We are constantly exposed to toxins all around us, from what we eat, drink and in our environment. Our body naturally detoxifies through different organs like the liver, skin, kidneys, digestive and lymphatic systems and via functions such as circulation, sweating, breathing and digestion.
We can support our body to detoxify by making some simple lifestyle changes and I’m sharing five things that you can easily do at home.
Stay hydrated
Start the day with one or two glasses of warm water and you can add some lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to it. Then through the day drink water, as it is essential for so many functions in the body. It also supports detoxification via our skin, digestive system, and kidneys. If you don’t like the taste of water, then have water infused with herbs, spices, fruits, and vegetables. Can add cucumber, lemon/orange slices or fennel seeds or mint leaves to give your water different flavours, so you enjoy drinking it daily.
Smoothie for breakfast
Smoothies are delicious and quick and simple to make, plus easy to digest. Make a cool refreshing smoothie with 1½ cups of coconut water, handful of baby spinach, 1 cup of berries, 2 tablespoons rolled oats, 1-teaspoon chia seeds and some water or ice. This will serve two. Don’t have smoothies made just with fruits, as it’s then high in sugar.
Include vegetables daily
Have a large portion of vegetables at both lunch and dinner time as these are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre. Do include cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, rocket leaves, and Brussels sprouts as these contain a phytochemical called sulforaphane that’s associated with being anti-inflammatory. You can have your vegetables either cooked or raw, what’s important is that you enjoy eating a variety of vegetables daily.
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Fibre
Our digestive system needs fibre to eliminate waste, which removes toxins from the body. Eat high fibre foods including whole grains like wholewheat, brown rice or quinoa. Do also have fresh fruits for snack or dessert like apple, pear, or berries. And include in your diet beans and lentils which are not only high in fibre, but a good source of protein too.
Reduce or avoid processed foods
These are packaged foods that are high in additives, sugar, fat, and salt and eating these frequently is associated with weight gain. You don’t have to stop sugar completely, as can substitute refined white sugar with raw sugar or honey. If possible, reduce your sugar intake, eg from one teaspoon to half teaspoon.
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Sujata Din is a Certified Health Coach and Certified Professional Cancer Coach. In this regular column for iGlobal, she offers some special insights, from useful wellness tips to recipes for creations that are not only delicious but also healthy.
*Info: 5-Day Sugar Challenge