The liver plays key roles in metabolizing the food we eat, producing energy and storing essential vitamins and minerals. However, the liver can become overwhelmed and congested resulting in decreased function such as slowed blood filtration and decreased production of the digestive enzyme, bile. Organic food is free of many pesticides and chemicals and can help to improve liver health and treat sluggish and poor liver function.
Function
The liver, the largest internal organ in the body, works tirelessly to remove toxins, chemicals, drugs, wastes and dead or damaged cells as a primary cleanser for the body. This organ filters more than 1.4 liters of blood every minute and contains specialized Kupffer cells that destroy bacteria that invade the body. The liver produces and secretes up to 1 liter of bile every day, to aid the digestion and absorption of fats.
Signs
The liver becomes congested and exhausted due to overeating, a diet high in fatty and processed foods, toxins, medications and stress. Dr. Mark Percival, author of "Phytonutrients and Detoxification," reports that signs of sluggish liver function includes symptoms such as skin rashes, red or watery eyes, insomnia, muscle and neck pain, headaches, indigestion and stomach pain, bloating, fatigue and low energy.
Organic Juicing
Dr. Sandra Cabot, physician and nutrition author, recommends raw organic fruit and vegetable juices help cleanse and re-energize the liver. Apple juice in particular contains pectin, which helps remove excess cholesterol and heavy metals from the digestive tract, reducing the workload of the liver. Cabot recommends a simple three-day detoxification by drinking a glass of freshly juiced apple and beet juice before every meal. A glass of water with 1 to 2 tsp. of fresh lemon juice every morning helps flush and clear the liver.
Antioxidant Foods
Antioxidant-rich foods help stimulate healthy liver function and remove toxins from the body. Percival recommends high antioxidant organic foods such as eggplant, beets, carrots, artichokes, grapefruit and grapes to the diet. Other organic foods that improve liver health include cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower, as well as onions and the spice turmeric. Garlic is also important for liver health as it contains the mineral selenium. According to a study published in "Digestive Diseases and Sciences," a selenium deficiency in the diet can increase the risks of liver problems and disease.
Reduce Toxins
Eating organic foods helps to avoid pesticides that are on and in produce such as vegetables and fruit. Organic meat, meat products, milk and dairy also reduce the amounts of chemical hormones and antibiotics the liver must remove the body.
Member Comments