Naturally Detoxifying Foods

We ran across a Facebook post earlier today, comparing detoxification/cleanse diets. And it got us to thinking about detox. We know that many of our customers love their Sunlighten infrared saunas for the detoxification properties of infrared heat. But what else can you do to rid your body of the many environmental toxins it absorbs daily?

Rather than going on a fad diet requiring you to drink lemonade with maple syrup and cayenne pepper, why not just incorporate some of nature’s detoxifying foods into your daily lifestyle and eating habits?

We’ve compiled a list of some of the easiest ways to detox your body through diet.


Fiber in beets help increase the production of antioxidant enzymes in the liver, which help the liver and gallbladder eliminate bile and other toxic substances from the body. They are full of vitamins B3, B6, C and beta-carotene. And are a valuable source of iron, magnesium, zinc and calcium – all of which are helpful in detoxification.

Dark Leafy Greens

Leafy greens increase chlorophyll levels in the digestive tract, helping the body rid itself of environmental toxins like herbicides.


Grains, legumes, and other seeds that have sprouted are packed with enzymes which aid digestion.

Sea Vegetables (a.k.a. seaweed)

Seaweed contains powerful antioxidants that help to alkalize the blood and strengthen the digestive tract. The algin in seaweeds absorb toxins from the digestive tract. Lots and lots of minerals too!

Broccoli Sprouts

Broccoli contains important phytochemicals that are released, then break down into sulphorophanes, indole-3-carbinol and D-glucarate, which all have a specific effect on detoxification. Broccoli sprouts can actually provide more benefit than regular broccoli as they contain 20 times more sulfurophane.


Ground flaxseeds are a great source of fiber, which helps bind and flush toxins from the intestinal tract. They also contain omega 3 oils, which are great for brain health.


Garlic packs more than an aromatic punch. It is antiviral, antiseptic and antibiotic. Its sulphuric compounds are essential detoxifiers.


Artichokes are loaded with cynarin, which helps increase bile production, prevents indigestion, and stimulates healthy digestion. They have been shown to increase bile production and protect the liver. They also have a mild diuretic effect on the kidneys, ensuring proper removal of toxins once the liver breaks them down.


Apples are full of fiber, vitamins, minerals and many beneficial phytochemicals such as D-Glucarate, flavonoids and terpenoids. All of these substances are used in the detox process. Stick with organic apples though as the pesticides on non-organic apples are problematic.

Lemon Water

Lemons are a great source of vitamin C, which is known to help the body detox and burn fat. Many health care professionals suggest drinking water with lemon every morning as a way to alkalize the body and help with digestion.

Green Tea

Green tea is high in catechins, which increases liver activity and increases the production of detoxification enzymes.

Which of these are already in your regular diet? Which do you think you could easily incorporate for better health?

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