Regular cleansing and detoxing of our bodies is essential for optimum health and longevity and there is a plethora of fancy, expensive detoxes available. As an alternative, healthy whole foods can clean out a sluggish liver and digestive system, heal our bodies of debilitating ailments and prevent the chronic “diseases of affluence” including heart disease, diabetes and cancer that plague modern day people.
Coconut: is rich in fatty acids, including lauric and caprylic acids, which have powerful antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties. Coconut contains B-vitamins, copper, calcium, iron, manganese, magnesium and zinc. Coconut may be beneficial for healthy digestion easing heartburn, robust immunity, and healthy liver function. It may lower diabetes risk, decrease joint and muscle inflammation and protect against immune-related diseases and cancer.
Goji berries: are an excellent source of antioxidants. They contain 21 trace minerals, 18 amino acids, B-vitamins, and vitamins A, C and E. Goji berries may improve immunity, mood and libido; protect the eyes, cardiovascular and hepatobiliary systems; assist DNA repair; and decrease inflammation.
Maca: is a nutrient-dense superfood containing all essential amino acids. Maca is rich in B-vitamins, vitamins C and E, copper, iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc. Maca may alleviate stress and depression, increase fertility and libido, improve adrenal function and memory, and prevent anaemia and chronic fatigue.
Reishi mushrooms: contain powerful antioxidants. They are rich in B-vitamins, potassium, niacin, magnesium, selenium, copper and phosphorus. Reishi has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to protect against immune-related diseases such as cancer, arthritis and allergies. They have anti-inflammatory properties and may alleviate physical and mental stress. Reishi may improve digestive disorders and protect against liver dysfunction.
Chlorella: is rich in protein and chlorophyll. It contains all essential amino acids and is high in iron, magne-sium, zinc and fiber as well as folate and vitamins B6 and B12. Chlorella may lower cholesterol, prevent and improve insulin resistance and diabetes, and increase bone mineral density in post-menopausal women. Chlorella may assist detoxification of heavy metals, biotoxins and xenobiotics and enhance immune function. It may improve candida and digestive disorders, assist tissue repair and help alleviate pain associated with arthritis or fibromyalgia.
Aloe vera: contains over 200 phytonutrients, 18 amino acids, 20 minerals and 12 vitamins. It has powerful antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. Aloe vera soothes the digestive system, easing gastrointestinal disorders such as ulcerative colitis. Aloe vera may improve symptoms of candida and parasitic infections and reduce blood sugar levels. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory, relieving arthritic pain and may decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Dandelion greens: powerfully cleanse the liver, soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation. They are rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber. A serve of dandelion greens provides 535% of our daily vitamin K requirements, helping to strengthen bones and repair nerve tissue. They are rich in antioxidants, particularly carotenoids which are essential for healthy skin, eyes and mucus membranes. Dandelion greens contain vitamins C and B6, thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, iron (for producing healthy red blood cells), potassium (for regulating blood pressure and heart rate) and manganese, as well as folate, magnesium, phosphorus and copper.
Beets: are rich in vitamin C, fiber, potassium (for healthy nerves and muscles), manganese (for healthy bones, liver, kidneys and pancreas) and folate (which protects against birth defects). Beets are good sources of B-vitamins, iron, copper and magnesium. Beets may lower blood pressure and protect against heart disease. They may increase stamina and high-intensity exercise tolerance. Betaine in beets may reduce inflammation. Beetroot extract phytonutrients reduced breast, pancreatic and prostate tumor growth in animal studies. Beets support phase 2 liver detoxification, binding released toxins to molecules for elimination from the body.
