While detox diets are becoming increasingly common, the body is well-equipped to naturally eliminate toxins and does not necessarily require adhering to a specific diet to rid the body of toxins. Science Daily explains that “A detox diet is a dietary regimen involving a change in consumption habits in an attempt to detoxify the body by removal of toxins or other contaminants.” There are several foods that are rich in vitamins and antioxidants and can assist the body’s natural ability to cleanse and detoxify itself, including, but not limited to the following examples:
- Asparagus: contains a well-known antioxidant that promotes detoxification called, glutathione. Asparagus is also an excellent source of fiber, folate, iron, and vitamins A, C, E, and K.
- Grapefruit: certain enzymes in grapefruit are known to break down fat in the body to help promote weight loss. They are also filled with nutrients including vitamins A, C, and B1, as well as pantothenic acid, fiber, potassium, and biotin.
- Avocado: is a nutrient-dense food that is loaded with antioxidants to help the body naturally expel toxins. Avocados also contain around twenty different vitamins and minerals that help decrease the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
- Beets: the most notable nutrient in beets is called betaine, which helps the liver rid itself of toxins. Beets also contain a soluble fiber called pectin that clears toxins that have been removed from the liver.
- Spinach: contains flavonoids that act as antioxidants by helping to keep cholesterol from oxidizing in the body.
- Artichokes: contain phytonutrients that play an important role in the digestion of fats as they help the liver produce bile.
- Cabbage: contains a chemical that helps the body fight against toxins, called sulforaphane.
- Lemons: are packed with antioxidant vitamin C, which is excellent for the skin and for fighting disease-forming free radicals.
- Garlic: has antiviral, antibacterial, and antibiotic properties, and contains a chemical called allicin which promotes the production of white blood cells and helps fight against toxins.
- Watercress: is packed with a variety of detoxifying nutrients such as several B vitamins, zinc, potassium, vitamin E, and vitamin C. It also contains natural diuretic properties that can help to flush toxins out of the body.
- Brown rice: is high in fiber, which is good for cleansing the colon and is rich in key nutrients including B vitamins, magnesium, manganese, and phosphorous.
Integrating the above foods and maintaining a varied and balanced diet can not only help to remove toxins from the body but can also provide the nutrients needed to remain healthy and enhance one’s overall wellbeing.
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