8 natural DIY detox drinks

If you've done any research on healthy eating and lifestyle changes, you've probably heard at least one person preach about the benefits of a detox. According to Mindbodygreen, eating unhealthy food, dealing with stress and smoking can build up toxins in your body. A detox, in theory, helps your body eliminate some of these toxins and can aid in weight loss. 

While Berkeley Wellness says that your body is already designed to eliminate toxins on its own, and there is no scientific evidence to support the detox concept, proponents of detoxing swear that some of these recipes can aid in the process. If you are considering a detox -- or want to jump-start your weight-loss diet -- check out these recipes. 

The antiseptic properties in the lemon combined with anti-inflammatory properties in the cucumber may help your body get rid of toxins. Simply add sliced cucumber, a sliced lemon and mint leaves to a pitcher of water. Allow it to sit overnight. You'll get hydrated and enjoy some detox benefits while you're at it.

This simple recipe is tasty and has fewer than 10 calories, plus it counts toward your daily goal for water consumption. This recipe is said to help increase your energy and slim down the waist. Simply add a large, thinly sliced apple and a stick of cinnamon to a pitcher of water, let it set for a few hours and enjoy.

This drink was made popular by Dr. Oz and is touted to help your body ditch extra toxins, increase energy, provide hydration and help you lose weight. In a large pitcher of water, slice up one grapefruit, one tangerine, one cucumber and 20 peppermint leaves. Let this mixture sit overnight. Drink one glass before each meal.

Many health experts have touted the health benefits of green tea, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This recipe by SkinnyMom combines green tea, lemon, honey, strawberries and cucumbers for a flavorful detox. Brew the tea per your usual routine, then chill for about five minutes. Add your fruit, cucumber and honey. Enjoy at least once per day for maximum benefits. 

Want to take away a little stress while you hydrate and detox? This triple threat may help you do just that. The active ingredient in this recipe, apple cider vinegar, is purported to reduce the risk of diabetes, aid in weight loss, soothe tummy troubles and aid in digestion, according to Mamavation. The fruit offers health benefits and helps disguise the vinegar's strong flavor. 

Try this recipe from Blender Babes. This recipe is also part of Dr Oz's collection of detox smoothies. You'll need 1 cup of water, 1 cup raspberries, 1/4 cup spinach, 1 banana, 1 tablespoon of almond butter, 1 tablespoon of flax seeds, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice and ice. Combine all of your ingredients in a blender. This  smoothie has a lot of fiber and is a great option for breakfast. 

Fruit-infused water is a popular way to help people craving soda nix the habit. Adding fruit to your water makes it less boring to drink and can offer additional health benefits. The chart above shows you a few different ways to combine fruits to take maximum advantage of their healthy vitamins and minerals. Let your water blend of choice steep for a few hours so that the flavors have time to combine properly. 

Green tea contains antioxidants, more so than any other tea. Using green tea as the base for your detox recipes can aid in the cleansing process and provide fat-burning properties as well. Try one of the above recipes, from The Indian Spot, at breakfast and at least one other time each day to see maximum benefits. 

If you enjoyed this, please SHARE this story with family an friends!