Top 10 Detoxifying Foods
As we have discussed earlier, the body has its own built-in detox mechanisms. These processes can be boosted through a good clean diet. You don’t always need to pay top dollar for the latest ‘superfoods’. Many of our regular fruits and vegetables actually offer their own super detoxifying powers that can be just as – if not more effective than superfoods! These are our top 10 detoxifying foods:
1. Lemon
Starting the day off with half a lemon squeezed in warm water is one of the best ways to kick-start your liver. The tart/sour taste is what’s responsible for waking up the digestive system (including the liver) and produces digestive juices.
2. Broccoli
Broccoli contains sulfur-rich compounds which have the ability to enhance phase II detoxification and increase excretion of toxins.
3. Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts contain glucosinolates, they are sulfur containing compounds that protect the liver from damage and enhance its ability to excrete toxins and excess hormones.
4. Turmeric
There is plenty of evidence supporting turmeric and its ability to support the liver’s detoxification process. liver uses bile to eliminate toxins; bile also rejuvenates liver cells that breakdown harmful compounds. Turmeric is a popular herb used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat digestion and liver disorders.
5. Garlic
Garlic contains a natural substance called alliin. When you crush or chop fresh garlic, this breaks down into allicin, which contains many of garlic’s healing properties and also contributes to its strong smell. Just like brussel sprouts and broccoli – garlic is loaded with sulfur, a mineral that helps rid the body of toxins.
6. Dandelion Root
Dandelion tea is an easy and effective way to support detoxification, it’s also a great substitute for coffee! It eases congestion of the liver and helps to purify the bladder and kidneys. Dandeolin also has a gentle laxative effect and is beneficial for sluggish bowels.
7. Beetroot
Give your liver a boost by incorporating beets into your diet. Beets contain liver-loving substances including: betaine, betalains, fiber, iron, betacyanin, folate, and betanin to support the detoxification process.
8. Asparagus
Asparagus contains glutathione, a potent antioxidant, well known for it’s detoxifying properties. It is a great source of fiber, folate, iron, vitamins A, C, E and K. Asparagus has natural diuretic properties and therefore a beneficial food for those with high blood pressure and other heart-related conditions. It also contains inulin – a prebiotic which helps support gut bacteria.
9. Onions
Onions are another vegetable source rich in sulfur-containing compounds, to support liver function.
10. Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass has an alkalising effect in the body due to it’s high chlorophyll content. Chlorophyll aids in oxygenating the blood, reducing over-acidity in the liver and blood.
