Cleansing foods

Garlic

Herbalists and folk healers have used garlic for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians used it for strength building, the Greeks used it as a laxative, and the chinese favoured it for lowering blood pressure. Today its natural antibacterial properties are harnessed to help fight off colds and flu

Wonder water

Make sure to lower the chemical levels in your drinking water by allowing the tap to run for a short while before filling up your glass. This will allow for lead that has leached from the pipes into the water to be flushed out. It is also a good idea to invest in a water filter

Lemon zinger

Start the day with a hot cup of water, with freshly squeezed lemon juice and a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon.

Why? Lemons decongest the liver and cleanse the blood by accelerating the digestion of fats and proteins and boosting the absorption of minerals in the body.

Cayenne pepper increases sweating which is the body's natural way of eliminating toxins and cinnamon regulates blood sugar levels

Seaweed

Seaweeds are an excellent source of iodine - important for regulating metabolism, but watch out for high salt content

Melons

There are many varieties of melon and although they are mostly water, they are very nutritrious. They contain many vitamins, potassium and pectin -- a type of soluable fibre that may help keep blood cholesterol in check

Sprouts are the way forward

Alfalfa, mustard and cress sprouts are packed with nutrients and are also high in fibres that help flush toxins out of the body.

Oats

Oats are an excellent source of soluble fibre, iron, manganese, zinc, vitamin E, thiamin and many other vitamins and minerals. They have a good effect on cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and gastrointestinal health

Watercress

These versatile, peppery little green leaves have a diuretic effect that helps move things through your system. Add it to salads, soups, and sandwiches and enjoy!