The world is full of environmental toxins and agents of illness that can build up over time and overwhelm our defenses. The body’s ability to detoxify is essential in preventing toxic overload and subsequent disease. By supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes, you can reduce the impact of toxins and other harmful substances.
Below are some great ingredients to add to a detoxifying smoothie that will help support your body’s detox pathways.
Coconut Water
Coconut water is a simple and easy liquid to add to any smoothie as it is 94% water and is rich in electrolytes that keep you hydrated, which is essential for the detoxification process. Additionally, coconut water is rich in antioxidants that help protect against free radical damage. Free radicals are released during the liver’s detoxification process and if detoxification pathways are not functioning optimally, free radicals can build up, causing the body to enter an oxidative state. Oxidative stress can cause damage to cells and increase the risk for certain diseases. However, one study found that rats in oxidative stress with liver damage showed noticeable improvement when treated with coconut water compared to rats that received no treatment.
Spinach
Although spinach is well known for being low in calories, it is packed with nutrients. In fact, just three cups of spinach provides 300% of your daily need for vitamin K, 160% of your daily goal for vitamin A, and about 40% for vitamin B and C. Spinach is also rich in minerals such as iron, magnesium, potassium, and calcium, all of which help support the health of blood vessels, muscles, and many other aspects of wellness. In regards to detoxification, spinach contains powerful antioxidants and is high in fiber. This combination allows the body to combat inflammation from any toxins while effectively flushing them out of its system.
Apples
Apples contain many beneficial vitamins and minerals such as potassium, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, manganese, and copper. Apples also contain flavonoids such as Phlorizidin that help stimulate bile production, which helps the liver eliminate toxins through the bile. Additionally, apples are a good source of the soluble fiber pectin, which eliminates heavy metals and food additives.
Lemon Juice
Lemons have become a staple for any detox recipe and for good reason. Lemons help stimulate the release of enzymes that convert toxins into a water-soluble form, making them easy for the body to eliminate. Moreover, as an alkaline-forming food, lemons help balance out the acidity and inflammation of other foods you may consume.
Pineapple
Pineapple is a sweet and tasty addition to any smoothie and it has numerous health benefits. Pineapple is rich in antioxidants, magnesium, thiamin, copper, folate, and many other nutrients that support overall health. Pineapple also contains the digestive enzyme bromelain that aids in breaking down protein, fats, and reducing inflammation.
Cayenne Pepper
Adding just a dash of cayenne pepper to a smoothie can stimulate your body’s circulation and help reduce acidity and inflammation. This is because cayenne pepper helps the capillaries open and improves the body’s blood sugar regulation while also supporting bacteria in the gut microbiome that eliminate toxins.
Diet is one of the best ways to support your body’s detoxification process. If you are interested in taking further steps to support your detoxification pathways through supplementation, consider HoltraCeuticals’ high-quality, doctor-formulated supplements with natural ingredients.
*Always speak with your doctor before beginning supplementation
