydration
Proper hydration is important to help the kidneys flush out waste and support effective digestion. Adults should aim to drink around two litres of filtered water throughout the day. Try not to wait until you feel thirsty before you drink, because this is a sign that the body is already dehydrated.
Herbal teas, coconut water, and water-rich foods such as cucumber and watermelon also support the body’s fluid balance. However, limit your intake of caffeinated drinks and alcohol, and these are diuretics. A squeeze of lemon juice in plain water before breakfast can help to activate your digestive system.
Remember that detoxing is not about depriving your body of nutrients, but adding more high-quality nutrients and compounds. Introduce changes gradually rather than diving into a whole new diet or fasting regime, and you will soon notice that you feel more energised and back to your best.