13 Nutrients That Will Help Detox Your Body
Are you in need of a detox? Is your metabolism sluggish, are you coming off a vacation or the holiday season and just want to get your body cleaned out and feeling good? Then here are some foods you want to add to your grocery cart!
1. Carrots
Rich in beta-carotene, antioxidants and plant flavonoids, carrots also boast a unique amount of polyacetylenes. Antioxidants and polyacetylenes work together to prevent oxidation in the body. Fiber promotes regular passage of waste and toxins. Carrots are an excellent source of vitamins A, K and C, as well as potassium.
2. Garlic
Long since known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic activates liver enzymes to aid in digestion. Additionally, freshly crushed garlic contains potent amounts of allicin, an antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic and antiviral powerhouse nutrient. Sulfur compounds also assist in binding and eliminating toxins.
3. L-Tox
Max Muscle Nutrition’s L-Tox contains specific herbs and nutraceuticals that support two phases of the liver’s detoxification process. L-Tox also contains nutrients that support the synthesis of glutathione, a three amino acid product known to be one of the body’s strongest antioxidants.
4. Olive Oil
Most people know that olive oil is considered one of the healthiest fat sources. Like avocados, olive oil is rich in oleic acid, which assists in nutrient absorption and digestive health. Monounsaturated fats are largely present in olive oil and help protect against oxidation. According to DaVita (davita.com), a leading healthcare provider for kidney disease treatment and education, olive oil is recommended for people with kidney disease as one of the best food choices.
5. Apples
This delicious fruit is super rich in polyphenols, antioxidants that protect against cancer and cardiovascular disease. Apples also contain some fiber and vitamin C. It’s recommended to eat the entire apple (including the skin) for the most health benefits and the highest amount of polyphenols.
6. Grapefruit
This juicy, tangy citrus fruit is rich in vitamin C. Plus, the pink and red varieties contain lycopene, a known antioxidant. Grapefruit has been found to increase urinary pH and citric acid excretion, reducing risk of formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones.
7. Avocados
This high-fat fruit is rich in oleic acid, which helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins by assisting in the formation of transport molecules in the digestive system. Avocados also contain anti-cancer agents, essential fatty acids and fiber.
8. Probiotics
The flora of the gut, or digestive tract, maintains the health of your immunity and your body’s detox ability when populated with good bacteria. In order to establish healthy bacteria, probiotics can be taken in the form of supplements or cultured foods. Susan Patterson, co-author of 19 Naturally Detoxifying Superfoods, weighed in on the importance of probiotics:
“With consumption of denatured food, the overuse of antibiotics and a heavy insult of toxins, healthy gut flora is being compromised. New research is pointing to the fact that disrupted gut flora may be one of the leading causes of a number of serious medical conditions,” she said. “Healthy bacteria are responsible for providing a natural barrier between all sorts of invaders, including parasites, viruses and toxins. Probiotics are a necessary part of detoxification and break down pesticides and help carry heavy metals out of the body while boosting immune function.”
9. Max Power Greens
This supplement from Max Muscle Nutrition contains ingredients that boost all three of the body’s detox systems. Prebiotics and probiotics aid in digestion and immunity, while chlorophyll-rich greens assist in cleansing the body. A potent blend of greens and fruit help you get the benefits of eating a large amount of produce without the bulk.
10. Red Bell Peppers
The red color of this particular bell pepper is due to its high lycopene content. In addition, red peppers contain vitamins A and B6 and more than 30 carotenoids.
11. Water
It might seem simple, but that doesn’t lessen the importance of water and its role in cleansing the body. Staying hydrated ensures proper liver and kidney function by lessening the work on these vital organs. Water also helps dissolve nutrients and carries them to the body’s cells for various functions.
12. Cabbage
Cabbage and similar cruciferous vegetables are rich in sulfur compounds, which bind to toxins and get excreted through waste. Cabbage also stimulates the production of important liver detoxifying enzymes, including bile. The cultured versions of this vegetable – kimchi and sauerkraut – boast potent probiotic bacteria as well. Be sure to look for lacto fermented kimchi and sauerkraut in order to get the live cultures.
13. Fish
Fish containing high amounts of essential fatty acids (EFA), particularly omega-3, support a healthy immune and digestive system, the body’s first two defenses against toxins and pathogens. EFA’s also offer anti-inflammatory and heart healthy benefits. Omega-3 rich fish include mackerel, trout, tuna, cod, sardines and salmon.
By Alissa Carpio
