What is detox, really? Basically, it means cleaning the blood and body of impurities, by removing toxins in the liver, kidneys, lungs, and skin. Detoxifying your body can help protect you from diseases, boost your health, and nourish your body from the inside out. However, many are wary to try it, as due to popular culture, food deprivation comes to mind when it comes to detoxing.

Contrary to popular belief, this is not always the case. While there are detox methods which include fasting and liquid diets, there are also many other forms of detoxification. When done properly, detox can alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, migraine, digestive problems, and even promote better sleep and reduce stress. Here are just a few of the many ways you can incorporate and increase detoxification in your life.

1. Sweat

When you exercise, you not only shed fat, you also rid your body of built-up toxins. Your body is cleansed as the toxins are removed through perspiration. Furthermore, your digestive system and blood circulation gets a boost from exercise, adding to the detox. Just another reason to hit the gym already! Besides working out, you can also detox through sweating in a sauna.

2. Fibre

With the adequate amount of fibre in your diet, your digestive tract is kept functioning properly, eliminating excessive waste, toxins, and whatever else that needs to be purged. It can also decrease your chance of colon cancer. Some good sources of fibre are fresh fruit, vegetables, legumes, beans, avocados, and oatmeal.

3. Breathing

The air you inhale is also a form of detox! Deep breathing practices such as those learned in yoga boosts the flow of healthy oxygen into your lungs, which is one of the most important nutrients. Also, avoid excessive exposure to environmental toxins such as second-hand smoke and pollution to keep your body feeling healthy and clean.

4. Superfoods

Certain foods pack an antioxidant punch, and including more of these in your diet can help your body stay clean. While many of these are expensive in Malaysia, especially in organic form, it can be worth the price to keep your diet healthy. Some popular superfoods are salmon, tuna, avocado, almonds, kale, sweet potatoes, apples, spinach, blueberries, and eggplant.

5. Dry Skin Brushing

Protect your body’s largest organ with this easy and quick form of skin detox, as toxin elimination is one of the skin’s main functions. Simply use a dry bristle brush, loofah, pumice stone, or even a washcloth, and brush in a slow and circular motion starting from your feet, then upwards to your legs, abdomen, and then back down your arms and back. Do this in the morning before a shower for the best effect, and rehydrate by drinking lots of water afterward.

Read This: Rest and Relaxation in Malaysia

Source: The Expat magazine June 2015