Diet therapy is undoubtedly the most appropriate way to detoxify. Nutritionists point out that eating more of the following foods can help with detoxification.
1. Cucumber – Clears heat and promotes metabolism
Modern medicine believes that cucumber contains fiber, which helps promote intestinal peristalsis and speed up excretion. Fresh cucumbers also contain adipic acid, which can inhibit the conversion of carbohydrates into fat. However, cucumbers are considered cooling in nature, so people with weak spleen and stomach, or those who have been ill for a long time, should eat them in moderation. Cucumbers are very suitable for cold salads, such as cucumber with wood ear fungus or garlic-flavored cucumber. People with a weak and cold spleen and stomach can stir-fry cucumbers or make cucumber dumplings.
Sweet and Sour Cucumber Strips
2. Black Fungus – The blood vessel scavenger
A type of plant gum found in black fungus has strong adsorption properties. It can concentrate and adsorb dust and debris remaining in the human digestive system and then expel them, thereby playing a role in detoxifying and cleansing the stomach. At the same time, it is also rich in nutrients such as iron, which can give the skin a healthy, rosy glow and can help prevent iron-deficiency anemia. Black fungus can be stir-fried, served in a cold salad, or used in soups.
Stir-fried Black Fungus with Lily Bulbs
3. Asparagus – Clears heat and prevents dry mouth
Asparagus has a sweet and cold nature, with the effects of clearing heat and promoting urination. It can help alleviate common spring symptoms such as a dry mouth and irritability. Asparagus is rich in water-soluble vitamins, but overcooking can easily cause these vitamins to be lost and also affects the unique crisp texture of asparagus. The suitable cooking methods are to blanch it first and then stir-fry or serve it cold.
Oil-dressed Garlic Scented Asparagus
4. White Radish – Aids digestion and prevents constipation
Radish is pungent in taste and cool in nature, with the effects of clearing heat and promoting fluid production, aiding digestion and resolving stagnation, and promoting the flow of qi to resolve phlegm. Modern medicine believes that radish has a good diuretic effect, and the fiber it contains can also promote bowel movements, which is beneficial for weight loss. If you want to use radish for detoxification, you can eat it raw, by juicing it, or in cold salads and pickles.
Pickled White Radish
5. Kelp – Absorbs fat and reduces bloating
Kelp contains a substance called fucoidan, which can absorb cholesterol from the blood and excrete it, keeping the blood's cholesterol level normal. Kelp is an ideal food for detoxification and beauty. It is commonly eaten in cold salads or in soups, but people with a weak and cold spleen and stomach, as well as pregnant women, should not eat too much of it.
Cold-dressed Tofu Skin and Kelp Threads