Detox 101: Cleanse the Body and Soul

Detoxification is the body’s natural process of eliminating toxins from the body over the course of a few days or a few weeks.

The potentially harmful toxins stored within the body are broken down into less harmful components and released from the body. The source of various toxins in the body can vary from the breakdown of normal foods, chemicals in the environment such as pollution, cigarette smoke, food additives, etc. Whereas detox first came about as a primary treatment for drug and alcohol dependence, many have used the method of detoxing to release dietary or environmental toxins built up in the body.

Detoxing is generally a short term diet, but can be extended for longer periods of time. It generally involves minimizing the amount of ingested toxins, along with emphasizing the intake of foods with high vitamins, antioxidants and nutrients known to jump start the detoxification process.

The side effects of detoxing vary including fatigue, hunger and irregular bowl movements. After detoxing, people often report improved energy, clearer skin, regular bowel movements, and improved digestion.

The 10 Best Detox Foods

There are many foods that help to naturally cleanse the colon, enhance circulation and rid the body of accumulated toxins. Here is a list of the top ten staples to include in your detox diet.

• Water- Consuming at least 2 liters of water daily will help stimulate your kidneys, liver and digestive system. It will boost your metabolism, accelerating toxin and fat elimination.

• Seeds- A staple in Asian food, these tasty little seeds protect your liver from the effects of harmful toxins.

• Beans- All types of beans and lentils, both canned in water or dried, enhance your liver’s ability to rid the body of toxins.

• Herbal Teas- There are many types of herbal teas, all helpful in detoxing your body. Most are good aids in stimulating digestion, soothing the stomach and enhancing over all bodily function. Choose one or two that you most enjoy and drink it regularly.

• Garlic- It is a blood cleanser and a natural antibiotic. It even lowers blood pressure.

• Lemons- Lemons are touted for their ability to detox the liver. The lemon juice improves digestion, thus decreasing the filtering load placed on the liver.

• Cabbage- This vegetable along with others of its kind (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts etc) support the liver’s ability to cleanse away toxins.

• Onions- This potent vegetable is very helpful in the elimination of heavy metals from the body.

• Psyllium- This is a plant very rich is soluble-fiber. Psyllium can be found most commonly in powdered form and is great to include in juice to help reduce your cholesterol and cleanse your colon.

• Brown Rice- This healthy carb is rich in iodine, potassium and essential minerals. This fiber rich food is easy to digest and leaves you feeling satiated.