The liver does not get as much attention in the media as the brain or the heart and many people may be aware of its incredible importance to the body and to overall health. The liver, however, has many important functions, including helping to regulate blood sugar levels and remove toxins and other unwanted substances from the body. Good bodily health is impossible without a functioning and healthy liver.
Fortunately, there are foods that people can include in their diet daily to help keep the liver cleansed and working at its best. None of these foods are exotic or unusual and many are already in most American homes. But in the long-term they can go a long way to preserving the health of the liver and thus the entire body.
Lemons
With all the talk about the benefits of lemon water, it should come as no surprise that lemons should head this list. A glass of lemon water, taken first thing in the morning, can stimulate the flow of bile and this can not only aid digestion but help to cleanse the liver thoroughly and avoid build-up of toxins that can interfere with liver function. (1)
Parsley
This leafy green herbs is good for more than just flavoring meat or potato dishes! Parsley has long been valued for its ability to purify the blood, removing toxins from the body’s system and decreasing the work load on the liver, as well as cleansing it and support its healthy function. (2)
Beets
Borscht, anyone? This deep purple root vegetable is incredibly high in beta-carotene. Beta carotene is an antioxidant also found in vegetables like carrots and it is well known for its ability to detoxify and cleanse the liver as well as reducing oxidative stress or damage to the liver cells caused by free radicals. (3)
Onions
This members of the allium family contain Sulphur-based compounds that are excellent for removing toxins from the liver and for restoring the health and function of the liver cells and prevent cirrhosis, a condition where damaged liver cells form scar tissue deposits and are thus not able to function properly, which can lead to a variety of health problems. (4)
Dandelion
Dandelions are usually thought of as being an herb for the kidneys, but they are also great for the liver, helping to easily rid it of toxic build-up without straining or stressing it and supporting overall good liver function. (5)
None of these foods are exotic or difficult to find (with the exception of dandelions, which are best harvested in the spring and in an area free of pesticides!). But consuming such foods daily can really help maintain the long-term health and function of the liver – and thus the entire body as well.
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