Internal Cleansing Diet Foods

In 2009, the Environmental Working Group reported that tap water in 45 states in America contained more than 200 unregulated chemicals. Toxins also come from the air, skin care products and chemicals at your home or workplace. Natural health practitioners have long suggested a link between toxins and weight gain, and science is beginning to back up their claims. Some foods may help cleanse your body of toxins and boost weight loss. However, more scientific evidence is necessary on the effects of detoxification.

Toxins and Weight

Chemicals that have hormone-like effects in the body contribute to obesity, according to study findings presented at the European Congress on Obesity in 2008. One chemical, bisphenol A, is capable of triggering fat cell production and interfering with insulin sensitivity and the appetite hormone leptin. In animal studies, two other chemicals, perfluorooctanoic acid and tributylin, also programmed offspring to become fat later in life.

Detox Purpose

Organizations that focus on conventional medicine, such as the Mayo Clinic, state that detoxification programs are unnecessary. However, according to Ann Louise Gittleman, author of "Fat Flush for Life," detoxification methods help to break down toxins and support liver function. They also promote elimination of toxins from your body.

Vegetables

According to Gittleman, cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage break down fat-storing toxins and prevent new body fat from forming. Vegetables are low in calories and good sources of fiber. Brenda Watson, a certified nutritional consultant, explains that dietary fiber absorb toxins and enhances their elimination from the body. Fiber also makes you feel fuller and reduces your calorie intake.

Insoluble Fiber

Whole grains, wheat bran, flaxseed, dried beans and fruit and root vegetable skins are good sources of insoluble fiber. This type of fiber doesn't break down during digestion and passes through to the colon almost intact, according to Watson. As a result, it's very effective at increasing bowel movements and removing toxins and waste from the colon.

Probiotics

Found in foods such as yogurt and some granola products, probiotic bacteria include bifidobacterium bifidus, the main bacterium in your colon, and lactobacillus acidopholus, the most abundant bacterium in the small intestine, states the "New Medicine: The Complete Family Health Guide." They support liver function and help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut. A study published in the journal "Clinical Nutrition," revealed that probiotics in combination with counseling may inhibit obesity in pregnant women.

Reminder

Eating cleansing foods alone will not cause you to lose weight. You need to eat the right portion sizes, cut back on unhealthy foods such as saturated and trans fats and refined carbohydrates. Exercising is also essential. Do aerobic exercise at least four days a week and strength training at least two days a week.