Artichokes
Artichokes contain antioxidant plant compounds called
caffeoylquinic acids, which are used to treat hepatic (liver) disorders because
they stimulate bile flow. Bile helps the body to digest fats, and efficient
bile flow clears the system of potentially inflammatory substances contained in
fatty foods.
Avocado
Avocado provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids and
glutathione, a compound that blocks the absorption of certain fats by the
intestines that cause oxidative damage AND is essential for liver pathway
cleansing.
Beets
Beets are among the few edible plants that contain betalains,
plant pigments that give some beets their deep red color and have powerful
anti-inflammatory and fungicidal properties. Betalains promote cell structure,
repair and regeneration, especially in the liver—the body's primary detox
center.
Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the cruciferous vegetables, which are named for
their cross-shaped flowers and known for powerful antioxidant properties.
Science has shown that a diet rich in cruciferous veggies reduces the risk of
certain cancers. Other cruciferous vegetables include cabbage, cauliflower,
Brussels sprouts and kale.
Collard Greens
Collard greens increase bile acid binding, which makes it
easier for bile to bind to large lipid molecules and pull them apart. Leftover
bile acids are then excreted from the GI tract normally, taking leftover lipid
molecules with them. Bile acid binding therefore helps to keep LDL
"bad" cholesterol in check.
Dandelion Root
Dandelion root acts as a diuretic by increasing urine production.
Dill
Dill is rich in vitamins and anti-inflammatory chemicals. Dill
contains chemicals that help with the activation of glutathione, a liver
antioxidant that attaches to free radical molecules and disarms them.
Fennel
Fennel, like dill, has tons of vitamins and anti-inflammatory
chemicals. Fennel is rich in Vitamin C, which has antimicrobial and antioxidant
properties. Fennel is also high in fiber but low in calories—an ideal cleanse
food.
Green Tea
Green tea is richer in antioxidants than white, black, and oolong
teas, even though they all come from the same plant. The caffeine in green tea
also gives this energizing drink a diuretic effect, which helps to alleviate
bloating by counteracting water retention.
Lemon, like all
citrus fruits, is rich in antioxidant Vitamin C. Milk
Thistle
Milk thistle is one of the frequently researched plants
in association with promoting liver detoxification. While more scientific
inquiry is needed for firm recommendations, Milk thistle contains a mixture of
polyphenolic compounds (plant protectors) that assist liver cells in removing
toxins from healthy blood cells.
Kale
Fresh, green veggies, like kale, are a good source
of glutathione-essential for detox of liver pathway. Fresh vegetables can also
provide excellent sources of insoluble fiber, which gets the gut moving. Crisp,
crunchy raw veggies are highest in this sort of fiber.
Onion and Garlic
Onion and garlic are both members of the allium family of
vegetables, which provide pungent flavors to foods. These plants contain
flavonoids that stimulate the production of glutathione, one of the liver's
strongest antioxidants. As a result, onion and garlic have powerful
anti-bacterial and immune-boosting properties.
Wheat Grass
Wheat grass is a vitamin and mineral-rich grass commonly
served in powder or juice form. While scientific evidence to support health
claims about wheatgrass is lacking, products containing wheatgrass may add some
yummy, low-calorie variety to your selection of cleanse foods and beverages.
Yogurt
Yogurt that contains probiotics – make sure to read the yogurt
label—supplies healthy bacteria that fortify the GI tract's natural flora,
aiding digestion and boosting the body's natural immune responses.
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