Detox is an abbreviated form of the term detoxification -- a process that helps rid your body of toxins. Toxins get in the body through the water, air and foods that you eat. To flush them from your body, increase your consumption of nutritious foods. In general, eating natural foods removes toxins from your body. Consult your doctor before making any changes in your diet plan.
Greens
Eat primarily green leafy vegetables to detoxify your body. A general rule for vegetables is the greener and leafier, the better. These veggies are widely used as a source of chlorophyll, which stimulates red blood cell production. Green leafy veggies, such as parsley, spinach, watercress and collard greens, also contain vitamin K and iron that detoxify the blood and clear toxins out of your system, says Natalia Rose, author of the book "Raw Food Life Force Energy."
Enzymes
The human body has a built-in detox system. It has detoxifying enzymes such as GSH transferase and quinone oxidoreductase that convert toxic substances into less harmful ones. The body makes its own detoxifying enzymes using the food in your normal diet. Plant foods such as avocados, bananas, cranberries, grapes, lemons and mangoes are loaded with these enzymes. Eating these enzyme-rich foods may enhance the activity of the enzymes responsible for the deactivation of toxic compounds within the body.
Fiber
Choosing food sources high in fiber is the simplest way of detoxifying. Soluble fiber creates a gel-like substance in the gastrointestinal tract when mixed with solution. This gel traps toxins and other harmful chemicals in the gut and carries them out of your body as waste. Water-soluble fiber is prevalent in oats and barley. Add them to your diet to help cleanse the daily accumulation of toxins from your body.
Drinks
Many detox diets employ drinks made of fruit juices. They help cleanse your colon of impurities. During the fruit-based diet, drink at least 1 quart of fresh juice every day. Also, drink plenty of water -- at least 2 L of water daily. This helps flush toxins out through the urine. You can also use herbal detoxifiers, such as green tea, but before you try herbal teas, speak with your doctor.
References
- "Raw Food Life Force Energy"; Natalia Rose; 2007
- Global Healing Center: 10 Foods That Detox the Body
- "The Fast Track Detox Diet: Boost Metabolism, Get Rid of Fattening Toxins, Jump-Start Weight Loss and Keep the Pounds off for Good"; Ann Gittleman; 2006
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