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Boost Liver Functions

The liver is one of the organs of the digestive system. Its main function is to filter out debris and toxins from the substances entering the body like food. Poor liver functioning impairs health because not enough of the wastes are filtered from the body. A weak or stagnant liver can be invigorated with a detoxification and with supplements that boost the liver's capabilities. A good diet is also necessary for the liver to function well.

  1. Herbs

    • The articleThe Liver Herbs on the Gay Men's Health Crisis website, lists several herbs that are beneficial to the liver. The herbs clean out the liver and this improves the liver's abilities to clean the body. Milk thistle, ginger, dandelion, turmeric and burdock are recommended. Take only 1 herb at a time because these substances are potent. Also start by taking a low dose of the herb. Another option is to digest the herb in the form of tea. See an herbalist for advice on which herb to choose that is best for your needs.

    VItamins

    • Vitamin C, vitamin B-12 and folic acid are the three main vitamins suggested in the article 15 Ways to Love Your Liver by Andrew Saul on the Doctor Yourself website. Vitamin C has been proven to protect the liver in a study at the University of Michigan Medical School. Large amount of the vitamin (about 50.000 mg) can even cure viral hepatitis, the study reports. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that protects the liver from free-radicals that can damage the organ. The vitamin also fights infections that can harm the liver and ruin its effectiveness. B-12 is often thought to improve energy levels in people. Take B-12 via injection and it has a stronger effect on the liver. Folic acid is another B vitamin that aids the liver.

    Healthy Lifestyle

    • Eating a balanced diet is important for optimal liver function. The Mayo Clinic in its article Healthy Lifestyle suggests a diet of varied foods to acquire the nutrients you need. Eat about 20 to 35 g of fiber each day such as green vegetable and fruits, the Mayo Clinic suggests. This food helps the digestive system and brings about frequent bowel movements. Also try to cut down on fat intake. A fatty liver causes congestion and impair liver functioning. Fatty foods also make you overweight. Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out toxins and keep the liver clean. Avoiding alcohol use is also important. Many liver problems are associated with excessive alcohol usage. Exercise is also important for liver functioning. Exercise not only helps to burn fat but it also helps to remove the toxins stored in the fat. According to the Federal Citizen Information Center's article, Be Active Your Way, research shows that exercise can prevent several diseases, including diabetes and heart problems. The Center also recommended brisk walking every day is a beneficial exercise.

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