Top tips for a healthy detox

Consume foods in as close to their natural state as you can, preferably organic to reduce potential intake of residues from toxic pesticides.

Look after your liver

The liver is the organ which acts as a filter, trapping and processing any ingested toxins. Liver-friendly foods include dark green leafy vegetables, seeds, nuts and eggs. Supplements can be beneficial to boost and support liver function. A herb called Silybum Marianum (Milk Thistle) has been clinically proven to increase liver detoxification pathways and protect the health of the liver.

Sleep well

Getting enough sleep is also key to good health and healing. When you are at rest, your body is doing its regeneration and repair work. Make sure you are getting at least eight hours’ sleep a night.

Exercise

Don’t forget that exercise is important to boost metabolism and release mood lifting endorphins. Ideally you should try to stick to a detox plan for at least two weeks to discover what a difference it makes to you, but this information is a guideline only. See a qualified naturopathic practitioner if you want a plan designed.

Drink water

Consume at least two litres of filtered water throughout the day. Avoid caffeine. Rather than coffee, experiment with herbal teas. Nettle and dandelion are particularly good for detoxing. Rooibos is full of antioxidants.

A sample menu includes:

Breakfast

Porridge made from whole oats soaked in water overnight topped with cinnamon, berries, chia seeds and coconut milk.

Morning snack

Oatcakes spread with hummus

Lunch

Mixed leaf salad containing chopped fresh vegetables, a hard-boiled free range egg and some lemon juice.

Afternoon snack

A handful of mixed unsalted, raw nuts and seeds and a piece of fruit.

Dinner

Lentil and vegetable soup. This diet avoids foods which the body finds difficult to digest, such as meats and processed grains. Eating regularly is important to balance blood sugar levels (preventing energy fluctuations) and to avoid cravings for carbohydrates and sweet things.