Do you need a detox?

Does anyone really need a detox? 😳

In general, the standard American diet (sometimes referred to as the S.A.D. diet 😔) is made up of processed foods that are readily available and widely accepted as the cultural norm — in large portions to boot. Additives, alcoholic beverages, and preservatives give the liver quite a task, which leads people to consider a “detox.”  

Often a detox is attempted with tea, a supplement, or with a juice cleanse. These may not be effective, however, because natural detoxification of the liver requires the basics of a healthy diet and lifestyle to be in place. In addition, the restriction of calories and protein often seen in various fad-detox attempts can lead to fatigue, a compromised immune system, constipation, and even gallstones if the restriction is ongoing.

Just like you would expect your car to be more efficient when you give it proper fuel and take good care of its systems, your liver’s efficiency depends on adequate high-quality protein, fiber, fluid, and specific nutrients to do its job of detoxification.

Your liver is actually fabulous at detoxifying your body, but here’s more about how you can help it to be more efficient:

• Phytochemicals and flavonoids naturally found in fruits and vegetables help induce and regulate various phases of the detox process.
• Glutathione is the body’s master detoxifying enzyme and it cannot be maintained without adequate protein in your diet. (Most detox plans do not include protein.)
• Plant-based foods provide fiber that binds to the toxins in the intestine. 
• Adequate amounts of fiber and water intake are required to support regular elimination which is necessary to remove the toxins via waste.
• Certain foods have been shown to aid in detoxification:
  • Apples
  • Artichokes
  • Berries
  • Brown rice
  • Bananas
  • Garlic
  • Onion
  • Leeks
  • Turmeric/curcumin
  • Cilantro
  • Pomegranate
  • Watercress
  • Green tea
  • Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower
  • Naturally fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi

In addition to prioritizing the list above, you can make it easier on your liver by reducing alcohol consumption, minimizing pesticide exposure by choosing organic foods when it comes to the most susceptible plants (the “Dirty Dozen”), working up a sweat/exercising regularly, and limiting your contact with external toxins.

Bottom line:

(This is so spicy, y’all! Ha!) 

Prioritize plant-foods and water, and stay away from crinkly packages.

(Shocking news, right?)

1. Aim for 7-10 grams of fiber from plant-foods at each of your 3 meals daily, with enough water to help the fiber accomplish its task of regular elimination (4 tall bottles/glasses daily).
2. Try to include at least one of the listed foods/beverages daily, and limit alcohol to 1-2 drinks, 1-2 days of the week so that your liver is not regularly occupied with detoxifying alcohol and can carry out its necessary functions.
3. Steer away from processed foods, chemicals, additives and preservatives most of the time.

That’s it! I know, I know, saying you’re on a “fluid and fiber diet” is not nearly as sexy as saying you’re on a detox. I promise I won’t write a book with that title. I realize it wouldn’t be sexy (but if you do it, you sure will be!).