Your liver is your largest internal organ, performing more than 500 functions in your body. It is therefore vitally important that you consume the right foods to maintain a healthy liver.
Incorporating these foods into your diet can help keep your liver functioning at its best:
1. Grapefruit
This bitter citrus fruit is high in vitamin C and other antioxidants that are known to protect your liver. These antioxidants help reduce inflammation and prevent damage to cells.
2. Avocado
Avocados have a healthy fat content and are rich in fibre, which can help with weight control. Glutathione, a compound produced by avocados, is functional in the removal of harmful toxins from the body.
3. Prickly pear
The juice and flesh of opuntia, also known as prickly pear, is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat liver disease, fatigue and ulcers.
4. Olive oil
Olive oil is loaded with powerful antioxidants, but should be consumed in moderation. A journal entry published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology shows that olive oil consumption may decrease the level of fat in the liver and increase blood flow, while improving liver enzyme levels.
5. Lemons and limes
These citrus fruits are high in vitamin C. The journal entry published on Plants Consumption and Liver Health suggests that these fruits may reduce liver damage. It is highly recommended that these citrus fruits are consumed in the morning to stimulate the liver.