As the human body’s largest organ, the liverhassome pretty importantfunctions – 500 of them, to be exact. It makesbile to help break down food, stores nutrients and vitaminsand fightsinfections and disease,to name three.With such a heavy workload, it’s no surprise the liverneeds a lot ofvitamins, minerals and antioxidants tokeep itself going. The good news isby eating and drinking certain foodswe can ensure it gets them.Here are fiveof our top suggestions:
Cruciferous veges
Veges such asbroccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, cabbage and kalecontainglutathione, whichkickstartstheliver’stoxin cleansing enzymes of the liver. Eatingthemwill increase production of glucosinolate in your system, which helps flush out carcinogens and other toxins.
Oliveoil
Yes, it's a fat, butit’s generally considered a healthy one.It has been shown to decrease the levels of fat in the liver. Other cold-pressed organic oils such as hemp and flaxseedhave similar benefits.
Green tea
Evidence has shown that it may have benefits for the liver. A study based in Japan*found that drinking 5-10 cups of green tea a daycan lead toimproved blood markers of liver health, thanks tothecatechin(a plant antioxidant) itcontains. Green tea is packed full of this plant antioxidant.
Citrusfruit
Citrus fruits stimulate the liver andhelp it turnstoxic materials into substances that can be absorbed by water. Grapefruit isespecially goodas it containsnaringin and naringenin, which are antioxidants that reduce inflammation toprotect the liver from injury. Grapefruit can, however, interact with some medications, so it's recommended you talk to your doctor if you have concerns.
Citrus fruits are also packed with vitamin C, so they’re great for keeping colds at bay.
Garlic
Garlic isfull ofsulphur, which activates liver enzymes that help your body flush out toxins.It also has a lot ofselenium, a vitalmicronutrient that helpsboost the natural antioxidant enzyme levels in our livers.
