Keep your liver healthy by eating fresh foods today!
The liver is the largest gland in the body and is an organ that we cannot live without. One very important function of the liver (“Viral Hepatitis: Know your ABCs! – Part 1”) is to detoxify the blood to keep the body free of toxins. If you accidentally ingest any harmful substance, the liver will break it down and help to clear it from the body. The liver also produces bile which is important in the digestion of fats in the digestive system and also stores glycogen which will provide the body with a quick energy boost when blood glucose levels drop.
How can you ensure that your liver stays in tip-top condition? Here are some foods that can nourish and protect (“5 Ways to Protect Your Liver”) your liver:
Apples
Apples are rich in malic acid which supports energy production in the body. It is also a natural cleansing nutrient that removes toxin from the blood and helps in liver detoxification. If you can, choose organic apples instead of conventionally grown apples which contains pesticide residue.
Avocados
Avocados are high in glutathione, an important antioxidant in your body which neutralises free radicals and maintain the body’s immune system. The liver is often bombarded with toxins and harmful chemicals that need to be filtered from the body. Consume avocados to help in the detoxification of the liver.
Beets
Beets contain important nutrients like pectin which is a soluble form of fiber that aids in digestive health. Beets are also high in betaine, a type of amino acid which assists in liver detox function by breaking down and removing fats, as well as help to prevent bodily damage by disposing toxins that are stored in the liver.
Fish
Fish is an excellent source of protein which provides the amino acids for detoxification of the liver. This protein rich food is also high in omega 3 fatty acids which have anti-inflammatory properties for people with raised liver enzymes. Consume tuna, salmon, mackerel and sardines for your share of protein, or fish oil if you do not consume fish at least three times a week.
Garlic
Garlic contains allicin and selenium, compounds which assist to cleanse the liver. Garlic is also high in sulphur, a mineral which makes up amino acids to create protein for cells and tissues. This mineral helps the body to remove toxins and heavy metals from the liver.
