Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Times of India
The Times of India
Lifestyle
TOI Lifestyle Desk | etimes.in

5 best ways to detox the digestive system

Highlights

  • Hydrating with a saltwater flush can effectively detox the digestive system by promoting bowel movements and eliminating waste.
  • Increasing fiber intake is crucial for digestive health, acting as a natural detox by helping to move waste through the intestines.
  • Triphala, a traditional Ayurvedic remedy made from amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki, is known for its mild purifying properties and aids in digestive health.
  • Probiotics, or 'good' bacteria, play a vital role in maintaining gut health and can help alleviate issues like gas and bloating.
  • Practicing fasting, such as the 16:8 intermittent fasting method, allows the digestive system to rest and aids in detoxification.

The state of our digestive systems matters greatly to our overall health. Bloating to tiredness are just a few of the unpleasant effects that digestive issues can have on your day-to-day activities. A thorough detox can reset your digestive system and help get rid of toxins that may have built up over time. There are efficient, safe, and natural ways to clean your digestive system, whether you choose to use contemporary methods or traditional ones. These are the top five methods for enhancing digestion and detoxifying.

Hydrate with a saltwater flush

Saltwater flushes are one of the simplest and most effective ways to detox the digestive system. Drinking a mixture of warm water and non-iodized sea salt, which functions as a natural laxative, is the traditional cure. By causing bowel motions, eliminating waste, and creating a feeling of lightness, saltwater aids in intestinal cleansing.

To try a saltwater flush, dissolve two teaspoons of sea salt in one quart (about a liter) of warm water and drink it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. It’s essential to stay hydrated and be near a bathroom for the next few hours, as the flush will work quickly. This method is not suitable for everyone, especially if you have health conditions like high blood pressure.

Boost your fiber intake

Fiber is the unsung hero of digestive health. It helps move waste through the intestines, preventing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements. A fiber-rich diet can naturally detox your digestive system by acting as a “broom” that sweeps out toxins and waste.

Good sources of fiber include fruits, whole grains, legumes, and leafy greens. To help in better digestion, try to add a range of soluble and insoluble fiber into your meals. Oats and apples have soluble fiber, which aids in softening stools, but whole grains and vegetables provide insoluble fiber, which increases weight and expedites passage through the digestive system.

Try an ayurvedic detox with Triphala

Triphala is a traditional Ayurvedic remedy that is well-known for its mild purifying properties. For generations, people have utilized triphala, a fruit blend made of amla, bibhitaki, and haritaki. It helps with digestive health and intestinal cleaning.

Combine half a teaspoon of triphala powder with warm water and take before bed. This method can assist regular cleaning and help keep the digestive tract clear if it is used consistently.

Probiotics for gut health

Trillions of bacteria reside in your stomach and are essential for both digestion and detoxification. Disproportionate levels of pathogenic bacteria can cause gas, bloating, and other digestive problems. Probiotics, also known as "good" bacteria, can support the maintenance of intestinal harmony and balance.

Probiotic-rich foods, including curd, help improve your gut flora and facilitate digestion. Frequent probiotic use promotes nutrient absorption, aids in the body's natural detoxification process, and helps keep the balance of bacteria in the stomach healthy.

Practice fasting or intermittent fasting

Fasting is a traditional method of allowing your digestive system to rest and reset. When you go without food for a set period of time, your body has more time to focus on healing and cleansing.

A common method of intermittent fasting is the 16:8 paradigm. It calls for 16 hours of fasting and an 8-hour window for eating. By doing this, you enable your digestive system to mend itself and help get rid of waste and toxins.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.