12 foods that help you detox

In this day and age, our lifestyles have given way to an unhealthy accumulation of toxins in our body. Toxins often enter the body through alcohol consumption and smoking among others. Toxic substances have the potential to damage the organs in the body, if left unchecked.  To revive a sluggish digestive system, a detox is a must.  In this aspect, the liver plays a vital role - as it helps in differenciating what is good and not good for our body.

Here's a list of fruits, nuts and vegetables that are known for their detoxing properties. Regular consumption of these fruits, vegetables and nuts will help you stay fit and healthy.

  
 

 

 

Lemons:  
Vitamin C-rich lemons are known to be good for one's health. This is because of the presence of citric acid in them, which naturally helps detoxify and rejuvenate the body. This citric acid enables easy digestion. Nutritionists recommend that we start our day with a glass of warm water with lemon because it helps remove the toxins in our body, and aids in faster metabolism. Besides this, they are a rich source of antioxidants. Not only does it cleanse your body from within, but externally, too, it benefits your skin by restoring its pH balance.

 

 

 

Berrylicious: 
The beauty of berries is that it can be consumed as is, in juice form or even as a salad. Light, healthy and refreshing, what’s not to love? Berries (strawberries, blueberries and raspberries) are rich in beta carotenes - an antioxidant. Besides this, they are also rich in fibre. Antioxidant pigments called anthocyanins present in berries helps fight against certain types of cancer, Alzheimer’s, and cardiac-related ailments among others.
 

 

 

Pomegranates:
Revered as a symbol of health and fertility, pomegranates are a nutrient- dense and antioxidant-rich fruit. Not only do they help one detox naturally, it also helps in strengthening one’s immune system thanks to the presence of flavonoids -  a type of antioxidant. Pomegranates reduces cholesterol, fights against the free radicals in our body, and prevents anemia. They are also known to be a powerhouse of nutrients including potassium, Vitamin C and fibre.

 

Leafy Greens:  
It is recommended that one should, as much as possible, include healthy leafy greens in our daily diet. These greens are rich in fibre that aids in the digestive process, and helps facilitate the removal of toxic substances in our body. The presence of iron in these green leafy vegetables helps the body carry healthy oxygenated blood through its red blood cells, which keeps one fit and healthy.

 

 

 

Garlic:
Used medicinally for ages, now, garlic is home to a natural agent called Allicin. This is responsible for its special flavor and unique taste. Garlic strengthens the immune system, and its consumption is said to increase white blood cells Do be warned,though; if garlic is consumed on an empty stomach, it is likely to cause an ulcer in the small intestine. This is why consuming one or two garlic pieces is recommended after a meal as it helps the body to detox naturally.

 

 

Linseeds:
Otherwise known as flaxseeds, it is an excellent source of getting rid of toxins. It’s like a DIY (do-it-yourself) colon cleanse minus the presence of a rather painful probe up your posterior.  It is rich in a type of omega-3 fatty acid called ALA (alpha-linolec acid). Linseeds or flaxseeds are meant to be ground and consumed, because it is difficult to digest as a whole. This can be done once a week. Linseeds are also known to relieve those suffering from IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).

 

 

 

Brown rice:
High in fibre, the brown rice - a whole grain - is a powerhouse of nutrients like Vitamin B1, B3 and B6, manganese and iron among others. When consumed, it works as a self-cleaning agent by cleaning out the intestinal tract and getting rid of the accumulated toxins.

 

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Walnuts:
Do you know that the most healthiest part of the walnut is its outermost paper-like layer? Not only does this nut called the "king of nuts", detox the body, it also sharpens the brain. It is home to omega 3 fatty acids and glutathione – a protein that eliminates toxins in the human body.  It is also a good source of copper and manganese as well. This nut is considered to be a powerful antioxidant because research shows that it has the ability to prevent liver damage. 
 

 

 

 

Turmeric:
This common ingredient is popular in Indian kitchens.  It is a powerful antioxidant because of the presence of curcumin, which has medicinal properties.  Tumeric or haldi as it's regionally known is said to eliminate the toxins that are stored in the intestines. It also prevents inflammation and protects the body against viruses, reduces heart-related diseases and protects the liver. Tumeric is very beneficial to those suffering from diabetes as well. Research shows that it can fight a good fight against cancer by curbing and reducing the growth of cancerous cells.  It also works as an effective antidepressant. 

 

 

Cumin Seeds: 
Also called jeera, cumin it is yet another ingredient that is commonly seen in Indian kitchens. Cumin seeds have compound in them called cuminaldehyde and thymol which are responsible for effective digestion and eases stomach cramps. Consuming it a little after having meals will eliminate all toxins from the body. It also works as an effective cure for those suffering from hemmoroids. 
Cumin seeds also improves and boosts one's immunity thanks to the presence of iron and vitamins among others. The presence of Vitamin C works as a powerful antioxidant which fights against the free radicals in our body.


 

Onions:
Raw onions have amino acids that are rich in sulphur. This, in turn,  triggers a faster digestive process, which facilitates the elimination of toxic substances from the body. Quercetin, present in onions has a number of benefits including lowering cholestrol and  fevers among others.  



 

Beetroots:
Beetroots are a great detox vegetable. Rich in antioxidants and nutrients like betaine, pectin and betalains which help eliminate and clear the toxins that have accumulated in the liver. They are also a wonderful source of dietry fibre. They can be had in a number of ways - eaten raw, can be drunk in smoothie-form,  or be added to salads. Beetroots are also known to soothe inflammation. All you have to do is drink a glass of beetroot juice.