Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 6 Detoxifying foods you should be eating

Juice cleanses and supplement powders have become very popular lately. But they are quite expensive and don’t work half as well as your body’s natural processes. Every time you sweat, exhale or use the restroom you are detoxifying!

Your liver, kidneys, skin, lungs, and digestive tract are all designed to process waste and toxins efficiently. While they typically do well on their own, stress, fried foods and alcohol along with environmental pollutants can make these organs’ jobs a little harder. 

Here is a list of foods that can help your organs to better perform their daily tasks:

Broccoli sprouts are rich in glucoraphanin. Chewing sprouts releases myrosinase that converts glucoraphanin into sulforaphane. This helps ensure toxins are effectively neutralized and prepared for safe elimination. 

Chlorella is a type of freshwater algae that binds to heavy metals in the digestive tract before they can enter the bloodstream. Besides heavy metals from the environment, people with long term dental work or implants are at risk for elevated levels. It can be taken as a supplement. 

Fiber rich foods like seeds, beans, lentils, fruits and vegetables are natural ways to support your body’s detoxification. Fiber binds to waste products ensuring they are efficiently carried out. 

Brazil nuts are one of the richest sources of selenium, essential for production of glutathione peroxidase that reduces oxidative stress and neutralizes free radicals. This helps shield the liver from oxidative damage. 

Milk thistle is another herb known for promoting liver health. It may protect inflammation in liver cells. It is available in supplement form. 

Beets are a great source of betalains, an antioxidant that is the pigment responsible for beets’ deep red color. They protect liver cells from inflammation and oxidative stress. Beets also contain nitrates that are converted to nitric oxide that improves blood flow by dilating blood vessels. This indirectly supports kidney function through enhanced circulation. 

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago