The liver metabolizes fats and carbohydrates, produces chemicals to assist the body with blood clotting and secretes bile that helps absorb important vitamins. The liver also rids the body of external toxins. Liver health can be improved by taking specific vitamins and eating certain foods. Before trying a new diet or taking supplements, consult your doctor.
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 assists the liver in metabolizing carbohydrates and fats. It is stored in the liver. When B-12 is deficient, the liver may have difficulty doing its job. Vitamin B-12 is found in animal sources such as red meat, dairy, seafood and organ meats. Therefore, vegetarians and vegans are often deficient in vitamin B-12, but it can be taken in the form of supplements and injections. Always consult a doctor prior to taking vitamin B-12 because it can decrease the absorption of certain antibiotics.
Dandelion
Dandelion, known to most people as a weed, is an herb commonly used to optimize liver function. Health care providers clinically use dandelion root to promote liver detoxification and dandelion leaves to support kidney function, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Dandelion can be eaten fresh or consumed as a tea or in pill form. Dandelion promotes detoxification and excretion, so consult a doctor before using this herb, especially if you are using any prescription medications.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle can be taken to promote liver health. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, it is an herbal remedy used to protect the liver from toxins such as medications that have the potential to be harmful in high doses, like acetaminophen. Milk thistle is also a powerful antioxidant which protects the body from cancer causing chemicals called free radicals. It is commonly found in a capsule form. Even though milk thistle is well-studied, a doctor should always be consulted before taking any herb. Milk thistle can interfere with the metabolism of certain drugs.
Eat a Well-balanced Diet
Consuming too many toxins will impede the liver's ability to function properly. Alcohol, certain medications and processed foods can be toxic substances to the liver. Eating too many trans fatty acids, found largely in processed foods, may also put you at risk of developing liver problems. Consume a well-balanced diet and limit toxic substances to keep the liver healthy. Eat vegetables and fruits in abundance, with moderate amounts of poultry and seafood. Limit red meats.
