We share the world with billions of other people and with a multitude of industrialized nations. When you add up all of the manufacturing plants, exhaust pipes and smaller sources of toxins-like cleaning products, cosmetics, prescription drugs, plastic packaging and more-the concept of detoxifying your body has immense merit.
But where do you start? Are you wondering exactly how to detox? Remember, your goal is to create new, healthier eating habits that lighten your toxic load and strengthen your body for better everyday health. These 13 habits will help you do a full body detox and make way for new energy and vitality.
Avoid Sugar and Artificial Sweeteners. To get the most from your body cleanse, select natural sweeteners like stevia, molasses, maple syrup, honey, etc. Opting for raw honey like Manuka honey could be a better option to replace your sugar content.
Beware the Deadly Whites. White flour (and pasta), rice and bread can interfere with proper digestive flow. Try quinoa, Kamut®, spelt, buckwheat or cornmeal.
Steer Clear of fried foods, red meat and other processed foods.
Try to Avoid Wheat/Gluten, Dairy, Soy and Corn. These common food sensitivities can increase gut permeability and allow toxins into the bloodstream, which stalls weight loss.
Remove Toxic Oils. Stay away from vegetable oil, sunflower oil, canola oil and peanut oil. Avoid trans fats or “partially hydrogenated” foods. Instead choose coconut, flaxseed, extra-virgin olive or hemp oil, which contain more beneficial omega fatty acids.
Pick Quality Protein. Liver detox pathways require protein. Choose grass-fed or wild-caught options where possible.
Fiber it Up! Add some good stuff to your natural detox diet, including:
whole grains
fresh, organic, non-starchy veggies like broccoli, cauliflower and spinach, and spices such as garlic and turmeric
fruit (offers antioxidants, fiber and water)
beans and lentils (provides soluble and insoluble fiber)
seeds and nuts, like almonds, sunflower, flax, chia and walnuts (help with gut health and liver function)
Water. Skip the soda. Scrap the spirits. Drink plenty of water. Alcohol overworks the liver and can damage this critical organ. Water (preferably filtered and room temperature) helps your kidneys function properly and flush toxins from the body. Add lemon to support digestion, or try sipping green tea to help with cardio and immune support.
Drink Fresh Veggie Juice. Juicing is a wonderful way to get powerful nutrients and enzymes into your diet. Add some spinach, kale or other deep greens along with ginger, beets, carrots, turmeric and other colorful veggies and roots.
Probiotics. Friendly bacteria can do wonders for your detox diet plan. Get them naturally in foods like kombucha, kefir, miso, natural yogurt, kimchi and sauerkraut. Or supplement with a product that contains several strains of friendly flora.
Slow Down at the Dining Table. Eating quickly usually leads to eating more, which spells bloating and indigestion. Take your time. Savor each bite. You’ll find that you eat smaller portions and feel better, and you may even lose weight!
Move! Exercise helps you eliminate toxins. Work up a sweat and you’ll improve circulation and burn fat more effectively. Walk, dance, do yoga, just move!
Get Your Zzzzzs. Adequate rest helps the brain detoxify itself. (See the glymphatic system.) Sleep also helps reduce stress and inflammation, which may help you overcome your toxic burden. Get at least 7 hours of sleep each night.
Tips for Detox Success
Try phasing out things like caffeine, sugar and artificial sweeteners in the days before you really start your detox diet. This helps minimize potential nausea and headache.
Map out your eating plan and you’re more likely to stick with it.
Cleanse your kitchen/pantry of any foods or drinks that would sabotage your detox decision.
By day 4 or 5 of your new diet, you should start feeling more energetic and see improved digestion.
Massage helps release toxins from the muscles and tissues. Follow with plenty of water.
Don’t get overwhelmed. If you can only adopt 1 or 2 new, healthier habits, be happy with that. Save some for next time.
Don’t be afraid to do some research about how beneficial taking specific supplements, like spirulina, can be to the detoxification process, as it will help to further eliminate any harmful substances from your body.
People with chronic health issues like diabetes, liver disease, cancer or eating disorders should consult their doctor before making dietary changes.
The Emotional Detox Component
The best way to detoxify is cleansing emotionally as well as physically. Try these tips for a more complete experience.
