A detox will involve some pretty significant changes for your body, and so to give it an additional boost, you may want to consider taking a regular, high-quality multi-vitamin. One made with greens by a reputable natural foods company is best.

But vitamins aren’t the only way you can support your body during a detox. Digestive enzymes and antioxidants will give your systems the added boost they need as they slog through the cleansing process. They’ll also help you feel vibrant and healthy throughout the process.

Antioxidant Support During a Detox

Antioxidants are involved in the removal of toxins in the body, making them essential in a detoxification program. In essence, antioxidants help cells by neutralizing free radicals, which are atoms that can cause cellular damage and contribute to the mutation of other cells. Too many free radicals and you’re likely to be a candidate for diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Taking antioxidants during your cleanse, therefore, will further enhance the effectiveness of the detox diet. Here are a few of the more important options:

• Vitamin A: This vitamin is important for bone growth, vision, cell division, reproduction, and cell differentiation. It also helps to regulate the immune system and fight off infection. Vitamin A from animal products (liver, whole milk ,etc) is called “performed vitamin A”, whereas vitamin A from colorful fruits and veggies is called “provitamin A carotenoid” and includes things like beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, and so on. Vitamin A is fat-soluble and should therefore be taken with food.
• Vitamin C: A popular form of vitamin C is ascorbic acid, though it is only one in the vitamin C complex group. The body uses vitamin C for energy in the processing and elimination of toxic wastes. This vitamin is water-soluble and it should be taken with bioflavonoids for proper absorption and effectiveness.
• Vitamin E: Another important antioxidant vitamin, E helps to prevent the clogging of arteries by blocking the conversion of cholesterol into plaque (waxy fat deposits). Additionally, it can help to prevent heart disease and naturally thins the blood. It is also important in the fight against cancer, pancreatitis, diabetes, visual degradation, and more.

Adding Digestive Enzymes to Your Detox Program

A multi-digestive enzyme may also be beneficial to your body during a detox. Although these enzymes can also be found in foods such as fruits and vegetables, we’re often deficient, especially during a detox. The liver—the organ responsible for the vast majority of day-to-day detoxification—can make and store its own enzymes, but by providing additional support, the liver is better able to do its job.

Enzymes also help to break down food—especially processed, refined, or heated food—and will aid in digestion during your cleanse. In fact, they can liquefy bowel content (including that which has accumulated in the folds of the colon over the years), helping you clear out your digestive system by reducing transit time. Enzymes should be taken between meals to boost their effectiveness.