The liver is a vital organ responsible for many essential functions in the human body. It metabolizes nutrients, detoxifies harmful substances, stores important compounds, produces bile for digestion, and contributes to immune function.
Matthew Scarfo, a Nutrition Expert at Lift Vault, shares the importance of a healthy liver and what food and drinks you can introduce into your diet to support its function.
“Liver-friendly foods deliver several types of nutrients that are proven to help support and promote the health of your liver. As the liver plays a central role in digestion, metabolism, detoxification, and nutrient storage, it’s recommended to consume foods that support its function.
“Consuming a diet rich in liver-friendly foods can help support and maintain the health of your liver for several reasons. These include, supporting liver health to prevent liver diseases such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
“A liver-friendly diet can also reduce the risk of liver damage from excessive alcohol consumption or exposure to harmful substances.
“Having a healthy liver can also help regulate blood sugar levels by storing and releasing glucose as needed. Therefore, consuming foods will help to support liver health and contribute to stable blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of insulin resistance and diabetes.
“Omega-3 fatty acids are extremely beneficial for liver function, as Omega-3s help reduce inflammation, which can protect the liver from damage. Therefore, it is recommended to eat foods such as salmon, mackerel, and other fatty fish.
“Leafy greens such as spinach and kale are also beneficial, as they are rich in chlorophyll which can help to neutralize toxins and protect the liver.
“Professionals also recommend ginger, as it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce oxidative stress in the liver.
“When consumed in moderation, several studies suggest that coffee may have protective effects on liver health and is associated with a reduced risk of liver diseases such as fatty liver disease.
“Berries are also recommended in a live-friendly diet, as they are high in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver.”
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