Liver Detox: Foods That Boost Liver Function

August 19, 2023

The liver is the body's largest internal organ, and it is located in the upper right area of the abdomen. Although the liver has natural mechanisms for detoxification, modern diets are often high in fast food, fried foods, and saturated fats, which can all place considerable stress on the organ. To optimize liver health, many experts recommend that patients adopt a diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables. Diet is, in fact, one of the major treatments for conditions such as fatty liver disease. Patients who have any concerns about their liver should see their doctor for an evaluation, and blood tests can be used to determine if the liver is functioning properly.

Green Tea

Green tea contains potent antioxidants known as catechins, and multiple studies indicate these could protect the liver. Antioxidants aid the liver in its natural process of detoxification, and these substances also eliminate the free radicals produced as byproducts. The antioxidants in green tea are especially important in the early stages of the liver's detoxification, and they increase the activity of enzymes responsible for the first two parts of this process. Published in September 2015, a study in rats showed a compound in green tea known as epigallocatechin gallat (EGCG) was capable of protecting the liver from damage caused by acetaminophen, one of the most commonly used over-the-counter pain relievers. The EGCG inhibited the body's absorption of the acetaminophen by reducing the activity of liver enzymes that control the metabolism of medications. An additional study published in June 2015 in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine reported green tea appears to reduce the overall risk of liver disease.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a yellow spice that can be added to foods in powdered form, and it is also available in concentrated capsules as a nutritional supplement. The spice contains high levels of curcumin, a substance that may be beneficial in the treatment of liver cancer and other types of liver disease. A study by researchers at UCLA measured levels of certain enzymes associated with the promotion of tumor growth, and the study authors determined the activity of these enzymes was inhibited with the use of curcumin supplements. In addition, studies have shown curcumin helps the gallbladder, and this could indirectly help the liver with processing bile and breaking down fats. Experts recommend adding ground turmeric to regular meals whenever possible, and it is a key ingredient in a popular beverage known as golden milk. Patients might also wish to take turmeric in capsule form, and individuals who try this method should always adhere to the recommended dosage on the bottle.

Grapefruit

Grapefruit is often enjoyed as a whole fruit at breakfast, and many individuals drink grapefruit juice with meals. Studies have demonstrated this fruit can help reduce cholesterol and improve weight loss, both of which could help patients dealing with fatty liver disease. In a three-month study of eighty-five individuals with obesity, American researchers concluded both blond and red grapefruit (either in juice or as a whole fruit) reduced low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and also led to a seven percent increase in overall weight loss as compared to a control group. Other studies suggest red grapefruit is beneficial in the reduction of triglycerides too. Researchers believe the pectin in grapefruit could be an important source of soluble fiber that may support healthy weight loss. However, grapefruit can interfere with many prescription medications, including the statins often prescribed to reduce cholesterol. In fact, taking grapefruit could cause the body to absorb too much of a drug. Atorvastatin (a cholesterol-reducing medicine) and felodipine (a drug that lowers blood pressure) are just two of the prescription medicines that should not be taken with grapefruit. In some cases, patients might be able to consume small amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking a particular prescription, but it might be necessary to avoid grapefruit for the entire course of treatment. The patient should always ask their doctor or pharmacist about potential interactions with grapefruit before starting a new medication.

Beetroots And Beetroot Juice

Beetroots and beetroot juice are important dietary additions for anyone who wants to boost their liver health. Beets contain compounds known as betalains, and these substances help build enzymes that improve the activity of antioxidants within the liver and promote the detoxification process by binding to toxins. Scientists believe beetroots and beetroot juice support liver health by thinning bile (a green-brown fluid secreted by the liver that aids digestion) so it can flow more easily through the liver and into the intestines. Ongoing trials being conducted by the American Liver Foundation suggest beets likely play an important role in the prevention and healing of liver disease. To incorporate beets into the diet, nutritionists advise trying them pickled or raw in a salad, and many patients like to consume them in borscht, a popular winter soup. Beetroot juice may be the most palatable option for individuals just starting to incorporate this food into their healthy lifestyle.

Garlic

Used as a health remedy in ancient Egypt and during the Middle Ages, research suggests garlic could be a valuable tool in the fight against liver cancer and fatty liver disease. Garlic contains a sulfur compound called allicin, a substance activated when garlic is chopped or crushed. A study published in the October 2013 issue of the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry demonstrated allicin can cause liver cancer cells to self-destruct, and researchers are continuing to study its anti-cancer properties. Research also indicates garlic helps lower cholesterol levels and reduce the amount of fat accumulated in the liver, and the 2013 issue of The Nutrition Reviews recommended regular consumption of garlic to prevent or reduce the symptoms of fatty liver disease. In addition, researchers believe garlic could help reduce liver hypertension and overall inflammation in the organ. Since garlic can cause drug interactions, patients taking protease inhibitors or anticoagulants should check whether they can safely consume this food.

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