5 Naturally Detoxifying Nutrients (And Where to Find Them)
Stay healthy by consuming more foods that contain these 5 naturally detoxifying nutrients…
If you read the news or pay attention to health blogs, it seems like just about everything is toxic these days. There are toxins in our air, water, food, the products we use on our bodies, even the furniture in our homes. Obviously, it is next to impossible to avoid all of these toxins in our daily lives, which is why “detoxing” has become such a big thing in recent years.
The good news is, it is perfectly possible to reduce your exposure to toxins (by choosing organic foods, natural products, etc.), and you can also support your body’s natural detoxification processes to help maintain good health and reduce the health risks of toxic exposure (cancer, thyroid and reproductive issues, etc.).
In fact, it is actually quite simple to do so – and it doesn’t require any crazy diets, special “potions,” or choking down any weird herbal concoctions. Instead, all you need to do is…eat more fruits and vegetables!
That’s right, and you probably already know that you should, but did you know that one of the reasons why is that colorful fruits and veggies help support your body’s detoxification function? Specifically, fruits and vegetables contain compounds called phytonutrients, and some of these naturally detoxifying nutrients are especially helpful with the detoxification process.
Here are 5 naturally detoxifying phytonutrients you should be consuming on a regular basis – and where to find them:
- Flavonoids: These compounds are found in a spectrum of different foods, including cilantro, parsley, onions, apples, oranges, and blueberries. In terms of detoxing power, these antioxidants bind to heavy metals in the body, and aid in their removal from the body through urine. They also fight harmful inflammation in the body caused by toxic overload…
- Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG): This phytonutrient has a list of detox benefits almost as long as its name! EGCG triggers increased production of certain genes and enzymes responsible for POP detoxification, helping the body’s natural systems to clear the body of these dangerous toxins more efficiently. The compound is also a powerful antioxidant and boasts anti-inflammatory activities.The richest source of EGCG is green tea…
- Quercetin: Quercetin is found in many sources, including citrus fruits, apples, onions, parsley, nuts, tea, and dark berries like blueberries, blackberries, and bilberries. Similar to the other phytonutrients on this list, it is a powerful anti-inflammatory compound and antioxidant that binds to heavy metals to facilitate their removal from the body. Like EGCG, it also boosts the enzymes responsible for POP detoxification…
- Curcumin: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is one of the most powerful spices for your health. It has been called a health superstar, thanks to over 50 healing actions. Looking specifically at detoxing functions, curcumin is an antioxidant that binds to heavy metals in the body, fights inflammation from toxins, and increases the production of enzymes responsible for POP detoxification. It has also been shown to have cancer preventative activities in human studies. Turmeric can be incorporated into your meals in a myriad of ways… (Check out this post for some great ideas: http://holistichealthwire.com/40-tasty-ways-to-use-turmeric/)
- Organosulfur compounds: Foods containing organosulfur compounds (or, more simply, sulfur) are generally marked by a pungent aroma and slightly bitter taste. Onion, garlic, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips, and bok choy are all rich sources of organosulfur compounds. These antioxidant-rich phytonutrients reduce inflammation, bind to and aid in the excretion of heavy metals, and boost the production of POP-detoxifying enzymes. Like curcumin, they also defend the body against cancer-causing agents. Uniquely, they also protect the liver and reproductive system from toxic invaders…
Read More at FoodRevolution.org…
