Liver Loving Tips

3d render medical illustration of the human liverAfter the Holidays it can be a good idea to give the liver a break.  The over-consumption of sugar, alcohol, and party foods can put a strain on the liver and hinder its ability to perform its over 500 vital functions in the body.

Our liver is an amazing organ, it processes everything you eat, drink, breathe in or rub on your skin.  It works 24 hours a day providing the body with energy, fighting infections, regulating hormones, manufacturing essential proteins, regulating vitamins and minerals, just to name a few…

The following is a list of ways you can show your liver some love…

  1. Avoid sugar – it is inflammatory and can contribute to Fatty Liver Disease
  2. Reduce Alcohol Consumption – Excess consumption of alcohol can reduce liver stores of metabolizing B Vitamins and possibly lead to nutrient deficiencies.
  3. Avoid environmental toxins –  Household cleaning products and cosmetics often contain harsh chemicals that must be detoxed by the liver.  As the saying goes, “If you wouldn’t put it in your mouth you should not put it on your skin.” 
  4. There are several different detoxifying herbs that can help to restore vitality to the liver.  The following herbs can be found in liver supporting supplements and teas:  Milk Thistle, Licorice, Gentian, Ginger and/or Turmeric.
  5. Eat unprocessed foods in their most natural form. The chemicals and hydrogenated fats contained in packaged foods have to be processed by the liver.
To help support the liver, try and incorporate the following foods as often as possible:
  1. Lemons – drink a glass of water with the juice of ½ lemon each morning, wait 20 minutes before consuming anything else.  This alkalinizing habit can help kick start your liver for the day.
  2. Dark leafy greens such as arugula, dandelion greens, collard greens, beet greens, kale and spinach help with the production of cleansing bile.
  3. Garlic contains sulfur compounds that activate liver enzymes.
  4. Grapefruit contains a flavonoid compound known as naringenin that causes the liver to burn fat rather than store it.
  5. Green Tea is loaded with a type of plan antioxidant that has been shown to promote proper liver function.
  6. Turmeric (curcumin) is a powerful antioxidant that can help support the liver.  Add it to curries, guacamole or make a turmeric tea.
  7. Avocado is rich in glutathione (the master antioxidant) which promotes liver health.
  8. Walnuts contain high levels of l-arginine, glutathione and omega 3 fatty acids.

For more information about how to incorporate these liver loving foods and ideas into your day to day life – please contact me at nutrition@glendabritton.com.

Do not make any significant changes in diet or lifestyle without consulting a qualified health care provider.

RESOURCES: