What’s the deal with detox drinks?

What’s the deal with detox drinks
YMCA — Global — Mar 2026 YMCA — Global — Mar 2026
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Hundreds of detox drinks exist, so it can be confusing to know what to choose.

The good news is that our bodies detox themselves naturally — so it’s not necessary to have a specialty drink on hand to eliminate toxins and waste every day. But there are ways to speed up the process — and crafting your own detox drink is a tasty and effective way to do it.

Here are seven ingredients that can zest up your drink.

1. Spinach

Nearly three-quarters of Americans do not consume enough fruits and vegetables, according to the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans. That’s why drinking them can help. Fresh vegetable juice, like spinach juice, is a great low-carb drink packed with vital vitamins and nutrients.

2. Citrus fruit

Explore the delicious twist the rainbow of citrus can bring to sparkling water. Oranges, grapefruit, pomelos, yuzu, lemons and limes have antioxidant properties and are excellent sources of key vitamins, nutrients and soluble fiber.

3. Apple cider vinegar

For those who want to change up the flavor profile of their detox drink, apple cider vinegar provides a distinctive mix of tart, dry and woody. Its benefits, including supporting a healthy immune system and digestive function, make it a great ingredient to add to a glass of water every day.

4. Cranberries

Cranberries take center table at many Thanksgiving dinners, but they deserve a place on the menu all year long. The tangy and mighty berry is believed to help ward off urinary tract infections, improve immune function and decrease blood pressure. It is concentrated with vitamins that help prevent internal infections and ulcers.

5. Cucumber

With a slightly bitter flavor, a cucumber jazzes up a detox drink. With vitamin C, beta carotene and manganese, as well as several flavonoid antioxidants, cucumbers pack a nutrient punch while delivering a refreshing taste.

6. Ginger

Ginger delivers potent anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. It’s a delicious and rich ingredient that can spice up detox smoothies, as well as hot water, tea and coffee.

7. Pink Himalayan salt

Salt water is good for skin and hair, but did you know it does a body good too? While it sounds counterintuitive, drinking warm salt water helps you stay hydrated. It also provides a natural laxative effect, which is critical for detoxifying naturally. It just takes 1 teaspoon per 8-ounce glass of water. 

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