The Detox Grocery List

This particular grocery list needs an important preface because our bodies are pretty damn good at detoxing themselves.

In fact, that's what they're meant to do. The liver breaks down and balances toxins (AKA a foreign substance the body does not recognize, like air pollutants, toxic skincare, or yes, McDonalds french fries) into forms that are easier for the body, while the colon (and the rest of the digestive system) flush out substances like excess estrogen, heavy metals, and toxic particles. Even though your body is programmed to detox, it doesn't mean you should eat all the processed food and not care about toxic cleaning products, air pollution, or skincare (BTW, those things really mess with your gut). But it does mean you don't have to juice cleanse once a month in order to "detox," or panic over one less healthy meal or a night of over-drinking.

Instead, just consistently opt for foods that support your body's natural detox functions (but don't do the detoxing themselves, FYI). Add these foods to your grocery list consistently for detoxifying support, or as an added boost when you know your liver and colon are doing a lot of extra work (like after the holidays):

• Garlic: has antibacterial, antiviral, and antibiotic properties, while also containing allicin which helps to cleanse the liver

• Lemon juice: a staple in every "detox diet" because of the rich levels of vitamin C to fight free-radical damage, and helps restore the body's pH levels

• Asparagus: helps the kidney and bladder detox themselves, and contains glutathione, which is an antioxidant that promotes overall detoxification

• Dark leafy greens: the chlorophyll in greens like wheatgrass or kale supports the removal of impurities and toxins

• Artichokes: protect your liver from damage and also promotes liver tissue growth. The high fiber content also helps support digestion and flush toxins

• Beets: high in antioxidants, including betaine (aids in liver detoxification) and pectin (a fiber that clears toxins from the liver)

• Turmeric: curcumin (the active component) facilitates detoxification and fights free-radical damage in the body

• Cabbage: contains a chemical called sulforaphane, which helps the body fight against toxins, as well as glutathione, which is an antioxidant that improves the detoxifying effect of the liver

• Dandelion root: helps the liver detoxify, as well as supports digestion

• Prebiotic fiber: binds to toxins as its going through the digestive tract to flush out excess particles (try inulin powder, bananas, or onions)

• Cilantro: enhances excretion of certain toxins like heavy metals

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