7 Ways Towards Detoxification

Lemons

Rich in vitamin C, lemons can give a powerful boost to your immune system. Drinking lemon juice in the morning is believed to cleanse the liver. Lemons are rich in vitamin B6, potassium, and folic acid. Potassium in lemons can help regulate your blood pressure and can offset potassium loss from the use of blood pressure medication. The pith of this fruit (i.e. the white part beneath the yellow peel) contains phytochemicals limonin and limonene, which are found to have cancer-fighting properties. Lemons have also been shown to be helpful in preventing stomach cancer. The lemon pith and peels also contain high levels of bioflavonoids that help strengthen capillaries. As such, lemon peels are sometimes recommended for those with collapsed veins (e.g. varicose veins or spider veins). As lemon peels are high in oxalates, lemon peels and zest should be avoided by those suffering from gout or kidney stones.

Burdock Root

Burdock root contains phytochemicals, known as polyacetylenes, which have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic practitioners often use burdock to deal with fever and congestion brought about by flu. According to Ayurvedics, burdock root is an excellent blood cleanser and detoxifier. This is probably because burdock helps break up fatty deposits in the blood stream, protecting one against arteriosclerosis. This herb-food also helps remove toxins from the blood, liver, kidneys, gallbladder and lymphatic system. In fact, some studies have found that animals who consumed burdock were protected from the effects of poisonous chemicals fed to them.

Burdock Root

Chickpeas

You might have seen the chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans) that are used to make the Middle Eastern dip known as hummus. But do you know that these little beans are actually very nutritious? Chickpeas are rich in protein, fiber, folic acid and manganese.They can help you in dealing with unhealthy cholesterol, as well as in improving your blood sugar levels. More uniquely, a compound known as molybdenum which is found in chickpeas can help detoxify your body of sulfites, which are commonly used in preserving meats (eg. bacon, luncheon meats) and wine. So if you are feasting on lots of preserved meats this festive season, accompany them with lots of chickpeas to help rid your body of the unhealthy sulfites.