Simple and effective ways to assist your body's natural cleansing process that will make you feel (and look!) even better

We asked Joy McCarthy, a Toronto-based certified holistic nutritionist and author of Joyous Detox, to share five simple detox practices we can commit to doing every single day.

These detox rituals aren't only sustainable long term but also deliver big results like improved digestion, increased energy, glowing skin and a strengthened immune system. 

Image: Christopher Bodnar

1. Add dry brushing to your beauty regimen.  
Incorporate this easy detoxifying habit to your daily routine before a shower or bath to stimulate your lymphatic system. Since your skin is your largest organ of elimination, dry brushing it improves the flow of lymph fluid, which assists in the removal of waste from the body. A bonus? The practice also facilitates the removal of dead skin cells, allowing your skin to glow.

2. Drink a large glass (12 oz) of filtered water as soon as you wake up.
Drinking plenty of water, especially first thing in the morning, aids in the effective elimination of waste and toxins from your body. Joy suggests looking at your skin for proof of adequate hydration––it should look plump and well moisturized. For further detox benefits, squeeze in fresh lemon juice or add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.

3. Pop a probiotic.
A healthy gut is the foundation of good overall health, increased energy and effective detoxification. Taking a daily probiotic that’s packed with active bacterial cultures populates your gut with good bacteria, which helps break down waste and toxins in the large intestine. Fermented foods, such as kimchi and apple cider vinegar, are also loaded with good bacteria and super nourishing to the gut.

4. Avoid chemicals in personal care products.
Be diligent about reading the ingredients labels on your personal care products. From toothpaste and deodorant to moisturizers and mascara, the majority of products available in North America contain harmful chemicals that may disrupt your hormones, cause allergic reactions and damage your cells. Joy put together a list of the top ten toxic ingredients (as compiled by Environmental Defence) in her book Joyous Detox, and you can download The Toxic Ten Pocket Guide here.

5. Load upon plant-based foods. 
The power of plant-based foods cannot be denied. With more than 23,000 phytonutrients, plants boast incredible healing benefits. Some phytonutrients, such as those found in green tea or coriander, stimulate the detoxification of heavy metals like lead, cadmium and aluminum, which can be absorbed into your body from your cosmetics. Others like those present in certain cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli and cauliflower, stimulate the removal of excess estrogen from the body. Choose a variety brightly coloured fruits and vegetables when you grocery shop––that’s the sign of an abundance of phytonutrients because these beneficial plant chemicals are what provide vibrant colours and flavours.