Detox diets and cleansing regimens have become popular for those seeking to rid their bodies of toxins and promote overall well-being. While the body has its own built-in detoxification systems, such as the liver and kidneys, certain foods can support these processes and provide essential nutrients. 

Here are some of the best foods for detox.

1. Leafy Greens

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Kale, spinach, chard, and other leafy greens are rich in chlorophyll, which helps the body detoxify from heavy metals, pesticides, and other toxins.

They also provide essential nutrients and dietary fiber that support various detoxification pathways, while their anti-inflammatory properties and alkalising effect enhance the body's efficiency in removing waste and harmful substances. 

2. Cruciferous Vegetables

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Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage contain sulfur compounds that support the liver in its detoxification processes. 

In addition, they also contain a variety of antioxidants and phytochemicals that combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, further aiding in detoxification.

Delicious and nutritious, what else can you ask for?

3. Citrus Fruits

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Lemons, oranges, and grapefruits are high in vitamin C, which helps the body produce glutathione, a compound used by the liver to remove toxins.

Additionally, the natural acidity in citrus fruits can stimulate digestive enzymes, aiding in the efficient breakdown and removal of waste and toxins from the body.

4. Berries

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They don't call berries a superfood for nothing. Not only are they rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which collectively support heart health, they also help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, combat inflammation, and promote healthy digestion.

Their high antioxidant content helps neutralise and remove harmful toxins and free radicals from our body, making them a must-have food in any person's detox diet.

5. Garlic

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The next time somebody complains about your garlicky breath, tell them you are just detoxifying your body.

The reason why garlic has that strong, pungent smell is due to the high levels of sulfur compounds. When you eat garlic, they react with enzymes to form allicin, the main contributor to the pungent odour of garlic.

Sulfur compounds help the liver activate enzymes responsible for flushing out toxins, so keep going with those garlic.

6. Ginger

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You know when you get a cold and your parents make you that cup of hot ginger tea? Ginger's warming qualities are known to promote sweating, helping the body eliminate toxins through the skin.

Additionally, ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties and can support digestion and reduce nausea, making it a helpful addition to a detox diet.

7. Turmeric

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Turmeric is prized for its detoxification properties due to its active compound, curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support the body's natural detox processes. It aids the liver in metabolizing and eliminating toxins and may help reduce oxidative stress. 

8. Green Tea

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Green tea is a popular choice for detoxification because it contains a group of antioxidants known as catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which support the body's natural detox processes by combating free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. 

Research has also shown that the low obesity and mortality rate in Japan can be attributed to their diet - low consumption of red meat, and high consumption of fish and plant foods such as soybeans and tea.

So remember, drink less sugary drinks and more tea if you want to live longer!

9. Artichokes

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Artichokes contain cynarin, a compound that stimulates bile production, aiding in the digestion and elimination of toxins. They are commonly featured in Mediterranean diets, such as salads, pasta, and appetisers. 

You can find fresh artichokes at places like Redmart and Cold Storage.

10. Detox Enzymes

In addition to a balanced diet, health supplements like Kinohimitsu's Detox Enzyme can also fill the gaps in your nutrition intake and aid in detoxification.

The Detox Enzyme blend contains plant-based enzymes from over 75 fruits & vegetables, which are fermented for 365 days using a unique proprietary process to produce enzymes that aid in digestion and nutrient absorption.

According to Kinohimitsu, the Detox Enzyme is good for people facing weight gain, fatigue, bloating, skin allergy, blemishes, and even body odour problems. 

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Cover image by Engin Akyurt on Unsplash.