The goal of a detox diet is to rid the body of accumulated toxins. Even if we have a lifestyle that we consider relatively healthy, the body will still be exposed to toxins.
What is a detox cure?
A detox cure aims to rid the body of toxins by adopting a specific diet, favoring detox foods for a period of time, that is, those that have the power to detoxify the body. This cure will help support the excretory organs in their purification functions.
Why do a detox cure?
Sometimes the organs responsible for eliminating waste from the body no longer function properly, a bit like a car engine that is so clogged that it needs an emergency service! Pollution, alcohol, tobacco, medication, stress and poor diet are responsible for an excessive accumulation of toxins. By cleansing the body with detox foods, we reset the counters and the excretory organs such as the liver, kidneys and intestines become more efficient .
Top 10 Detox Foods
So in addition to the basic detox advice, such as practicing a sporting activity and avoiding products that clog the liver (alcohol, cold meats, sugar, salt, additives) , we present to you 10 foods that have this detoxifying power!
1 - Garlic, a detox and stimulant food
Garlic has the ability to activate and stimulate enzymes that eliminate toxins. Its composition is also rich in selenium and allicin: these two nutrients stimulate the liver's detoxifying functions. A natural antibiotic, it also helps treat diseased livers.
2 - Grapefruit, a detox and regenerating food
Grapefruit is also an ally for the liver . It also allows this action of regeneration of already present damage. This is made possible thanks to its content of naringin, a flavonoid which helps burn fat stored in the liver, whose functions can be severely affected by an excessive concentration of fat cells. In addition, this fruit also boosts detoxification enzymes.
3 - Lemon juice, a detox and cleansing food
Perhaps the most well-known detox tip, but if it is, it's surely because it's effective. Lemon juice diluted in warm water in the morning helps detoxify the body and cleanse the liver. The reason? This good habit is said to stimulate bile production, which improves digestion at the same time. Be careful, however, this is a behavior to adopt as a cure; it's best not to exceed 21 days of treatment.
4 - Black radish, a detox and draining food
A lesser-known but well-known tip is eating black radish. This food is an excellent liver cleanser, so much so that it's also available as a dietary supplement. It comes in all its forms for cooking: raw, grated, sliced, cooked, as a side dish, and more. It's also included in our DIJO Detox Potion.
5 - Beetroot, a detox and antioxidant food
Beetroot contains two compounds that are beneficial for maintaining a healthy liver:
- Methionine: an antioxidant that promotes the elimination of toxins
- Betanin : a natural pigment that partly gives beetroot its purple color. It desaturates liver fat, thanks to better assimilation/elimination of fatty acids.
6 - Cabbage, a powerful detox food
Cabbage contains glucosinolate, a sulfur-containing compound that helps release those famous enzymes essential for eliminating toxins. Cruciferous vegetables in general are good detox allies because they contain many antioxidants. To fully benefit from them, cook them al dente.
7 - Leek, a detox and diuretic food
Its high potassium content makes it a detoxifying and diuretic vegetable; its consumption increases urine production and therefore allows for better waste elimination. A bonus: it contains kaempferol, an antioxidant that protects organs from free radicals.
8 - Pineapple, a fat-burning detox food
This fruit is known for its fat-burning properties, essential for maintaining the integrity of the liver, whose functions are slowed down when it is invaded by fat cells. This is a very common phenomenon; many people have a "fatty" liver without knowing it. Although it has no symptoms, this phenomenon can lead to much more serious pathologies.
9 - Apple cider vinegar, a detox and antibacterial food
The antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar prevent buildup and stagnation in the intestines. It also helps reduce bloating .
10 - Water, essential for detox
The most essential point of a good detox: pay particular attention to your water intake. While it should be fairly substantial throughout the year, during the detox period, it is essential for good effectiveness. 2 liters of water per day is therefore a minimum, and you will go without alcohol for at least a while.
Overall, favoring a diet rich in fiber and antioxidants promotes the elimination of waste and cleanses the body of toxins, so for this, we don't skimp on fruits and vegetables!
The combination of these elements, associated with a healthy and balanced diet, allows you to regain a state of homeostasis in your excretory organs, and to promote vitality, weight regulation, energy, etc.
Sources:
SCHRADER R. (1956). Black radish in the treatment of liver and bile duct diseases. Hippokrates , 27 (17), 561–563.
