You might not realize it but the liver performs a wide range of functions in your body. It manages the fats, proteins, and carbohydrates that you eat while controlling the production of important fats and proteins. Additionally, your liver is responsible for breaking down the toxins that come from the foods you eat as well as other natural bodily functions. If your liver isn’t performing well, you’ll have problems with maintaining your health. Fortunately, there are a variety of liver-cleansing foods that you can include in your diet to keep your liver in tip-top shape.
1. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a great source of fiber, which helps with digestion and makes the liver’s job a little easier. Studies also show that oatmeal contains beta-glucans, which have an active role in reducing inflammation in the body, boosting the immune system, and cutting down on the amount of fat the liver stores.
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2. Coffee
Coffee has been shown to have a positive effect on the liver in several ways. It reduces inflammation, prevents the buildup of fat, and reduces your risk of developing cirrhosis. These benefits also apply to people who already have some form of chronic liver disease.
3. Green Tea
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Studies show that green tea is particularly beneficial to the liver. People who drink it have seen improved liver function even if they have a chronic condition. Drinking green tea may also reduce your risk of developing liver cancer.
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4. Grapefruits
Grapefruits contain two powerful antioxidants – naringenin and naringin, which are known to reduce inflammation and protect healthy cells. When it comes to the liver, these antioxidants may be effective in preventing hepatic fibrosis, a dangerous condition caused by chronic inflammation.
5. Grapes
These fruits are another great source of antioxidants, especially if you reach for the red and purple ones. By reducing inflammation in the body, grapes can protect your liver from harmful conditions that affect its function.
6. Broccoli
High-fiber foods like broccoli have been shown to increase detoxification enzymes that help the liver to do its job and thus keep the organ healthy. Additionally, there’s enough evidence to suggest that broccoli can help to prevent nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. While you’re shopping for broccoli, add some Brussel sprouts as well for double benefits.
7. Fatty Fish
The benefits of fatty fish come from their omega-3 fatty acids. Studies show that these fatty acids help to reduce inflammation, cut down on fat in the liver, and help the liver maintain healthy enzyme levels. Fatty fish are particularly great for people who have nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
8. Nuts
Nuts have a high amount of healthy fats and other nutrients, which reduce inflammation as well as oxidative stress throughout the body.
According to recent studies, a diet that is high in nuts may help to reduce your risk of developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Eating nuts is especially beneficial to men.
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9. Beetroot Juice
This bright red juice with a distinctive taste contains nitrates and antioxidants called betalains, which reduce inflammation as well as oxidative stress throughout the body.
While most studies use the juice for their investigation, there’s no reason you can’t get the same benefits from eating the beets as well.
10. Dark-Colored Berries
Most dark-colored berries such as blueberries, cranberries, and raspberries contain powerful antioxidants that can help to prevent liver damage.
People who eat a lot of these berries may also be less prone to fibrosis of the liver.
Of course, there are a few things to avoid too if you want to keep your liver healthy.
It’s a good idea to cut down on foods that have unhealthy fats, high sugar content, and are highly processed or refined. While it’s okay to have alcohol every now and then, it shouldn’t be a regular part of your diet.
