The liver, which is located on the upper right side of the abdomen, is one of the body's largest organs, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This organ is responsible for filtering waste and toxins in the body, and for aiding in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Some nutritionists believe that adding certain vitamins to your diet may help promote liver health.
Do not use vitamin therapy in place of conventional medical treatment. Talk to your doctor before using vitamins to treat any liver disease or condition.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is an essential vitamin stored in the fat tissues of the body. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this vitamin is responsible for promoting blood clotting and preventing excessive bleeding. It may also help improve bone density and prevent osteoporosis. Vitamin K may help prevent bleeding of the liver, particularly in people with cirrhosis or other liver diseases. This vitamin is found in spinach, kale, strawberries, egg yolks and soybeans.
B Complex
B complex vitamins are comprised of eight separate vitamins that are important for rebuilding healthy cells and the absorption of iron. These vitamins also help the body absorb and utilize sodium and potassium. According to Dr. James F. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," B complex vitamins help promote blood flow to the liver, which may help this organ filter and flush out wastes more efficiently. These vitamins are available in whole grains, egg yolks, fish and walnuts.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is considered an immune-system enhancer and may help protect the liver against excess wastes produced by the body while fighting disease. It is also an antioxidant that may prevent cellular damage to the liver from free radical molecules, according to Dr. Balch. However, doses of more than 10,000 IU per day may be toxic to the liver. This vitamin is found in broccoli, dandelion greens, apricots, cantaloupe and sweet potatoes.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Liver Disease
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin K
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D., and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
