The liver is the powerhouse organ in the body. It’s because the liver completes essential functions in the body that no other organ can perform, that’s why you have to take care of it.
So, what does the liver do, exactly? The main job of this powerhouse organ is to filter the blood coming from the digestive tract, before sending the blood to the rest of the body. Moreover, it detoxifies chemicals and metabolized drugs to ensure your body is safe. That’s a lot, right? In summary, the liver is one organ that we cannot live without. Due to that, it is vital to fuel it with the right foods and ensure we live a healthy lifestyle.
What role does food play in protecting the liver?
In general, food plays a significant role in liver health. Below are eleven types of food and the roles they play in protecting the liver to make sure it’s healthy.
- Coffee
If you are looking for a beverage that quenches your thirst and still protects your liver, then go for coffee. Studies have shown that drinking coffee protects your liver from diseases, even people who already have problems with the organ. On top of that, it lowers the risk of getting cirrhosis in people with chronic liver disease.
- Grapefruit
The fruit contains antioxidants – naringin and naringenin – that naturally protect the liver. The protective effects of the grapefruit occur in two ways, which are protecting cells and reducing inflammation. Because of this, these antioxidants have also been found to have the ability to reduce the development of hepatic fibrosis, a condition in which there is an excessive build-up of connective tissue in the liver.
- Blueberries and cranberries
The distinctive color that you see in berries is as result of the antioxidants and anthocyanins. In addition, these compounds not only give a distinctive color but also offer health benefits to the liver. The antioxidants present in berries slow the development of fibrosis and lesions. Because of this they improve the antioxidant and immune responses of the liver.
- Oatmeal
If you are looking for an easy way of adding fiber to your diet, consume oatmeal. The specific fibers found in oatmeal and oats contain compounds known as beta-glucans. These compounds reduce the amount of fat stored in the liver. However, more clinical studies are necessary to confirm this.
- Prickly pear
It is a popular type of edible cactus. It’s long been used in traditional medicine as a treatment for liver disease, ulcers, fatigue, and wounds. Furthermore, it protects the liver from damage caused by alcohol consumption.
- Beetroot juice
It is a source of antioxidants and nitrates called betalains, therefore it promotes heart health and reduces inflammation and oxidative damage in the liver. The antioxidants do that while also increasing the liver’s natural detoxification enzymes.
- Cruciferous vegetables
Some of the cruciferous vegetables include cabbage, horseradish, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. They are known for their distinctive taste and high fiber content, that’s why these vegetables support the liver’s ability to detoxify the many less-healthy things we consume or get into our body every day.
- Fatty fish
It contains omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and lower risk of heart disease. That’s not all; the fats found in fatty fish help to prevent fat from building up in the liver, improve insulin resistance, and fight inflammation.
- Nuts
Nuts contain high levels of antioxidant vitamin E and fats, which are beneficial plant compounds. Nuts have been associated with improved liver enzyme levels in patients suffering from NAFLD (Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease).
- Olive oil
It is one of the healthiest fat that comes with several health benefits and positive effects on metabolic and heart health therefore it raises the levels of a protein linked with positive metabolic effects. When it comes to the liver, it reduces fat accumulation, which improves better blood flow.
- Grapes
Red and purple grapes contain several beneficial plant compounds. One of the famous plant compounds is resveratrol, therefor these compounds prevents damage and increases antioxidant levels as well as lower inflammation. Recent studies have found out that people with NAFLD can supplement with grape seed extract to improve the liver function.
Final Thoughts
The liver is an essential organ with many essential functions, therefore, it is worth to do anything to protect it. Food is one easy way you can use to protect the liver. Try and incorporate one of these foods into your diet, and you’ll indeed keep your liver functioning at its best.