by Dr. Mary Peric ND
Much can be learned about foods that support daily detoxification. By knowing about the phases of detoxification in the liver, we can appreciate the importance of certain foods that enhance (or inhibit) these phases. It is important to know that phase I of liver detoxification often makes the parent substance a slightly more ‘toxic’ intermediate. Phase II then does a great job of converting this ‘toxic’ intermediate into a non-toxic water soluble product to be eliminated via the kidneys and the bowels. So it is important to have regular bowel movements, good hydration and urination capabilities and an optimal balance between phase I and phase II to safely promote detoxification and elimination on a day-to-day basis.
Here are my favourite three superstars for daily detox!
- Brassica family plants! Our superstars are broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, kohlrabi, collard greens, mustard greens and brussels sprouts! The choice is yours! These veggies help the liver in BOTH phase I and phase II for balanced elimination.
- Herbs! Cilantro and parsley (for those who think cilantro tastes ‘soapy’). These two herbs are also great chelators! That means, they can bind and eliminate heavy metals. Cilantro & parsley are great chelators of mercury (think mercury in tuna fish)!
- Lemons. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade (without the sugar, of course). Lemons are a rich source of antioxidants and bioflavonoids which are required to stimulate the phases of liver detoxification. A glass of water with fresh lemon juice upon rising is a great way to get that liver moving in the morning! Tip: add some ginger for extra flavour!
I encourage you to incorporate all of these foods daily. Visit our website for inspirational recipes. Since there is much more where this came from, I invite you to join us April 18th for our detox workshop – click here!
