Why You Shouldn't Believe the Detox Hype

The term “Detox” is a measurement considered to recover from substance abuse or exposure to severe toxins; having eaten the whole fridge doesn't apply.

We often tend to believe that buying special potions or expensive pills will purify us of all our “nutritional sins.” The liver, kidney and colon trap toxins and most people reason that you need to clean them out by fasting or drinking certain mixes, but that is not completely correct. These 3 do function as elimination organs, and if working properly, they don’t need to be “cleaned out” to eliminate toxins and wastes. Mayo Clinic agrees, “There’s little evidence that detox diets actually remove toxins from the body. Indeed, the kidneys and liver effectively filter and eliminate most ingested toxins. The benefits from a detox diet may actually come from avoiding highly processed foods that have solid fats and added sugar.” 

When it comes to detox marketing, it seems like the crazier the better. Packages of pills, powders, and drinks are promoted worldwide as we punish ourselves by taking these non-sense lies. You don’t have to suffer with horrible side effects from these detoxes as your body will cleanse itself if you just eat a balanced diet packed with fruits, vegetables, proteins, good carbs and healthy fats.

There are many REAL FOODS that naturally detox and cleanse our systems. 

• Cucumber: Almost all water (95%), helps flush out toxins and alkalize the body.
• Lemons: Also a great anti-bacterial, anti-viral and a digestive aid.
• Beets: Contains a group of phytonutrients that support detoxification of the liver.
• Broccoli: Full of vitamins while neutralizing and eliminating toxins from the body.
• Garlic: Stimulates the liver to encourage production of detoxification enzymes.
• Asparagus: A heart healthy and anti-inflammatory veggie.
• Kale: Filled with fiber and sulfur that help the kidney run smoothly.
• Oranges: High in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C. Oranges aid in the production of glutathione, a compound that is essential for detoxification in the liver.
• Parsley: Is a natural diuretic that reduces water retention and bloating and cleanses the kidneys of bacteria and germs.
• Artichokes: Help increase bile production and promote healthy digestion.

Try mixing a wide variety of fruits or vegetables in a smoothie for a “fresh start” and let me know if you feel any different. Seriously, it’s a lot easier than following weird detox programs, drinking odd potions or even starving.