Tagbilaran, Bohol – The most effective way to cleanse your body is to consume detoxifying foods and beverages that keep it clean and healthy.

Cruciferous and green leafy vegetables have anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties, according to the journal Evidence-Based Complementary Alternative Medicine. They are also high in fiber, which promotes toxin excretion via bile and stool. Malunggay, spinach, pechay, scallion (spring onions), lettuce, and other examples can be found in your backyard garden.

Foods with naturally occurring citric acid such as lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruits, berries protect the liver function and prevent oxidative stress, according to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food. It is important however, to brush your teeth immediately after drinking lemon water or any acidic beverage because this can damage the enamel on your teeth.

Seaweed that contains iodine and other nutrients aid in detoxification and protects the liver from toxicity. Like wheatgrass, some seaweeds contain chlorophyll, which helps in the cleansing of the digestive tract. Chlorophyll also prevents the accumulation of aflatoxins and help facilitate the repair of damage brought about by the toxins we ingest.

Foods rich in magnesium such as green leafy vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, whole grains, peanut butter, breakfast cereals, avocados, and chicken breast and foods high in potassium like beans, potatoes including sweet potatoes, beets, spinach, tomatoes, oranges, bananas, and avocados also help to protect blood vessels and combat the negative effects of stress. // ND II Annie Claire B. Añasco, RND

Sources:
Archive of "Journal of Evidence-based Complementary & Alternative Medicine". - PMC (nih.gov)
Citric acid effects on brain and liver oxidative stress in lipopolysaccharide-treated mice - PubMed (nih.gov)
Seaweed: Detox protection and super source of nutrients - Easy Health Options®