Best supplements to detox: Take these four nutrients with your Boxing Day breakfast

Detoxing – where you rid the body of toxins – is likely to be something you start thing about on Boxing Day.

But aside from lacing up your trainers for a run and piling your plate with more green vegetables, how can you help your body recover most efficiently?

The Christmas period will have depleted your reserves of particular nutrients, and this is likely to be what is making you feel less than fantastic right now.

Chris Newbold, head of clinical nutrition at BioCare, has revealed to Express.co.uk the supplements to get your body back in working order for New Year.

Probiotics

Indulgent food at Christmas parties and family gatherings is likely to leave your tummy feeling a little all over the place.

“It can put a lot of stress on our digestive system which can lead on to symptoms such as diarrhoea, constipation, heartburn and flatulence,” explained Newbold.

“Supplementing with probiotics, like BioCare Everyday Bioacidophilus, or digestive enzymes – such as BioCare Polyzyme Forte – can help. 

“Digestive enzymes help us break down sugars, carbohydrates, proteins and fats in foods. Look for a supplement that contains a broad spectrum of enzymes to aid digestion and relieve symptoms such as acid reflux and bloating.”

He added that going for a Boxing Day walk can help stimulate the digestive system and support healthy passage of stools. 

Antioxidants

Our bodies do a good job of dealing with foods, additives, toxins we’re breathing in, caffeine, alcohol, household chemicals on a daily basis.

However, there are nutrients that can help the detoxification process – particularly after the festive season.

“You could try a supplement to support your liver – a combination of nutrients like methionine, choline, and antioxidants help the liver process a range of different chemicals we ingest,” Newbold explained.

“BioCare’s HepaGuard Forte is a great combination for everyday liver support. Also make sure you drink enough water to help to flush the toxins out.”

Reducing alcohol intake at this point would also help.

Omega-3 fatty acids

If you’re feeling hungover on Boxing Day it is likely you will be low in a number of key nutrients.

“A binge drinking session destroys your gut bacteria  and depletes your body of essential fatty acids, B vitamins, vitamin A and minerals,” said Newbold.

“So consider taking a multivitamin, essential fatty acids and probiotic supplements the morning after, and, possibly throughout the festive period.”

Essential fatty acids include omega-3, which is also great for brain health.

Take the supplements with a healthy breakfast of poached eggs, wilted spinach, grilled tomatoes and sliced avocado, Newbold advised.

B vitamins

Your Christmas diet is likely to have been less than nourishing, noted Newbold.

“Take a daily multinutrient containing B vitamins for energy, folate and B12 to help you detoxify, and vitamins A, C and zinc to support your immunity. BioCare’s Methyl multinutrient is a perfect choice,” he said.

Upping your intake of plant-based foods could help too.

“Green vegetables and fruits really are your friend as they are packed full of nutrients and also support the detoxification process of rich food and alcohol from your body,” he suggested.

“Smoothies including kale, spinach, broccoli, and apples can be a great way to ensure your body is getting the nutrients it needs. 

“As it is winter time, you can also put green vegetables into a soup for lunch or dinner, adding in herbs such as coriander, which is highly detoxifying and full of plant chemicals.”