The concept of “cleansing” one’s blood has gained popularity in wellness circles, often associated with detox teas, juice fasts, or herbal supplements. But can you clean your blood?
The short answer: Your body already does it — naturally and efficiently.
Your kidneys and liver are your built-in detox powerhouses. The kidneys filter about 50 gallons of blood every single day, removing waste and excess fluids through urine. Meanwhile, your liver breaks down toxins, metabolizes drugs, and processes nutrients — all without the help of trendy detox drinks (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 2021).
Many products claim to “flush toxins” or “purify blood,” but there’s no scientific evidence that supplements or detox diets enhance these natural processes. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), “there isn’t any convincing evidence that detox or cleansing programs remove toxins from your body or improve health” (NCCIH, 2023).
That said, you can support your body’s natural detoxification systems with healthy habits:
- Stay hydrated. Water helps your kidneys flush waste.
- Eat fiber-rich foods. Fiber supports gut health and toxin elimination.
- Limit alcohol and processed foods. These put extra strain on your liver.
- Exercise regularly. It improves circulation and overall metabolic function.
If you have concerns about toxins in your body, such as exposure to heavy metals or certain medications, always consult a healthcare provider. In medical settings, “blood cleansing” may refer to treatments such as dialysis or plasmapheresis, which are used to address specific health conditions, rather than promoting general wellness.
Bottom line: You don’t need expensive cleanses to “clean your blood.” Your kidneys and liver already have that job, and they do it well. The best way to support them? Eat clean, drink water, and skip the detox hype.