5 LIVER LOVING FOODS

5 LIVER LOVING FOODS

Your liver is the single most important detox organ in the body. The liver works non-stop to remove every toxin we expose our body to from the air we breathe, to the water we drink, the food we eat, and the chemicals we internalize from beauty products, plastics, household cleaners and more. Of course the best bet at a healthy liver is to eat clean organic plant based foods, use only coconut oil or natural products on your body, and avoid toxic household cleaners. It is also a great idea to do a juice cleanse regularly to give your liver an opportunity to take a break. But you can also provide ongoing support for your liver by eating foods that provide important nutrients specifically helpful to this incredible organ.

1. Artichokes

Artichokes help the liver increase it’s production of bile. Bile helps break down foods so that your body can assimilate the nutrients. Artichokes also contain fiber, protein, magnesium, folate, and potassium.

2. Asparagus

Researchers at the Institute of Medical Science and Jeju National University in Korea found that “asparagus can help alleviate alcohol hangover and protect liver cells.” Asparagus assists the liver filter out toxic materials in the food and drinks we consume. Asparagus is loaded with nutrients. A small ten ounce serving provides you with healthy amounts of selenium, zinc, calcium, copper, manganese, and folate. Asparagus has also been shown to reduce risk of cancer, and contains isothiocyanates, indoles, and sulforaphane, powerful compounds that promote cellular rejuvenation.

3. Cabbage

There are two main detox pathways in the liver, and the mineral sulfur is needed for the cytochrome P450 detoxification pathways in the liver, and to bind toxic metals. Most people do not get enough organically bound sulfur in their diets. Non protein-bound sulfur is critical for liver health, and is found in high levels in the cabbage family including cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower.

4. Carrot Juice

Carrot juice has an affinity for the liver, and is used with the Gerson Therapy protocol for that reason. The highly bioavailable calcium present in carrot juice is highly beneficial for the liver.

5. WatercressGive your liver a big cleansing sweep with some watercress. Watercress is perfect to add to smoothies or salads, or to juice once you acquire the taste for it. Watercress helps release enzymes in the liver that clean it out and help rid the body of toxic buildup.