Our liver is constantly working to process the many toxins we encounter daily, through our diet, the environment, and even from what we put on our skin. Responsible for over 400 functions in the body, it’s important to give this hard-working organ the support it needs.
5 Surprising Foods to Support Your Liver
- Artichokes
Artichokes are high in fibre and a great source of vitamin C, folate and magnesium. They also contain a potent compound known as cynarin, which supports our liver by stimulating both the production and release of bile. A healthy bile flow is essential for our digestion as well as the elimination of waste products from the body. Enjoy artichokes steamed, roasted or sautéed in salads, pasta dishes, or own their own.
- Turmeric
Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Turmeric’s active compound curcumin, is known to help support healthy cholesterol levels in the body by assisting the clearance of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol from the liver. Curcumin also supports healthy bile production in the gall bladder needed for good digestion. Fresh turmeric or it’s powder can be used in soups, smoothies, stir-fries and curries. Try juicing fresh turmeric root along with some other fresh fruits and vegetables for an extra antioxidant kick!
- Brussels Sprouts
Despite their smell, Brussels sprouts are really, very good for us. Rich in sulfur, vitamin C and phytonutrients known as glucosinolates, Brussels sprouts provide the raw materials needed to help support our liver’s phase 1 and 2 detoxification processes. The good news is that you can avoid smelling the house out by simply not boiling them! Try roasting or pan-frying Brussels sprouts instead, with some balsamic vinegar and honey to make a delicious side salad.
- Dandelion
Surprisingly, you can use these sometimes troublesome weeds to give your liver a bit of love. High in vitamins A and C and rich in the essential nutrient choline, dandelion helps to support our liver by stimulating bile and gastric juices, aiding our digestion and natural detoxification processes. Enjoy fresh dandelion leaves in salads, blended into pesto, or sautéed with garlic. The root of the dandelion, when roasted, can also be enjoyed as a herbal tea.
- Beetroot
The earthy and brightly coloured beetroot is rich in antioxidants and compounds known to help nourish the liver and support blood purification. Beetroots provides a great source of betaine and betalains, which can assist the liver in the elimination of toxins from the body. Enjoy beetroot raw or roasted in salads, freshly juiced or blended into smoothies or freshly made hummus!