As the second largest organ in the human body, the liver is instrumental in cleansing the blood, producing digestive bile and storing energy in the form of glycogen. According to the American Liver Foundation, the liver weighs approximately 3 lbs. and is responsible for the majority of bodily detoxification. Avoiding alcohol and managing your prescription medications can significantly reduce damage to your liver. In fact, eating certain foods can actually improve its function.
Garlic and Onions
The sulfur present in garlic and onions is essential in detoxifying a variety of chemicals introduced in the body through prescription drugs, pesticides and other environmental toxins, according to Stephen Stoker in his book "General, Organic and Biological Chemistry." Both garlic and onions are part of the allium family and are also notable for their antioxidant properties, particularly in regards to cancer. Both these foods help enhance the detoxifying capabilities of the liver, Stoker notes.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Similar to garlic and onions, cruciferous vegetables also contain sulfur compounds that help fortify the function of the liver. The International Agency for Research on Cancer say in its book "Cruciferous Vegetables, Isothiocyanates and Indoles" that cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts consistently inhibited the development of liver tumors and encouraged repair to damaged liver tissue. Additional cruciferous vegetables include arugula, bok choy, broccoli, kale, mustard greens and turnips.
Milk Thistle
In their book "Biodiversity and Human Health," Francesca Grifo and Joshua Rosenthal recommend consuming milk thistle seeds to protect against liver damage and facilitate liver cell regeneration due to damage by toxins and diseases like hepatitis and cirrhosis. This herb has a long-standing traditional use for treatment of common liver ailments, the authors note. The presence of the compound silymarin is responsible for improving the liver's function by stimulating detoxification and protecting the organ from damage as a powerful antioxidant.
References
- American Liver Foundation: Liver Health
- "Cruciferous Vegetables, Isothiocyanates and Indoles"; International Agency for Research on Cancer; 2004
- "General, Organic and Biological Chemistry"; Stephen Stoker; 2009
- "Biodiversity and Human Health"; Francesca Grifo and Joshua Rosenthal; 2007
