10 Easy Ways To Detox Your Body Today

When your diet or environment has been less than ideal, you can turn to any or all of the natural detox methods below for the ultimate self-care. No gimmicks here, just science-backed ways to support detoxification, so you can "detox" your body naturally.

Aim to drink at least half your body weight in ounces in clear fluids or enough that your urine is very pale in color.

Other dark leafy greens like dandelion greens, and beets are also detox-supporting superstars. Choosing organic produce will reduce your exposure to pesticides and other chemicals that further increase your toxic burden.

Turmeric is a well-known anti-inflammatory root that also helps to improve circulation, relieve pain, reduce cancer risk and support liver detox by increasing glutathione levels4. Make sure to stock up on sulfur-rich garlic, anti-viral ginger, antioxidant-rich herbs like thyme, rosemary and more. 

Green tea’s polyphenols, GTE and EGCG, have been shown to induce detox pathways in the liver as well as protect the liver from damage when it is exposed to mycotoxins and aflatoxins during the detoxification process5. They also both appear to inhibit certain enzymes, CYP2E16, that when overactive can lead to increased oxidative stress and higher cancer risk. Other research has shown tea to have a wide range of health benefits.

Similar to spirulina, chlorella can be found as a powder you can stir into smoothies or baked goods.

Fiber is essential to keep food material moving properly through the digestive tract. A lack of fiber contributes to constipation and stool sitting in the colon for too long, enabling toxins to be reabsorbed into the body. Fiber also feeds gut bacteria, helping it thrive, which influences toxicity8.  Berries, chia seeds, almonds, beans, Jerusalem artichokes, barley and peas are excellent examples of high fiber foods.

Due to all of the significant benefits these stress-reducing strategies can provide, incorporating more than one, or all of them if you can, on a regular basis would be ideal.

Most experts recommend aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep a night. 

Fructose which is often obtained in the diet from fructose-sweetened beverages like soda increases the stress hormone cortisol and body fat accumulation11. Gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley, has been shown to increase inflammation in the gut lining, weakening the intestinal barrier in those who are sensitive. This may contribute to toxins leaking out of the intestines and into the bloodstream, which reduces the ability for those toxins to be eliminated via stool. By avoiding these foods you can relieve some of the stress on the detoxification system.

Plastics, heavy metals, personal care products and household cleaners all contribute to our toxic load. Many of these chemicals are known as obesogens and endocrine disruptors, interfering with normal metabolism and weight management. Reducing exposure to these types of toxins puts less stress on our detoxification pathways so our systems are not overwhelmed. 

However, in rare cases, such as those exposed to high levels of heavy metals or poisons, more comprehensive or even emergent treatment by a physician may be necessary. It is also possible to have genetic predispositions on the genes that code for detoxification, which can make the process less efficient and increases your need to be vigilant in avoiding as many contaminants as possible. In this case, working with a knowledgeable functional medicine practitioner or other healthcare provider help you understand how to improve your overall functioning.