Munch on these five foods to detox your system…SHARE

• Avocados
  Avocados are great for controlling your cholesterol. “You may be put off by avocados calorific and fat content but, in reality, they’re a great way to add healthy fats, nutrients and fibre to your diet,” explains Dr Emma Derbyshire from the Simply Health Advisory Research Panel (sharppanel.co.uk ). “They’re a good source of oleic acid, which can help to control cholesterol levels. Plus, they contain antioxidants and vitamin E which supports your immune system and helps cleanse your system.”
  Tip
  Avocados are a great way to add texture and flavour to meals. Add to any salad for an instant nutrient boost.
• Lemons
  Lemons can help support your immunity. “The health properties of this humble yellow fruit have been known for centuries, but are often forgotten about,” says Dr Emma. “Lemons are not only rich in vitamin C, but also magnesium, pectin and limonene (which comes from the lemon peel). Although lemons are rather acidic to taste, they are alkaline-forming in the body, which may help to soothe indigestion and heartburn. And, because of their alkaline pH they’re able to cleanse your body.”
  Tip
  
  Drinking hot water with a slice of fresh lemon in the morning is a great way to kick-start your day and invigorate your body.
• Kale
  Kale can help prevent arthritis and heart disease. “Many leafy greens can lack appeal, but kale is certainly worth looking twice at,” says Emma. It’s a great source of antioxidants and carotenoids and is also rich in vitamin K which is needed for your bodily functions, including immunity and bone health. Packed with omega three fatty acids, which have antiinflammatory properties to protect autoimmune diseases.”
  Tip
  Add the dark green veg to your Sunday dinner, salads or stir-fries for an omega three cleansing boost.
• Garlic
  Garlic is excellent for your health. “This intense clove, is thought to have antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties,” explains Emma. “Just one little clove can go a long way in terms of its nutrient content, providing vitamins A, B, C and minerals such as selenium, iodine, potassium, iron, calcium, zinc and magnesium. What’s more, the anti-inflammatory properties help to cleanse your colon, support digestion, absorb food and eliminate waste, leaving your body clean as a whistle.”
  Tip
  Garlic can easily be added to most dishes, or topped onto bread. Or, frozen garlic squares are great if you’re short on time!
• Blueberries
  Blueberries are a nutritional powerhouse. “The tasty little fruit belongs to the cranberry and bilberry family and is loaded with antioxidants, including vitamins C, E, selenium and anthocyanin, which gives them their deep purple colour and helps to combat free radicals in your body – building up your immunity,” says Emma. “There’s also some evidence that blueberries may help to prevent bacteria along the walls of your urinary tract and reduce the risk of infections.”
  Tip
  Keep a regular supply of blueberries in your fridge or freezer, so they can easily be scattered onto cereals.