The liver is the largest organ in the human body. Its main responsibility is to detoxify everything that the body processes from elements absorbed through the skin, food and air. The liver's function is to fortify nutrients in the muscles, hormones and immune system. It also assists with energy production and promotes blood clotting functions. According to the American Liver Association, the liver destroys elements, metabolize alcohol, resists infection and works to neutralize the bloodstream. A diet that supports healthy liver functions include the addition of mineral, vitamins and other vital elements.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants maintain the integrity of the liver by helping to fight free radical damage. Free radicals are responsible for tissue damage and aging. Foods containing antioxidants also create detoxifying enzymes that filter alcohol, drugs and environmental toxins. Cruciferous vegetables and green leafy vegetables that are high in antioxidants include cabbage, spinach, kale, broccoli, cauliflower and Swiss chard, according to the University of Illinois Medical Center. Adding artichokes to a diet helps detoxify the blood, lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels, and remove metabolic wastes to encourage liver health.
Vitamins
Foods containing essential minerals and vitamins are important for sustaining a healthy liver. Key elements to promote healthy liver functions include the vitamin B complex, C, E, zinc, magnesium and zinc. The American Liver Foundation recommends foods containing folate, flavonoids, sulfate, selenium and iron to maintain liver health. Foods rich in vitamin C include collard greens, mustard greens, red cabbage, spinach, oranges and parsley. B complex is found in sunflower seeds, brown rice, pine nuts, almonds and peanuts. Vitamin E is found in avocados, asparagus, tomatoes, whole grains and leafy green vegetables. Choline is found in cabbage, fish and brown rice. Magnesium-rich foods include nuts, whole grains and green leafy vegetables. Zinc is found in cheese, milk and peanuts.
Complex Carbohydrates and Fiber
Eating complex carbohydrates, such as wild rice, provides vitamins that supports optimum liver health by preventing fatty deposits from forming and progressing. Fiber, such bran and oats, is important to maintaining a healthy liver because of its ability to transport waste products from the human body. Fiber also helps to eliminate harmful toxins that may affect liver functions, according to the Diet Channel.
