These days, detox diets have become quite a fad. While there are some that claim to give a flawless skin, others brand it as a quick way to lose weight. What you eat definitely has a major effect on your body and skin.
So, be cautious about the detox diet plans that you follow and foods that you chose to eat. To help you out in your detoxification mission, we will help you with foods that cleanse your body the right way. Follow the list and do some intelligent grocery shopping next time you hit the supermarket.
1. Beetroot
This vegetable is rich in vitamins B3, B6, C and beta-carotene that optimally fire up the detoxification process. They strengthen the functioning of liver and gallbladder that are of great importance when it comes to removing toxins from our system. They are rich in fibre too, which aids digestion. You can eat it in raw form, include it in recipes or have it in form of juice.
2. Avocados
Avocados are a powerhouse of antioxidants, which are known to show the harmful toxins a way out of your body. Although, you may avoid it because it is high in fat, but you do not realise that it is rich in monounsaturated fats that lower the bad LDL cholesterol. So, time to stop running away from this wonder fruit.
3. Apples
Apples are high in soluble and insoluble fibre that soaks up toxins and waste and throws it out of your body. It also sweeps the intestinal tract that has residue of toxins and undigested food particles. Your body also gets some essential vitamins, minerals and flavonoids that stimulate bile production that aids liver gets rid of toxins.
4. Pomegranates
Besides detoxification, this red-coloured fruit is also rich in anthocyanins, an antioxidant, which guards you against the risks of inflammation, heart disease, and diabetes. You can sprinkle pomegranate on top of your breakfast cereal or in vegetable raita or have it in the form of juice. A few types of research also indicate that this fruit helps in slowing your skin’s ageing process by controlling the damage caused due to the weakening of collagen in the skin.
5. Lemons
Lemon is the most popular among detox foods as it flushes toxins out of our bodies with immense ease. If you have digestive problems, you can add a few drops of lemon juice in a cup of hot water (no sugar though) and drink it as soon as you wake up. You can also use lemon juice instead of vinegar as a dressing in salads.
6. Garlic
Garlic is crucial for detoxification as it is high in a sulphur content that is integral in neutralising toxins and heavy metals until they are excreted out of the body. We won’t ask you to eat it raw, rather encourage you to include it as an ingredient while preparing food. Garlic is also known for its antibiotic, antiviral and antiseptic properties.
7. Ginger
It is said that a detox plan is incomplete without ginger. Compounds called gingerols and shogaols promote detoxification by speeding up the movement of food in the intestines. It also has an anti-inflammatory benefit and helps ease a sore throat and nausea. It also improves digestion. You can drink ginger-lemon tea if you don’t like chewing it.
8. Cabbages
This green cruciferous veggie is rich in sulphur that breaks down toxic substances. It is a good idea to include it in your food palette for good health and longevity. In addition to detoxification, it is competent in eliminating carcinogens, cancer-causing substances from the body. You can dice it in olive oil, or have it as a vegetable juice.
