Heroin use compromises and can eventually destroy the liver, heart, lungs, kidneys and brain, according to the Partnership for a Drug-Free America. A good detoxification diet will attend to these organs by supplying them with the nutrients needed to maintain their function. A heroin detox diet will provide relief of withdrawal symptoms by flushing metabolic waste from the body. By eating organic foods that have fiber, vitamins and minerals, along with drinking as much purified water as possible, it is possible to re-establish a strong, healthy and vital body and mind.
Foods for Liver Strength
Many foods help detoxify the liver from the ravages of heroin use. These foods encourage the liver to produce enzymes for eliminating toxins that compromise the function of the organ. Garlic, onions and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and cabbage are excellent choices.
Foods for Heart Strength
According to the American Hearth Association, eating fresh fruits and vegetables along with whole grains and fat-free or low-fat dairy products helps strengthen heart muscles. Eating fish twice a week supplies the heart with essential omega-3 fatty acids, which help to cleanse the arteries. Eating beets is a way to cleanse the blood of harmful toxins accumulated through heroin abuse.
Foods for Lung Strength
Eggs, fish and white meat chicken and turkey along with fresh fruits and vegetables help strengthen the lungs. Cutting down on salt, caffeine and sugar-filled beverages will help the body in cleaning the respiratory system, as will drinking water in abundance.
Foods for Kidney Strength
Raw fruits and vegetables are natural cleansers and detoxifiers for the kidneys. When kidneys are compromised, they have a hard time filtering proteins, so it is wise to limit protein intake until this organ becomes stronger.
Foods for Brain Strength
According to an article in Psychology Today, omega-3 fatty acids are essential to protect the outer membrane of brain cells, which receive messages from the neurological system. This membrane is compromised by heroin intake, so it is important to nourish the cells with foods that contain omega-3 oils, such as canola oil, walnut oil and fish. The B vitamin choline, found in eggs, is also key for building brain function.
Fruits High in Antioxidants
Fruits are essential because they help rid the organs of free radicals caused by heroin use. According to a study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture at Tufts University, fruits that are among the highest in antioxidant properties include prunes,
raisons, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, plums, oranges, grapefruit, cantaloupe
and apples.
A lemon squeezed into a glass of warm water is an excellent detoxifier because it stimulates bile production, thus cleaning the stomach and bowels. Cranberry juice is another way to cleanse the organs, particularly the kidneys.
Herbs for Detoxification
There are many herbs that can help rid the body of toxins caused by heroin use, including chamomile (detoxes the kidneys, reduces inflammation, heals tissues), skullcap and peppermint, yarrow (tones blood vessels), elderflower (soothes mucus membranes), milk thistle (strengthens the liver, gall bladder, spleen) and red clover (purifies the blood.)
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