Poor diet and nutrition can lead to the rapid accumulation of toxins and harmful substances in the body, such as sodium, bad cholesterol and refined carbs.

That said, your body has a natural detoxification system in place to deal with impurities lingering in blood vessels, tissues and organs. It’s also possible to supercharge this system with a good detox diet.

Done right, a detox diet can help eliminate impurities that often manifest as health complications like indigestion, acne breakouts and fatigue.

Here are 12 nutrient-rich foods that help flush out harmful substances from the body.

Cruciferous vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, kale and Brussels sprouts are excellent sources of fiber and sulfur-rich compounds that promote the excretion of toxins. These vegetables also supercharge the liver, which works to filter the blood.

Lemon

The citric acid in lemons helps prevent oxidative stress due to unstable molecules called free radicals. If left unchecked, free radicals can cause cellular damage in vital organs and trigger premature aging.

Avocado

The antioxidants and omega-3 oils in avocados help protect against liver damage due to the accumulation of substances like alcohol and sodium. In particular, omega-3s help prevent cellular damage caused by d-galactosamine, a toxin linked to liver conditions like hepatitis and liver necrosis.

Green tea

This soothing herbal drink is an excellent source of antioxidants that help stimulate the production of detoxification enzymes. These antioxidants also ward off chronic diseases linked to premature aging, such as osteoporosis, heart disease and dementia.

Apple

Pectin, a substance found in apples and several varieties of berries, can eliminate toxins in the bloodstream, such as mercury and lead. Pectins also help purge the blood of impurities, as well as reduce bad cholesterol.

Garlic

This pungent bulb vegetable is a popular detox food thanks to its bioactive compounds. Together, compounds like allicin, alliin and ajoene work to eliminate toxins and harmful substances that can lead to the development of diseases. These compounds can also inhibit the activation of carcinogens and halt the spread of cancer cells.

Chlorella

Chlorella is a bright green alga that helps fight inflammation in the liver. Often, inflamed liver tissues are caused by an accumulation of toxins in the organ due to poor nutrition. Luckily, the active compounds in chlorella can help alleviate inflamed liver tissues, as well as reduce the amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream.

Turmeric

Curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, is a potent antioxidant that helps ward off various ailments including gastrointestinal issues, lung problems and liver conditions. Curcumin also helps enhance immune functions and boosts skin health.

Beetroot

This dark red root vegetable is chock-full of antioxidants that support liver health. These antioxidants also boost the production of detoxification enzymes.

Blueberries

Like most berries, blueberries contain high amounts of antioxidants that protect against chronic conditions like cancer, lung disease and degenerative brain diseases. Blueberries are also known to regulate blood pressure and boost overall blood circulation.

Cilantro

Plant compounds in cilantro bind to toxic metals in the blood and promote the excretion of these substances. In particular, cilantro decreases lead absorption and helps get rid of lingering traces of mercury in the bloodstream.

Ginger

Ginger is an excellent source of plant compounds called phytochemicals that help boost gut health. These compounds also promote the excretion of wastes and excess water via the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, ginger also contains potent antioxidants that help protect against oxidative stress and the harmful effects of carcinogens.

A good detox diet helps eliminate toxins and impurities. Eat nutrient-rich cleansing foods to keep your natural detoxification system in tip-top shape. Drinking water, exercising and getting enough sleep can also help ward off health conditions linked to harmful substances, such as asthma, liver disease and digestive disorders.

Sources:

FoodRevolution.org

MedicalNewsToday.com