Detoxifying fruits for you this Christmas

The lifestyles we lead today with high levels of pollution make the body susceptible to toxins. Some toxins are however formed within the body during the numerous metabolic functions.
According to Lilian Nyanzi, a nutritionist at Neulife Medical Centre, Bweyogerere, this is the reason many people are likely to get toxins in their bodies from binge eating this festive season. It is therefore important that while you celebrate this Christmas, choose your food wisely to include less sweet and deep fried foods. These fruits help to detoxify once you make them part of your meals.

Pineapple: Pineapples are best if eaten fresh and they are not only sweet and delicious, but also aid in flushing out toxins from your body. It also contains a powerful digestive enzyme that aids in the breaking down of proteins and fats.
Nyanzi says, “Pineapples contain dietary fibre which is essential for keeping intestines healthy and preventing conditions such as constipation, diarrhoea, irritable bowel syndrome. The fibre contained in mulberries promotes digestive health, treat constipation.”

Lemon: Lemons or citrus fruits are recommendable for detox. They are a great source of vitamin C to the body and help stimulate the digestive system to relieve constipation. Note, however, that lemons if taken often can erode tooth enamel, so rinse your mouth after eating them.
She says, “Oranges are also a great source of folate that help prevent brain and spinal cord defects, also known as neural tube defects. Oranges are also rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage. It also helps your body absorb iron.”
Lemon is an effective source for cleansing, and also helps with gastric problems. They are most effective in detoxification when taken with warm water with no sugar. Remember that vitamin C gets destroyed quickly once exposed to air. Eat or make juice from an orange quickly once you have cut it up.

Watermelon: The watermelon is not only refreshing when it is ripe but is one of the fruits that will help you keep hydrated through the festive season. Any time you feel thirsty, the water melon can help you quench the thirst.
When eaten continuously, it also strengthens the immune system to fight infections and diseases. Also remember that it is healthy to eat the white pulp after the red rind and the seeds too.

Apples: Nyanzi says, “Apples contain phytochemical and pectin which helps in detox. It flushes out food additives and metals in our body.”
“They are also rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre which aids in digestion. Apples are best eaten raw and if consumed with the skin are a good source of vitamin C and fibre.”