What is the Depurative Diet?
A purifying diet is a particular diet, aimed at enhancing the elimination of toxic substances present in the blood through a weighted choice of foods .
By following a correct diet it is in fact possible to assist the body’s natural detoxification processes and reduce the amount of toxins originating during the various metabolisms.
A purifying diet must therefore be based on the consumption of easily digestible foods , low in fat and above all in protein .
Purify the Excretory Organs
The nitrogenous wastes deriving from the hepatic metabolism of the proteins are eliminated through the renal emunctory and it is these two organs that undertake most of the detoxifying activity.
The liver, in particular, is put to the test by food excesses (too abundant meals, alcohol abuse , etc.) and its overwork ends up slowing down the metabolic activity of the entire organism. Furthermore, if the amount of toxins to be metabolized is excessive, its purifying capacity is saturated and these substances remain in circulation.
In addition to reducing protein intake and limiting caloric intake , a purifying diet must promote optimal liver function , providing the liver with all the substrates necessary to support the various detoxification processes. In general, these substances are found in vegetables and whole foods , but also in animal foods such as eggs and fish , which – even if in some moderation – must in any case be consumed regularly.
Then there are plants endowed with a specific ” hepatoprotective ” activity even if this term, widely used in the past, is inappropriate. Artichoke, boldo and milk thistle promote, for example, liver function, favoring bile secretion and consequently also improving the health of the intestine .
A purifying diet must facilitate the elimination of toxins in the urine and faeces (the third way, sweat , can be enhanced by physical activity or by staying in warm environments, such as the sauna and the Turkish bath ).
For this purpose , diuretic foods on the one hand and those rich in fiber / laxatives on the other are particularly useful ; also in this case both effects are the prerogative of foods of plant origin. It is also important to keep the intake of liquids high, which can come from water or unsweetened fruit juices, smoothies and herbal teas .
