Tips To Avoid Food Toxins
We face toxins every day from a variety of sources such as pollution, chemicals, processed foods and toxic cleaning products. Fortunately, the liver, kidneys, and digestive system work hard to keep the body healthy and free of harmful toxins.
Still, it is best to avoid exposure to toxins when possible and fuel your body with healthy foods that support its natural cleansing abilities.
Here, we’ll look at the top toxins to avoid and the best cleansing foods to eat to help you feel your best.
Top Food Toxins to Avoid
Toxins can be found in compounds, ingredients, and certain foods. Here are five toxins to avoid or minimize.
1. Artificial Trans Fats
Artificial trans fats are created when hydrogen is added to certain oils to solidify them. These fats are highly inflammatory and linked to a variety of health issues.
Trans fats were previously found in prepackaged baked goods, processed foods, and margarine. The United States banned artificial trans fats from being used. However, food can be labeled 0 grams of trans fat if it contains under 0.5 grams of this artificial fat. To be safe, avoid products that list “partially hydrogenated oil” in the ingredients list.
2. Bisphenol A (BPA)
The lining inside many canned goods and beverages may contain harmful chemicals such as Bisphenol A (BPA). These toxic chemicals can leach into whatever drink or food is inside and end up in the body.
These chemicals can mimic hormones and cause disruptions in the body. While more human studies are needed, BPA is thought to contribute to a variety of health conditions.
The good news BPA has been mostly phased out, with most cans and plastic now being labeled BPA-free. Unfortunately, replacement compounds may have similar effects.
To help reduce your exposure to BPA and similar toxic compounds, try these steps:
- Avoid bottled water
- Use stainless steel or glass drinkware and dishes rather than plastic
- Opt for foods that are packaged in glass instead of plastic
- Avoid drinking from aluminum cans
- Opt for foods that are sold in glass jars instead of cans
3. Mercury
Fish is one of the healthiest sources of animal protein, often containing beneficial fatty acids, antioxidants, and important minerals.
However, certain species of fish can contain dangerous levels of mercury, a toxin that can cause irreversible damage to nerves and the brain.
Swordfish and king mackerel have been found to contain some of the highest levels of mercury and are best avoided. To still enjoy the benefits of fish without such a high mercury risk, aim to consume species that are lower in mercury.
To limit your mercury exposure, opt for fish that are low in mercury, such as:
- Pollock
- Sardines
- Herring
- Wild-caught salmon
- Catfish
- Anchovies
- Trout
- Tilapia
- Atlantic mackerel
4. Added Sugars
Along with providing zero nutritional value, added sugar has been linked to weight gain and a range of health issues.
Highly processed foods that contain added sugar are also hyper-palatable, giving them addictive qualities. Some researchers even found through animal studies that sugar can release feel-good neurotransmitters such as dopamine.
To lower your consumption of added sugar, aim to:
- Replace your intake of fruit juices and soda
- Opt for naturally flavored water (healthy additions include freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice, sliced up strawberries, cucumber slices, or a handful of frozen berries)
- Limit your intake of processed foods and baked goods
- Pay attention to labels (many marinara sauces contain a surprising amount of added sugar)
5. Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)
When high temperatures are used to smoke or grill meat, burning organic material releases polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Known as PAHs, these highly volatile, toxic pollutants get created at high temperatures and can drip onto the meat you eat.
Red meat appears to be the worst offender, but grilled fish and chicken may also contain PAHs.
While grilled and smoked meats are the main food source of PAHs, a variety of processed foods also contain PAHs. These toxic compounds have been linked to an increased risk of a variety of health conditions.
To reduce PAHs, try the following steps:
- Minimize smoke when grilling
- Remove drippings right away when grilling
- Use alternative methods of cooking, such as braising, boiling, or slow cooking
Tips on How to Flush Toxins Out of Your Body
The right foods and adequate hydration can help support your body’s natural detoxification abilities, de-bloat, and fuel your body with vitamins and minerals. High-fiber foods are especially helpful for supporting healthy digestion and natural cleansing.
Some of the best cleansing foods include:
- Avocados
- Lemons
- Almonds
- Grapefruit
- Pineapple
- Ginger
- White or Green Tea
- Blueberries
- Kale
- Asparagus
- Radishes
- Spinach
- Green Peas
- Celery
- Turmeric
- Onions
- Carrots
- Kale
- Beets
- Asparagus
- Artichoke
- Cabbage
- Garlic
- Apples
How Much Water to Drink to Flush Toxins Out of Your Body
Staying adequately hydrated is key for many important functions in the body, including carrying oxygen to the cells, lubricating the joints, delivering nutrients to the cells, regulating the body temperature, and more.
Drinking enough water helps ensure the kidneys can function as they should and filter out toxins.
While the common recommendation is to drink 8 glasses of water a day, your hydration requirements depend on your age, gender, physical exertion, and various other factors.
Some individuals even report benefits from drinking 1 gallon of water a day. Ultimately, how much water you need depends on your personal preference and lifestyle.
The Best Products to Flush Toxins
While the body is equipped with natural mechanisms to flush toxins, certain products can assist the body’s natural cleansing abilities. Isagenix features several products dedicated to supporting the body’s cleansing process, including:
- IsaFlush — IsaFlush favors gentle cleansing herbs, nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to support the body’s natural cleansing abilities and support gut health. Rather than relying on stimulants or harsh laxatives, IsaFlush helps naturally eliminate toxins and promote regularity with powerful ingredients from mother nature.
- IsaGenesis — IsaGenesis is a unique formula designed with nutrients and enzymes to help support the immune system, cleansing processes, vital organs, and more. IsaGenesis is ideal for adults seeking to promote energy, support healthy aging, and boost vitality.
- Cleanse for Life — Cleanse for Life is a proprietary blend of detoxifying herbs and antioxidants that work synergistically to support the body’s natural detoxification mechanisms. As opposed to traditional cleansing products that use harsh laxatives, Cleanse for Life nourishes the body with vitamins, minerals, and key nutrients.
- ZIJA Core Moringa SmartMix — ZIJA Core Moringa SmartMix is a concentrated formula designed to combat the onslaught of toxins our bodies face every day from processed foods, chemical-laden products, and pollution. Formulated with a proprietary blend of fatty acids, vital proteins, cell-ready nutrients, and antioxidants, this supermix was created to support the body’s natural toxin removal process and overall wellness.
Want More Tips on How to Avoid Food Toxins?
Certain foods and compounds may be harmful to your health. Alternatively, some foods can support the body’s natural detoxifying abilities.
While you don’t need to cut out certain foods completely, it may be best to limit your intake of highly processed foods, charred meats, added sugars, and specific types of fish.
For more tips on health and wellness, follow our blog or contact us for personalized product recommendations. We always love hearing from you!