It's that time of year again; everyone's doing a detox or cleanse. (Yep, me too!) It's time to lighten the load on our bodies and clear things out.
So what is a detox or cleanse?
It's a way of eating (and living!) cleanly, to minimize the amount of chemicals and pollutants in our systems, while emphasizing high-nutrient foods that help draw out and eliminate toxins.
The lighter dietary load allows our body to expel accumulated toxins (which are stored in our fat cells? eek!) and reduce the burden on our organs and detoxifying functions (like the skin and liver).
And what should you include in your diet while you're on a detox?
Here are 5 fabulous foods that will help your body detoxify and cleanse.
**1. Parsley and coriander**
These bind heavy metals like mercury so they can be extracted from your body. They are also alkalising and full of chlorophyll. Add to salads, stir fries, and green smoothies. They can be eaten cooked or raw.
**2. Water**
OK, not technically a food but crucial when you're cleansing. And the rest of the time! Many people are partially dehydrated all the time which stresses your system and prevents efficient detoxification. Drink lots of water; 2 to 3 liters per day.
Try drinking a liter (about 4 cups) of water in the morning, then sip the remaining 1-2 liters throughout the day. Avoid drinking at mealtimes, so you don't dilute your digestive juices.