Protecting your body from the onslaught of modern chemicals involves a holistic approach that considers everything from food and cleaning products to your home and daily mode of transport. By being more aware of how to reduce your exposure to synthetic toxins, you can substantially minimise the level and number of chemicals you absorb, reducing their effects on your health and aging process.
It can seem a bit daunting to tackle all of these issues at once and significant life long change often comes with making small changes that become habits. One of the easiest changes you can make is to introduce these 7 foods into your diet on a regular basis. They all have protective effects and are tasty too!
Blueberries
Contain powerful antioxidant pigments that protect your skin from the damage caused by the free radicals found in air pollution. These low fructose berries are versatile and can be used in smoothies, baking and tossed through salads.
Beetroot
Helps improve liver health and increases the elimination of toxins from your body. It is a rich source of iron, folate, Vitamin A and carotenoids, helping fight wrinkles and preventing premature aging. Beetroot is a tasy addition to meals and can be either, roasted, grated, spiralized or steamed. You can also easily add beetroot to a smoothie or your baking.
Sprouts
Rich in phyto-oestrogens, which help block the harmful effects of some oestrogenic environmental pollutants. The Vitamin C in sprouts also promotes skin health through the production of collagen. Fresh sprouts should be eaten raw and can be enjoyed in risottos, sandwhiches, salads and on their own as a side dish.
Goji berries
One of the richest sources of lutein and zeaxanthin, plant pigments that protect cells from the damage caused by the free radicals in pollution. Along with the antioxidants the amino acids will increase your growth hormone levels which will help replenish the youth in aged skin. Best eaten raw to get the most benefits from the nutrients, goji berries can also be eaten dried in trailmix, in a smoothie or soaked in hot water and drunk as tea.
Brazil nuts
One of the richest dietary sources of selenium. Selenium recycles the antioxidant vitamins C and E within the body, which prevents damage to the skin. Being a good source of Zinc, Brazil nuts can naturally reduce inflammation of the skin and help build collagen. Brazil nuts are a great addition to any meal or eaten as a snack. They can be eaten whole, or chopped into pieces and added to baking or used as a topper for smoothie bowls or salads.
Broccoli
Contains several anti-cancer compounds and also helps support the elimination of toxic chemicals from the body. It also benefits our skin in many ways due to the presence of fibre, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants such as Vitamin C and E. Broccoli can be eaten raw or cooked by way of steaming, blanching, sauteing or roasting.
Turmeric
The bright yellow root has potent anti-cancer properties and protects your skin from the damage caused by free radicals and environmental pollutants. It is effective in the treatment of acne due to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties that fight breakouts. Turmeric can be added to curries, dressings, rice dishes, soups, dips or eaten raw in smoothies.
This recipe for a Peachy Turmeric Smoothie is a delicious way to have more turmeric.