Just like the kidneys, heart or brain, the liver is a very vital organ in the body which has to be in optimum working condition for a person to be healthy. It carries out a lot of important functions, such as metabolic processes in the body, absorption of nutrients in the small intestine, creation of blood clotting proteins, and production of bile. These are just a few of the processes that the liver carries out as it does way many more functions that are crucial for the body. Since it is one of the major organs it is important to take care of the liver and cut out any bad habits that may cause harmful effects to it. In the same token, we need to take up beneficial habits such as heating healthy to boost liver health. Below we have a list of some of the foods that you can eat to ensure that your liver is in tip-top shape.
1. Bright berries
Berries such as blueberries and cranberries are essential for the proper functioning of your liver since they contain beneficial compounds known as antioxidants. These help to protect the body against free radicals which are notorious for the destruction of body cells and tissues. To ensure that your liver is healthy you should, therefore, incorporate a cup of these berries into your diet every day. One fun way to achieve this is by taking some with yogurt which is also generally good for your body as it contains ‘good bacteria’ that does wonders for your gut.
2.Coffee
Taking a cup of coffee every morning does seem to have more benefits than most people are aware of. Not only does it keep you alert and gives you the necessary kick to start your day, but coffee is also beneficial to your liver. Coffee can lower the risk of diseases such as fatty liver. This is possible because it ensures that the body does not accumulate fat in the organ. You can read more about this kind of disease and how to prevent it on Fatty Liver Diary and get all the information that you can which will assist you. Coffee is also said to lower the risk of liver cancer as well. Moreover, it can reduce inflammation in the liver and just like the berries, contains antioxidants which will reduce radicals in the body.
3. Green vegetables
Diet experts and nutritionists always stress the fact that we need to incorporate a lot of green leafy vegetables into our diet if we wish to remain healthy, strong and have glowing skin. This is true and is necessary even for the health of our vital organs such as the liver. To be specific, green vegetables such as broccoli and Brussel sprouts are the best for the liver as they are said to contain enzymes that help the organ carry out its detoxification function smoothly. This helps to relieve a lot of liver stress and hence lowers the chance of liver failure by a large extent. You should thus make an effort to always include items such as kale and cauliflower in your meals for the benefit of your liver.
4. Fatty fish
Some examples of fatty fish include sardines, salmon and some forms of tuna. These contain omega 3 acids which are known to promote not only liver health but reduce the risk of heart disease as well. Omega 3 acids help to reduce inflammation in the liver and also prevent the accumulation of fat in the liver. Consuming fatty fish will thus ensure that all the liver cells are healthy and operational.
5. Almond nuts
Almonds are rich in vitamin E which is also an antioxidant and will lower the presence of radicals in the liver, hence reducing liver damage. Moreover, studies have shown that vitamin E helps to protect the liver against diseases such as fatty liver disease. The great thing about almonds or any nuts rich in Vitamin E is how they can be easily incorporated into your diet. You can add them to your salads, pies or even snack on them as they are when you are feeling a bit hungry.
6. Green tea
Different types of tea contain a lot of benefits, such as chamomile tea which is known for its ability to calm down the body systems and help one relax. Green tea is wonderful as it contains a load of antioxidants which can help prevent the build-up of fat in the liver and also lower the risk of liver cancer.