Boost your Body's Defences

Many foods help to cleanse the body and stimulate the elimination of toxins. The following foods support, nourish and help the body to heal naturally. Choose the organic option whenever possible to avoid potential pesticide contamination.

Heal your Body Naturally with these Detoxifying Foods:

• Apples contain high levels of malic and tartaric acid which improve digestion. Their high fibre and pectin content help to remove toxins and promote the growth of healthy bacteria. An excellent source of vitamin C and disease-fighting phytonutrients, apples also contain fructose delivering a steady supply of energy.

• Cruciferous Vegetables include broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts and watercress. These foods contain phytochemicals which help fight cancer and prevent disease by stimulating the body's enzyme defences. They are a good source of vitamins C, E and K, folic acid, fibre and carotenes.

• Lemons Like other citrus fruits, lemons boost digestion and contain a rich source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants help to protect the body against harmful free radicals reducing the risk of various illnesses and cancer. Combining lemon and garlic in a tea or a salad dressing creates a potent immunity booster.

• Onions and Garlic boast antiviral, antibacterial and antibiotic qualities. Garlic has proven useful at cleansing harmful bacteria and viruses from the body. Onions are at their most effective when eaten raw and contain a high level of quercetin, a potent antioxidant. Both contain vitamin C, calcium and selenium, a mineral that improves immune system function.

• Nuts and Seeds A concentrated burst of easily digestible protein, nuts are packed with antioxidant vitamin E, B vitamins, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and essential fatty acids. Seeds are rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts and seeds such as, sunflower, pumpkin, sesame and flax offer some of the best health benefits.