This Heavy Metal Detox Smoothie is not only delicious and a No 1 favourite on retreat, but it also offers a fabulous range of health benefits due to its nutrient-rich ingredients.

But before we make the smoothie, what are Heavy Metals and why do we need to be aware of them?

In a nutshell, heavy metals, are metallic elements that have a relatively high density compared to water, and are found naturally in the environment. They’re also present in certain foods, medicines, and supplements. Furthermore, many chemicals used in industry and farming contain heavy metals that can end up in the air, soil, and water.

These metals can enter the body through various means, including the food we eat, the air we breath, or through skin contact, which can then lead to heavy metal poisoning. Some heavy metals like zinc or iron are essential for your health, but can become toxic if you have too much. Other heavy metals, like arsenic, serve no purpose in your body and can harm you if they build up to toxic levels.

Examples of heavy metals include: Arsenic, Cadmium, Chromium, Copper, Iron, Lead, Manganese, Mercury, Nickel, Selenium and Zinc.

Symptoms of Heavy Metal Toxicity

Symptoms can be challenging to diagnose due to their general nature. Common symptoms include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Additionally, individuals may experience tingling in hands and feet, shortness of breath, chills, and muscle weakness. Memory loss, behavioral changes, and arrhythmias can also indicate heavy metal toxicity.

Ntaurally if you think you might be suffering with any of these symptoms it is essential to speak with a qualified healthcare provider.

Lifestyle Changes

There also is some evidence to show that exercise and sweating in general, can help the body detox itself of heavy metals. For instance, research shows that exercise-induced sweating can effectively remove harmful heavy metals from your body.  In fact, researchers have found that sweating is more effective than urinating when it comes to removing chromium, copper, cadmium, lead, and zinc from the body. Exercise also can reduce the level of trace heavy metals in the body. Using a sauna can also be an effective way to rid the body of heavy metals, but more research is needed in this area.

Dietary Changes

Research has also shown that a diet rich in nutrient dense whole foods, especially vegetables and fruits, can support the body’s elimination processes. Not only do these foods provide a variety nutrients, but they also contain phytochemicals, which can have beneficial effects against toxicity. Some examples of recommended foods might include onion, ginger, grapes, tomatoes, and berries. Likewise, fresh medicial herbs and leafy greens can help with heavy metal metabolism.  Many fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, glutathione, carotenoids, and flavonoids which can protect your tissues from the damaging effects of toxic metals.

This delicious brightly coloured smoothie is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with parsley and coriander both of which are known to bind and purge heavy metals from the body, purifying your tissues, organs and blood. They also help to improve digestion and guard against free radical damage! A recent study showed that coriander even purifies water!

So let’s get going…

Ingredients:

• 100g Blueberries
• ½ Lemon (freshly juiced)
•  ½ Apple (freshly juiced)
• 2 tsp Chia Seeds
• 1 Handful Fresh Parsley
• 300ml Coconut Water
• 1 tsp Spirulina

Method:

1. Simply place all of the ingredients in your blender and blitz for about 30-40 seconds, until smooth
2. Sip slowly and savor the vibrant colours and flavors, allowing these delicious ingredients to to nourish your body.

Nutrtional Facts:

Here’s a quick breakdown of the benefits of each magical ingredient:

Blueberries:

• Rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help fight oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Supports heart health by reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• May improve cognitive function and protect against age-related decline in brain function.

Lemon Juice:

• Excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and supports collagen production for healthy skin.
• Acts as a natural detoxifier and aids digestion by promoting the production of digestive enzymes.

Apple Juice:

• Provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including vitamin C and polyphenols.
• Supports digestive health and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Chia Seeds:

• High in fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Fresh Parsley:

• Contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants like flavonoids and carotenoids.
• Supports kidney health and may help reduce bloating and water retention.

Coconut Water:

• Hydrating and rich in electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and sodium.
• Supports hydration and replenishes electrolytes lost during exercise or sweating.

Spirulina:

• Nutrient-dense algae rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Supports detoxification by binding to heavy metals and toxins in the body.
• Boosts energy levels and supports immune function.

Overall, our Heavy Metals Detox Smoothie provides a nourishing blend of ingredients that can support overall health, aid in detoxification, and provide essential nutrients to the body. It’s a refreshing and nutritious way to start your day, or a wonderful mid afternoon health boost.

I’d love to know what you think… please do share your comments below and share your pictures on social… don’t forget to tag us @maisondelunel