The liver plays the leading role in the process of detoxification of the body, as it turns nutrients into useful substances and toxins into harmless ingredients.
The function of the liver is extremely important for overall health, so in order to improve it, you need to occasionally detox it.
The liver is located in the upper abdomen, just below the diaphragm. Namely, the blood from the digestive organs flows into it, carrying toxins, medications, and nutrients, and it flows bile and blood through to the gallbladder.
It is also vital for the metabolizing of fat, and other metabolic processes in the body. Liver cells produce bile which is transported to the main bile duct, and it carries it to the small intestine, where it has its role in the breakdown and absorption of fats.
This organ also regulates blood sugar levels by storing excess blood sugar as glycogen. So, as you can see the liver is pivotal in running the body, helping you digest and absorb nutrients.
Therefore, the role of the liver is extremely important for our overall health, so here are foods which will help its detoxification and restore its optimal function.
Garlic
Garlic is the most powerful natural antibiotic, and it is abundant in vitamin C, B6, selenium, and arginine.
Selenium boosts the action of antioxidants, and arginine is an amino acid that regulated blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels. Vitamin C protects against cellular oxidation, and vitamin B6 acts as an anti-inflammatory.
Turmeric
The active ingredient of turmeric, curcumin, has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, prevents the conversion of toxins and alcohol into harmful chemicals that cause liver damage and rejuvenates liver cells. It cleanses the liver and boosts the bile flow.
Grapefruit
This citrus fruit is packed with vitamin C, which prevents cellular oxidation, and glutathione helps the liver to produce detox enzymes. A single fruit contains 70 milligrams of glutathione, which helps the tissue repair, and the production of important chemicals and proteins.
Matcha Green Tea
Green tea has potent anticancer properties and supports the detoxification and function of the liver.
It has concentrated compounds which significantly boost the production of a group of key detoxification enzymes in people with reduced levels of these beneficial proteins.
Researchers have discovered that catechins in amounts equal to that found in 8-16 cups of green tea supported the production of the enzymes, which are members of the glutathione S-transferase (GST) family, by 80%.
This means that the daily consumption of this tea protects against the effects of cancer-causing toxins.
Beets
Beets are a rich source of betaine and polyphenols, which boost the ability of the liver to produce glutathione and superoxide dismutase, which are key factors in daily detoxification and prevent damage due to toxic chemicals, like carcinogens.
The antioxidant found in beets, Betalains, has strong anti-cancer effects, while the beet juice prevents skin and lung cancer.
Cruciferous Vegetables
These veggies prevent liver damage due to free radicals and support the production of detoxification enzymes. Therefore, increase the intake of cabbage, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts.
Avocados
Avocados are loaded with glutathione, which is necessary for liver detoxification, and vitamin C and vitamin E which act as antioxidants and prevent free radical damage. Moreover, the vitamin E and vitamin K have potent anti-inflammatory properties and thus protect the liver.
Bonus detox food: Walnuts
Walnuts are packed with antioxidants, arginine, glutathione, and omega-3 fatty acids, so they effectively neutralize free radical damage, and prevent fat buildup in the liver. Walnuts also help the formation of strong cell membranes around the liver cells.