If you want to look after your liver, the first thing you’ll want to do is quit sugar.
Fructose (one half of table sugar) is metabolised almost exclusively by the liver, putting this mighty organ under immense strain when you eat too much. It’s no surprise that studies have shown just two cans of soft drink a day could significantly raise your risk of fatty liver disease.
So you already know to cut out sweets and processed rubbish? Give your liver a little more love with these five foods that are good for your liver.
1. Milk thistle.
Milk thistle, or silymarin, has been used for 2,000 years as a herbal remedy for the liver. Studies have shown that milk thistle can can help improve liver function and increase survival in people with liver disease.
The best way to consume milk thistle is with a medicinal-grade extract – you can pick this up from a qualified naturopath.
2. Coffee.
Hallelujah, your coffee habit is justified! A study of more than 430,000 participants found that drinking two cups of coffee a day reduced risk of liver cirrhosis (potentially fatal scarring) by 44 per cent. Wow.
We recommend drinking coffee with healthy fats and proteins to the slow the caffeine rush. While it may have its benefits, we try not to rely on it for energy either!
3. Dandelion.
Dandelion is another “bitter” that has been used in traditional medicine to improve liver function. While the science is emerging, animal studies have found dandelion could help prevent fatty liver.
Some very hipster cafés sell dandelion coffee, but you can also buy it in supermarkets and health stores. Dandelion leaves are also edible if you’re into foraging – sautée them or add to smoothies for a kick.
4. Broccoli.
A recent study shows that regular consumption of broccoli could reduce the risk of fatty liver disease and liver cancer. Just add it to the list of why we love this veggie.
Broccoli is best served cooked to help with digestion. If you have kids, the best way to chop it finely (they’ll never know).
5. Beetroot.
Again, beetroot has been used for centuries to combat liver disorders. While the science isn’t really there yet, anything with that many antioxidants can’t be bad for your liver (or the rest of your body).
We love beets any which way – raw, cooked, souped. Just make sure you don’t throw the leaves out! Beet greens are actually in the top 10 healthiest foods in the world… and they’re delicious sautéed.
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