Top 5 Best Foods and Drinks for a Detox

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In modern life, the body is attacked every day by harmful or potentially harmful substances. There are chemicals in the drinking water, in conventionally raised foods, in the very air. While it is possible with a healthy lifestyle to avoid some contact with these contaminants, they are too widespread to eliminate exposure altogether.

That is where detoxing comes in. Taking time out to eat foods – and drink beverages – that will help the body remove toxins and other unwanted substances is incredibly important for liver function and for continued overall health. The foods and beverages below are some of the best to include in the diet for a detox program.

Water

Enough cannot be said about the importance of water for any detox program. Water helps remove extra wastes from the body via the urinary tract and the increased urination will help to flush many unwanted substances from the body. Try to drink at least 8-10 8-ounce glasses of water daily to make sure the body it getting enough. (1)

Green Tea

It is not surprise that green tea, with all its amazing health benefits, should be a natural detoxifier, too. The strong antioxidant properties in green tea strengthen the body’s immune system and make it easier for the liver, for instance, to function at its best and actually eliminate pathogens before they can settle into the body and do harm. (2)

Cucumber

There are many reasons why cucumber is such a great natural detoxifier. First, it is mostly water and so it contributes to the body’s overall hydration level, which needs to be high in order for a detox to take place. Cucumbers also are high in fiber. Fiber is a great natural detoxifier because it can bind with many toxins and force them to be eliminated from the body. (3)

Cabbage

Cabbage, a member of the illustrious crucifer family which also includes nutritional superstars like broccoli and kale, is another excellent detoxifier. Not only it is high in fiber and water like cucumbers, it also contains glucosinolates, sulfur-containing compounds which among other things help to remove harmful toxins from the body naturally. (4)

Kombucha

This fermented tea drink, which is becoming extremely popular across the country, is another great detox choice. Not only does it contribute to hydration levels, but its many antioxidants and other compounds as well as its probiotic bacteria content help to nourish the digestive and immune system and make it easier for body to deal with these pathogens on their own. (5)

Any of these foods can be found right in any health food store or mainstream grocery market. They are not exotic or pricey, but each and every one of them can help to detoxify the body and remove wastes from it before they can do damage to long-term health.

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Christine . S
Christine has written articles on most health-related topics, including traditional medicine, alternative and naturopathic and natural treatments, wellness, medical marijuana, diets and fitness.