We live in a world full of toxins and substances that can harm us. For this reason, it’s important to take steps to minimize exposure and detoxify regularly. Of course, our diet and lifestyle play the largest roles in our overall health and ability to successfully beat the negative effects of our society. Consider doing some research on healthful living and how to eat for a cleaner body. Here are some of my favorite ingredients to add to drinks, smoothies, and meals for healthful detoxing.
Lemon
Adding lemon to warm water in the morning before you eat or drink anything else is highly recommended for aiding digestion and removing toxins from the body. For those of you who are prone to dehydration and have even needed IV Therapy because of it, lemon helps keep you hydrated throughout the day.
Additionally, lemon is high in vitamin C, promotes clear skin, and helps you feel fresh and energetic. The detoxing property of lemon will also create a positive ripple effect throughout the body.
Greens
Using greens in juice and smoothies is one of the most popular choices when it comes to detoxing. If you have a juicer or good blender, add your greens in combination with other fruits and veggies for a delicious drink. Some of my favorites include raw baby spinach, kale, dark lettuce, and dandelion greens. Here is a yummy smoothie recipe you can try today. Mix for several minutes, as the spinach leaves need extra time to break down. If you are actively trying to detox or cleanse, drink this several times a day for at least 3 days for best results.
- 1/2 Apple
- 1/2 banana
- 1/2 avocado
- 2 cups raw spinach
- ⅓ cucumber
- 1 tbsp spirulina
- 1 carrot
- several fresh mint leaves
Dandelion Tea
Some herbal teas can be a good choice for detoxing, but there are some that are more efficient. Dandelion is one of those ingredients that I consider a homerun hitter. Believe it or not, dandelion is one of the most nutritionally dense plants on the planet. One of the reasons it is good for detoxing is that it aids the liver in its general function, as well as promote faster removal of toxins from the body.
Keep in mind, dandelion isn’t the best tasting choice, but it works well and gives the body nutrition, antioxidants, and even boosts the immune system.
Cayenne Pepper
If you can handle the heat, add some cayenne pepper to that lemon water or green drink in the morning. Hot spices such as cayenne pepper speed up the body’s digestion process, aiding in detox and elimination in general. It can actually boost metabolism temporarily as well. You can also use it on foods to add even more of this powerhouse ingredient to your diet.
Ginger
Ginger is another ingredient like cayenne pepper that helps digestion and metabolism. Its anti-inflammatory properties help your body to reduce bloating and swelling from general inflammation. This is especially helpful for issues in the colon. Ginger is versatile, as you can add it to teas, smoothies, juices, and in cooking. I use it in combination with lemon and cayenne to create a power drink.
Strawberry and Lime Combo
Strawberry and lime is a perfect combo to use as a water infusion. Simply add both to a pitcher of water and put in the fridge for the night. Drink this throughout your day for a delicious, hydrating, detoxifying treat. The extra vitamin C and antioxidants help your body fight the adverse effects of pollution and toxins we all come in contact with in daily life. You can also juice these ingredients for an even more powerful shot of goodness.
Do also remember that the most important thing you can do to detoxify your body is to drink enough pure water regularly. Go for half your body weight in ounces daily. I find that tracking my water intake helps to keep me consistent. Try drinking more water for a week and notice how you feel. I’m betting you’ll notice a difference in your energy, sleep, and even how your skin looks.
**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Women’s lifelink, it’s owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.