They're chockfull of almost all of the good things above: vitamin C, fiber, nutritious fluids, and all kinds of great-for-you antioxidants. Besides, nothing is more refreshing than a ripe and juicy mango, fresh berries, or a perfect pair.
A plant that's rich in soluble fiber, like oat bran or flax seed, but more versatile, it clears out toxins and cholesterol. Stir it into juice to help cleanse the colon, or have psyllium-fortified Bran Buds for breakfast.
There are two main types of detoxifying enzymes in the liver; this potent leafy vegetable helps activate both of them. Not a fan of cabbage straight up? Try chopping it up and throwing it in soup. Or, opt for coleslaw next time you hit a backyard barbeque.
7. Sesame Seeds
Who knew these little seeds could pack such power? They're credited with protecting liver cells from alcohol and other damaging chemicals.
For a concentrated form, try tahini, the yummy sesame seed paste that's a staple in Asian cuisine.
6. Broccoli Sprouts
Similar to bean sprouts, you can find them at your health food store. They pack 20-50 times more cancer-fighting, enzyme -stimulating activity into each bite than the larger, grown-up versions of the vegetable.
5. Green Tea
We all know by now that this is the drink of Gods, but why's it good for detoxing?
Rich in antioxidants, green tea is one of the healthiest ways to get more fluids into your system. And bonus: it contains catechins, which speed up liver activity.
Not only does garlic taste great, but it's great for you! My grandma used to pop one whole garlic clove a day. While I wouldn’t recommend that extreme, grandma knew what she was doing. Garlic has been linked to heart-health and activates liver enzymes that help filter out junk.
Add it to everything- salads, sauces, spreads.
3. Watercress
Throw a handful of these peppery little greens into salads, soups and sandwiches. Watercress has a diuretic effect that helps to move things through your system. It’s also rich in minerals like iron, calcium and folic acid, and vitamins A and C. Some even believe this leafy green has cancer-preventing properties.
2. LemonsAn essential part of a detox diet is keeping the fluids flowing and washing out the toxins. While water is great, fresh lemonade is even better. It's loaded with vitamin C, known as the detox vitamin, which helps to convert toxins into a water-soluble form that's easily flushed away. The bottom line: start squeezing!
1. Green Leafy Vegetables
Foods like spinach, watercress and kale are all great for flushing out the system. Their chlorophyll helps to flush out environmental toxins like heavy metals and pesticides, and they protect the liver. Eat them raw, thrown them in a broth, or blend up a juice or smoothie with fruit for a yummy and healthful alternative to sugar-filled juices or soda.
With summer swinging into gear, there's no better time to give your body a healthy, fresh start. The following posts will give you the best foods to do these three things:
1. Give you lots of super healthy liquids to flush out the body while pouring in the nutrients.
2. Fiber, fiber, fiber to keep you GI tract fit.
