Detox. Such a fancy word, isn’t it? So what is it? Our body tends to accumulate unwanted toxins and components, in our day-to-day lives, owing to various causes such as pollution, junk food, refined/processed food, etc. In simple words, detox (detoxification) means getting rid of these unwanted guests from our bodies. Who Detoxifies? LIVER.
The liver is a natural detoxifying gift to us that clears out toxins from the body, at regular, self-set intervals. However, not always is sufficient. Our body might require external efforts to detox which has a set of benefits.
How does the body detox work?
The liver is a vital organ of the human body, responsible for multiple simple and complex actions required for the body to function normally. Among these, one prime function is to naturally detox the body. It helps automatically flush out toxins on a day-to-day basis, at self-set intervals. However, at times, natural body detoxification does not suffice and you might need regular, conscious efforts to naturally detox at home. In this article, we will learn just this.
How Can I Detox My Body at Home?
Drink Lots of Water
But first, let me drink some water
should be the motto. There is no detoxifier better than water. With 75% water in our bodies, not only is it essential for survival but is also one of the best ways to naturally detox the body. Toxins occupy a great space in our body and approx. 4-5 liters of water per day helps to achieve great results. Adding lemon wedges, strawberries, mint leaves, cucumber slices, orange segments, etc into the water adds to a great deal of detoxification.
Eat Healthy Foods
The majority of the toxins get accumulated due to unfit and unhealthy food habits. Processed, packaged, fried, refined, oily or junk foods, and alcohol are the most important causes to note. Parallel to posing a risk of blood pressure and blood sugar, excessive salt and sugar intake also build up a lot of toxins that may lead to various health issues in the long run, if not in the immediate effects. Another overlooked cause of toxins is the consumption of unwashed/not completely washed fruits and vegetables which tend to be covered with pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, etc.
Detox
Limit alcohol. Reduce/stop unhealthy foods. Moderate salt and sugar intakes are suggested. Wash your fruits and vegetables. You may also shift to organic fruits and vegetables that help. Eat foods (berries, nuts, cocoa, vegetables, spices, etc) rich in antioxidants (like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, Lycopene, Lutein, etc) and high in prebiotics (tomatoes, onions, bananas, garlic, asparagus, oats, etc).
Good News to Sleep Lovers
An adequate amount of sleep assures the brain’s recovery and supports the natural detoxification system of the body. An adult is recommended an average of 7-9 hours of minimum sleep every night.
If you have issues sleeping peacefully, here are 8 tips for you to try immediately
Exercise, Stay Active
Sweat is a means of toxin elimination. Regular exercising helps in sweating out thus helping your body with a natural detox. Recommended is at least 30-60 mins of working out daily.
“There are great ways to start working out or staying fit. But considering the Covid situation all around the world, if you are unable to hit the gym or take a run outdoors, yoga can be your way; your indoor way!”
Try Fasting
Once in a while, try fasting for a day (maximum 2) – skip (heavy) meals, and go for healthy fruits and veggies which will allow your digestive system to relax for a while and help in rejuvenation.
Note: Depending on your health, body, age, gender, and personal condition, do not push your limits fast.
Green Smoothie
As mentioned above, in addition to maintaining a healthy diet throughout, smoothies (the greener, the better – sorry to disappoint) is a great option to activate your body’s detoxification system, and some foods that you can make smoothies of, are spinach, cucumber, carrot, lettuce, banana, beetroot, apple, strawberries, etc. Healthy smoothies are the best consumed for breakfast or during evening snacks.