There are so many cleanses and detox diets out there, it’s difficult to figure out which ones really work and which ones are simply fads. Yet the simple way to detoxify your body is to recharge your liver and improve its function. The liver performs a multitude of functions within our bodies, including removal of toxins. And depending on your diet and lifestyle, your liver might be a bit fatigued from all the work you are making it do.
So what are some easy ways to treat your liver with some TLC?
First, cut back on alcohol consumption, as more than 90% of alcohol is metabolized in your liver.
Second, stop taking acetaminophen (aka Tylenol), as it is hard on the liver.
Third, drink more water. This naturally flushes toxins from your body.
Fourth, add in some particular foods that will boost hepatic function (that’s the fancy word meaning liver). Here are just a few to get things going in the right direction:
Mediterranean Diet – this diet plan in general has been linked to improved liver health and improved overall health. This plan focuses on antioxidant rich foods. Many of the following foods are a part of this diet.
Salmon – high in omega-3 fat which may help boost liver function, and Vit. D which can protect against liver disease.
Red, Blue, and Purple Fruits and Veggies – these tend to contain anthocyanins which seem to be especially helpful in combatting fatty liver. High anthocyanin foods include raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, red radishes, red cabbage, cranberries, red or black grapes.
Turmeric – also called curcumin, the active ingredient. This is a great addition to your diet, in the form of turmeric powder or the root itself, or supplements, or even curry powder in your meals.
Coffee and Green Tea – both of these have been shown to improve liver health.
Sulfur-containing Foods – these include eggs, broccoli, onions, and garlic. These foods that are rich in sulfur help with excretion of heavy metals and enhance the function of glutathione, an antioxidant involved in detoxification.
Soy – soy protein has been shown to alleviate damage to the liver when fat has started to accumulate. Soy also can moderate some of the ill effects of diabetes on the liver.
As you can see, most of this revolves around eating natural, high antioxidant foods. The other thing to do is avoid highly processed foods, frozen meals, high sodium foods, and sugary foods – all of these take a toll on hepatic function.