Safe Natural Ways to Detox Your Digestive System

Detoxes can benefit your body, but they can also be very dangerous if used irresponsibly. It's vital for your health that you are careful and sensible when starting any detox program. Always go for food-based detoxes that don't require drastic measures, such as living only on liquids, and don't detox for more than 10 days, as your body needs a greater range of nutrients than you will get on a detox program.

A fresh detox salad in a wooden bowl. (Image: Olha_Afanasieva/iStock/Getty Images)

Fibrous Fruit and Vegetables

Fibrous fruits and vegetables are among the most effective foods when it comes to detoxing your body. Not only does the fiber "clean out" your digestive system, but it can also really slow down your appetite. This means that you can take a break from high-calorie foods and give your digestive system time to recover and return to optimal function. The top detoxing vegetables are cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, kale, asparagus, bok choy, watercress, radish, cauliflower and artichoke. Avocado, tomato, watermelon, guava and berries are among the best fruits.

Herbs and Spices

Steep herbs in water to make teas, and include spices in your cooking to improve the effects of your detox. Fennel can reduce bloating, gas and heartburn, while ginger is an effective anti-inflammatory. Ginseng boosts immunity and helps the body overcome stress, mint will soothe your digestive system and nutmeg will help return you to regular bowel activity. Turmeric will help cleanse your liver and boost your immunity.

Fermented Foods

Fermented foods are gaining in recognition for their benefit to gut health, immunity and the digestive process. Including fermented foods in your detox will help ensure a positive balance of healthy gut flora and an elimination of damaging bacteria. It will improve the uptake of nutrients from your other detox foods, and improve your digestion of foods that your system might otherwise struggle with, including high-fiber foods. Good fermented options include yogurt, kefir and kombucha, which are available in most organic or health food stores. Kimchi, sauerkraut, pickled vegetables and miso are also easy fermented choices.

Plenty of Water

It's important to drink plenty of water when you're detoxing. In fact, you can use water to detoxify your body at any time -- the more hydrated you are, the less toxins will stay circulating in your body. Water eliminates metabolic waste, filters environmental toxins from your bloodstream and reduces hunger. It improves digestion, improves bowel function, increases your immunity and improves your metabolism. Aim to drink at least eight large glasses of water a day or even more if you feel the need for it. To really flush out your system as effectively as possible while you are detoxing, water and herbal tea should be the only liquids you drink.