The liver works tirelessly to cleanse the body of toxins, chemicals, drugs, wastes and dead or damaged cells. It also plays important roles in metabolizing the food we eat and storing essential vitamins and minerals. With all of those responsibilities, the liver can become overloaded and congested, causing symptoms such as allergies, fatigue, headaches, indigestion and bloating. Boost liver health and function with regular liver detox foods and treatments.
Functions
The liver is the largest internal organ in the body and a primary cleanser. It filters more than 1.4 liters of blood every minute and contains Kuppfer cells that destroy bacteria in the blood. The liver also produces and secretes almost a liter of bile every day, which is necessary for the digestion and absorption of fats.
Signs
The liver can become overworked and exhausted from overeating, too many fat-rich, processed or unhealthy foods, toxins, medications and stress. According to Dr. Mark Percival, author of "Phytonutrients and Detoxification," signs that the liver is functioning sluggishly include acne, skin rashes, red or watery eyes, insomnia, muscle and neck pain, headaches, indigestion and stomach pain, bloating, fatigue and low energy.
Juice Detoxing
According to Dr. Sandra Cabot, physician and nutrition author, raw fruit and vegetable juices help to cleanse and re-energize your liver. The pectin in apple juice helps to remove excess cholesterol and heavy metals from the digestive tract, reducing the workload of the liver. Try a simple three-day detox by drinking a glass of freshly juiced apple and beet juice before every meal. Also try drinking a glass of water with one to three teaspoons of fresh lemon juice every morning before breakfast. This helps to flush and clear the liver.
Detox Foods
Foods rich in antioxidants help to stimulate and cleanse the liver and remove toxins from the body. Dr. Percival recommends adding high antioxidant foods such as beets, eggplant, carrots, red onion, artichokes, grapefruit and grapes to your diet. Other foods that promote liver health include cruciferous vegetables, onions and the spice turmeric. Also add more ginger, which increases blood circulation for better removal of toxins, and garlic, which is rich in the mineral selenium for liver health. According to a study published in "Digestive Diseases and Sciences," people with a selenium deficiency have greater risks of liver problems and disease.
Daily Detox
Regular detoxing helps to keep the liver healthy and decongested. Daily ways to improve liver health recommended by Dr. Cabot include drinking plenty of water and getting fresh air, as well as regular exercise that makes you sweat a little. She also suggests adding a cup of bath salts to a warm water bath to help draw out toxins as you soak.
Member Comments