Why Detox?

More and more individuals are considering a detox diet.  What does detoxification mean?  Quite simply it means to remove harmful toxins from our system.  The toxins that invade our bodies not only come from the pollution in the air  but what many are not aware of is that it is also found in the foods we eat, and the water we drink.

Many of the toxins found in our foods are from the pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides and insecticides.   These chemicals will seep into the soil which are then absorbed through the leaves and the roots, hence the fruits and vegetables we are ingesting.  But not so quick, although the fruits,  nuts and vegetables end up with harmful toxins many of the other foods we eat are also at risk.  Livestock, fowl, and farmed fished are given color enhancers, antibiotics, steroids and other hormones.  Many of these animals are also fed genetically altered foods, not to mention that they also eat the contaminated plants as we do.

With all that bad news, I do have good news to share.  Many of the toxins that accumulate in our systems can be reversed or eliminated.  By adapting an overall healing plan toxin removal can be accomplished.

In order for a whole body healing plan to take effect we must exercise, we must get fresh air, drink clean water, have limited sun exposure and an overall healthier diet.  Some of the same foods that cause the toxins can be used for detoxification.  Sounds, strange but as long as the food is purer it will work.   The fruits and vegetables must be free of pesticides or other harmful ingredients, as well as not have been exposed to radiation or other methods of shelf-life extension.  The foods you will look for are those labeled as ‘certified organic‘.  These foods were simply grown using minimal or no chemicals at all.  The good news is that many grocery stores are also carrying certified organic produce and will continue to as long as you ask for it.

Below are a list of foods that will help heal and cleanse the body.  The benefits of these foods are well documented.

• Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts and any other cruciferous vegetables – excellent for energizing and cleansing the liver, which is your body’s built-in detox center. Spinach has been shown to soothe the nervous system and protect it against and possibly reverse macular degeneration.

• Lemons, watercress, garlic, oregano, sesame seeds – are all powerful detoxifying foods.  These foods aid in colon-cleansing and also contain anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties.

• Legumes, such as kidney beans and lentils – the best sources for folate, which helps to fight heart disease.

• Chili Peppers - the hot stuff found in these peppers called, capsaicin has been found to soothe the stomach lining, and helps detoxify the body and fight against colds.

• Sweet Potatoes – contain double the Vitamin C, more fiber and fewer calories than white potatoes.  These potatoes also contain antioxidants that may help to reduce the inflammation in bones and muscles.  They are also a great source of beta-carotene which protects against infections in the respiratory system, as well as protect against sunburn and help wounds heal and scars to fade.

It is understood that ‘certified organic’ foods are somewhat costly.  However, the best way to combat the unfortunate deficiency and nutrition that is found in our foods is to supplement.  When looking for a good supplement, you must avoid over-the-counter pills, capsules or powders that contain synthetic ingredients, additives, preservatives and fillers.  Look for organically complexed supplements derived from whole foods that are minimally processed.

Let’s face it, our bodies are the only ones we have.  Good health is worth the investment you make and of course the choice is ultimately yours.

Tagged as: antioxidant, exercise, Fruits And Vegetables, Health, health tips, organic, organic foods, pesticides