The liver is an important organ used in removing waste products from the body and aids in metabolism. The kidneys function to also remove waste products in the blood and filter them out through urine. Both organs work to protect the body from harmful substances found in the environment, foods, drugs and alcohol. It is important to eat foods that support liver and kidney health to avoid liver and kidney diseases.
Fruits and Vegetables
Unprocessed fruits and vegetables contain many healthy compounds that can aid the liver and kidney protect the body. Organic fruits and vegetables may further help the liver. The liver has to process chemicals that are used in conventional growing methods, so choosing organic produce decreases the amount of chemicals the liver has to process. Fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants, which protect the body's cells from damage from free radicals. This protection is important for liver and kidney cells, as there are many free radicals in these organs.
Sulfur Foods
Sulfur-containing foods help the liver, because the liver uses sulfur to detoxify substances like medications, pesticides and other toxins from the environment. Foods rich in sulfur include onions, garlic and cruciferous vegetables. Cruciferous vegetables are broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, collard greens, kale and Brussels sprouts. Eat more of these foods to aid the liver in detoxifying harmful chemicals.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle has become a common supplement for liver health. However, as the Mayo Clinic points out, the effectiveness and safety of milk thistle has not been clarified in research studies. Before taking a supplement for treatment or health purposes, talk to a healthcare professional. Herbal supplements are not well regulated, and the contents could be contaminated with other harmful components. Milk thistle may be called by different names such as lady's or bull thistle, cardo blanco, Cardui mariae fructus or Cardui mariae herba.
Water
The kidneys need an adequate water supply to filter the blood properly. Water intake is also important to maintain the proper amount of blood volume. The kidneys are strained when not enough water is available. Water needs vary according to activity levels, age, health and other factors. General guidelines for water intake are 8 to 9 cups per day. Urine should be clear or slightly pale yellow. It is possible to drink too much water, although rare. If this occurs, the kidneys are not able to get rid of excess water fast enough from the blood. Hyponatremia, too low sodium levels in the blood, will result.
Unprocessed Foods
Processed foods contain added preservatives and artificial ingredients that the liver and kidney have to process. Processed foods usually have added refined sugar. This extra sugar, when processed in the liver, can turn into fat and have undesirable metabolic consequences. Eat minimally processed foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein sources and whole grains. Choose fat sources that have mono- and poly-unsaturated fats, such as olive oil, canola oil, nuts and avocados. Processed or fast foods are typically high in trans and saturated fats and should be consumed rarely. Drink alcoholic drinks occasionally and in moderation to avoid damaging liver and kidney tissue.
