Did you know that liver is the second largest organ of our human body? The liver is a powerhouse organ that functions non-stop. It helps out in almost all of our body functions like detoxification, protein synthesis, glycogen storage, hormone secretion, bile production, decomposition of red blood cells, and even in the digestion process by helping in the production of biochemical. In short, we can easily conclude that without the liver our body will certainly not be functional. Therefore, all of us need to indulge in foods that will keep our liver healthy.
Off late, if you have been feeling very exhausted, or if you feel super sluggish throughout the day, and have been developing problems with your gut or digestion—chances are that your liver is being exerted and feeling the load too much. Because right from eliminating toxins from our blood, storing minerals and vitamins in the body, activating enzymes to regulating protein, fat, and carbohydrate in our blood—our liver does it all. All of these constant mechanisms that the liver performs tired this organ out and it becomes more susceptible to damage if it isn’t taken care of that well. Any kind of harm to the liver will end up hampering the basic metabolic functions of the body. However, one good news is that the liver cleanses itself. Also, it is easy to heal the liver and minimize any symptoms that it causes by consuming nutritious and healthy foods. Here we bring to you a list of seven foods that are recommended for the good health of your liver.
Best Foods That Are Healthy For Your Liver
- Garlic
One of the methods of keeping the liver healthy is by ensuring healthy detoxification of the body. Garlic is extremely rich in an antioxidant called allicin. This antioxidant helps protect the body from any kind of oxidative damage. It even exhibits liver protection effects known as hepatoprotective that stimulates the liver which in turn activates the enzymes which help in flushing out dangerous substances from our body. Just 400 mg of garlic powder is capable of reducing fat mass and body weight among subjects who have NAFLD (nonalcoholic fatty liver disorder) without touching the lean body mass.
Just by eating a single clove of garlic every morning will help your liver get healthy. Even if you add 1 to 2 teaspoons of chopped or minced garlic or even adding garlic paste to your food every day will help.
- Coffee
It is a beverage widely loved all over the world. Apart from providing stimulating effects, coffee also has a certain hepatoprotective role to play. Several studies talk about coffee capable of providing protective effects against any kind of liver dysfunction. In a study, participants who had 3 cups of this beverage exhibited lower progression of the disease when compared to those who drank just one cup or even lesser.
Having 2 to 3 cups of coffee in a day helps battle liver problems.
- Turmeric
The main element in turmeric that provides protection against any liver disease is the bioactive agent called Curcumin. It ensures that the liver stands protected from any kind of inflammation, it improved the lipid metabolism, minimizes oxidative stress, and improves insulin sensitivity. When it comes to understanding how much dosage of turmeric will keep the liver happy, make a note of the following:
- The fluid extract can be had 30-90 drops in a 1:1 ratio per day
- The tincture can be had 15-20 drops in a 1:2 ratio 3-4 times per day
- Turmeric supplement can be had 400-600 mg 2-3 times per day
- Turmeric root can be had 5-3 grams per day
- Turmeric paste or powder can be had 1-3 grams per day
If you are unable to have it directly, you can mix it with milk or bulletproof coffee and consume it.
- Broccoli
Broccoli is considered to be a very good source of isothiocyanates, a sulfur-containing compound. Broccoli is known to have isothiocyanates that regulate genes that are involved in the job of flushing out carcinogens from the body and improve the metabolism of the body. They also contain plenty of anti-inflammatory properties as well. Several studies conducted in the US have shown that consuming broccoli can help in reducing the chances of contracting a nonalcoholic fatty liver. Consuming broccolis also helps in protecting the liver and not develop any chances of liver cancer as well. One can have a cup of broccoli at least 2 to 3 times a week.
- Avocado
This nutty yet buttery fruit has always been known to be packed with humungous health benefits; out of which protecting the liver against harm is also one. Avocados are known to be rich in all kinds of healthy fats, they have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties as well.
We all know that a fatty liver is caused due to unhealthy practices and bad lifestyle choices that we make. The anti-oxidant properties and anti-inflammatory properties of the avocados help rectify this harm. Avocados suppress liver damage. One can indulge in two to three slices of avocado twice or thrice a week.
- Green Tea
This antioxidant-rich beverage provides more than just one health benefit to us humans. The goodness of green tea is mainly from the polyphenols called catechins present. Chinese studies show how participants who consumed green tea shower lesser chances of having a liver problem like liver cancer, liver disease, liver cirrhosis, hepatitis, etc. However, careful consumption of green tea must be practiced because of its caffeine content, aluminum presence, and iron bioavailability effects. This doesn’t make green tea to be healthy for everybody. Therefore, talk to your doctor before consuming any green tea to better your liver health. If your body doesn’t react negatively with green tea then having two cups of the same should be enough.
- Olive Oil
It is mainly the unhealthy choices of life that stem the problem of the liver in us humans. And according to scientists, those who consume olive oil are likely to not succumb to liver problems. Olive oil is known to lower serum triglyceride levels and bad cholesterol levels; it also helps in increasing lipid oxidation and insulin sensitivity. Hence, using olive oil in your food preparations will ensure that your liver is healthy.
Here’s A List Of Lesser-Known Signs That Communicate That Your Liver Isn’t Functioning Properly
- Bloating
- Unsuccessful attempts in using weight
- Dark urine
- Constipation
- Headache
- Poor appetite
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Compromised immunity
- Bruising
- Excessive sweating
- Acid reflux
- Heartburn
- Yellow eyes and skin
- Fatigue
If you are facing one or more of the above-mentioned symptoms, then it’s time for you to talk to your doctor right away and get a clear picture of the underlying problems as well. A healthy, functioning liver is very important for us to lead a healthy life. The liver makes for an important organ of the body and there is no running away from that fact. Make sure you include these liver-healthy foods in your diet to improve your liver health. Talk to a doctor or nutritionist if you need more help in this regard.