The world’s best filter isn’t in a photo app on your smartphone, nor in your city’s waste treatment center. The most sophisticated filtering system on the planet is actually present inside of you – your liver.
You can’t really overestimate the importance of keeping your liver in good shape. It’s a powerhouse of processing, manufacturing, and storage of basically everything you put in your body including food, alcohol, medicines, and toxins. With that being said, excess alcohol, erratic eating patterns, processed foods and drinks, over-medicating and recreational substance abuse can all add a huge strain on liver function. That’s why liver problems, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, affect 1 out of 3 adults, and are increasingly common in young people

There are multiple nutrients considered essential for liver health but there is no need to micromanage your diet to get them. Simply eating a varied diet full of unprocessed foods will do the job perfectly well. Here we’re just going to explore some foods that do give the extra edge in terms of liver health.

1-Coffee

When you drink a cup of high-quality black coffee, your liver thanks you. Coffee has multiple health benefits including the ability to decrease inflammation and reduce the buildup of fat in the liver. For those of you that aren’t so keen on coffee then both black and green tea can provide similar results.

2-Grapefruit

The positive and protective effects of grapefruit are shown to protect liver cells and reduce inflammation. However, Please be aware that because of its influence on the liver that grapefruit juice is to be avoided with certain medications. Make sure you check with your medical provider first

3-Beetroot

We don’t think we’ve written about a food more than beetroot. Including beetroot in your diet may help protect the liver from oxidative damage and inflammation. One of my favorite recipes is a simple grated beetroot and apple salad with a simple apple cider vinegar dressing. The combination of the two are protective and will help keep lipid levels in the liver in check.

4-Cruciferous vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables include things like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and mustard greens. These have been shown to increase natural detoxification enzymes and protect the liver from damage. Some of these veggies aren’t very popular among the crowds. Try gently roasting them with garlic for 20 minutes to bring out the nutty flavor and crunchy texture.

Please be aware that if you have existing thyroid issues then you should always cook cruciferous vegetables and avoid having them raw.

5- Artichokes

Two antioxidants found in artichokes have been shown to improve liver health by facilitating the removal of toxins. Aside from that, artichokes are loaded with nutrients and artichoke extract is well researched as a supplement to support liver health.

Don’t wait for your liver to act up before you pay it attention. Get checked and act. Early intervention or a preventive approach will serve you well.