Did you know the liver has over 500 essential tasks it carries out on a day-to-day basis? It plays an incredibly important role in our body so today on The Fruitful Life we want to highlight a few ways in which we can support the liver. But first let's break down a few of the main functions of the liver....
What are the main roles?
The liver is the largest internal organ, and it sits mainly in the upper right portion of your abdomen. It is also considered a gland because it makes proteins and hormones necessary for other parts of the body. Although the liver has many functions, one of the most important ones is to clean out toxins from the blood. Furthermore, it acts as a blood recycler and breaks down damaged blood cells. The liver also regularly produces bile, a chemical that helps break down fat into energy for the body to use. It metabolizes carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to allow for the bioavailability of the nutrients. Now that we know a few of the roles the liver plays in our overall health, lets discuss a few ways in which we can support it….
Focus on Whole Foods
A diet focused on a variety of colorful foods is a great way to optimize the organ’s function. Focus on eating vegetables, protein (animal or plant), fiber-rich food, and fruit. Bitter foods like dark leafy greens, beetroots, or drinks like dandelion tea or celery juice are great ways to boost bile production for the liver.
Although we all enjoy fast and convenient food from time to time, it’s important to not make it a regular part of your diet. Processed foods are high in seed oils, trans fats, and high-fructose corn syrup which may damage the liver. Soda and other high sugar drinks are something to avoid or drink in moderation as well to not overload the liver!
Herbal Support
Herbs have been traditionally used for centuries to aid in healing and recovery. Herbs like milk thistle are touted for their beneficial effect on liver health. Milk thistle, and the main active component silymarin, supports the body’s natural detoxification process. Life Extension’s European Milk Thistle offers a phospholipid blend to enhance absorption and encourage healthy cell division within the liver!
Another simple way to incorporate herbs into your routine is in the form of a tea! Now Foods Dandelion Tea contains organic dandelion leaf to aid in cleansing the body. Also, Bravo Tea Reishi Liver Health features a blend of herbs such as astragalus and white peony root, paired with reishi mushroom for overall liver health.
Supplemental Support
A proper diet along with daily movement and sleep are necessary for a healthy liver. However, supplements can be a great aid to those looking for some extra help. One example of this is Now Foods Liver Refresh which features 10 synergistic ingredients and an herbal blend. It contains a unique blend of amino acids, antioxidants such as glutathione, and herbs like organic turmeric to support balanced liver functioning.
For increased liver detoxification, Dr. Mercola Liver Support combines N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) with milk thistle and organic broccoli sprouts. NAC comes from the amino acid L-cysteine and is used by the body to build antioxidants. Broccoli sprouts contain high levels of sulforaphane and support your body’s normal detoxification process. This is a great option to take for those looking to combine a helpful supplement with healthy diet and lifestyle practices for maximum liver support!
We hope you enjoyed learning more about the liver and all that it does for us! If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comments below or visit us in-stores for assistance!
