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What to Eat to Help the Liver

The liver is an important organ. It stores vitamins and minerals, cleanses toxins from your body and regulates your cholesterol level. The enzyme systems that control all of your body functions are created in the liver. Alcohol, tobacco and a poor diet can put strain on your liver. Eating a healthy diet containing high-antioxidant foods can help reduce this strain.

  1. Vegetables

    • Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage are good for the liver because they contain lots of antioxidants that help detoxify the liver. They contain glucosinolates that help the liver produce enzymes needed to detoxify itself. They also neutralize toxins such as nitrosamines found in cigarette smoke. Carrots and beets contain beta-carotene, which can reduce the damage caused by free radicals in the liver. Bitter vegetables such as dandelion, chicory and gourds help the production of bile in the liver. Artichokes also help bile flow.

    Fruits

    • High-antioxidant fruits such as blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, plums and prunes are good for the liver. Their antioxidant properties protect the liver from free radicals. Apples are high in pectin, which reduces the amount of toxins that make it to the liver. Oranges, cantaloupe, pears and grapefruits are also naturally high in antioxidants.

    Herbs

    • Garlic contains many liver-cleansing vitamins and minerals. It contains allicin, which is a sulphur-based compound that aids the liver in the detoxification process. Garlic helps the liver rid itself of metals like lead and mercury. It also helps the liver cleanse itself of surplus estrogen and nitrogen. These metals and hormones can contribute to liver cancer in some cases. Onions are a good source of glutathione, an amino acid that helps with bile. Herbs such as echinacea, dandelion and milk thistle help the liver cleanse blood.

    Carbohydrates and Proteins

    • It is important to watch your intake of carbohydrates and proteins. Brown rice is a good choice because it contains selenium, which is a natural antioxidant. Lean proteins are good for the liver, but should be eaten in moderation. Soy beans contain lecithin, which helps reduce the fat level in the liver. Lean meats such as chicken, fish and lean red meat are good for the liver. Non-meat proteins such as eggs, beans and lentils are also useful for detoxifying the liver.

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