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PREPARING YOUR LIVER FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON Kim Wilson – Lifestyle Health
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liver performs over 500 essential functions in the body, including detoxification, protein synthesis and the production of cholesterol and bile. It is vital for storing vitamins, minerals and even carbohydrates. It also breaks down ingested toxins such as medications, alcohol and natural byproducts of your metabolism. Taking care of your liver is critical to staying healthy.
As we approach the festive season, remember to include the following foods to keep your liver functioning optimally. COFFEE GREAT news for the coffee lovers among us: the research indicates that coffee may be good for the liver, especially because it may protect against conditions such as fatty liver disease and even cancer. A 2014 study in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology suggested that the protective effects of caffeine are due to its influence on liver enzymes. Coffee seems to reduce the buildup of fat in the liver, as well as increase the number of protective antioxidants (including glutathione) in the liver. Finally, coffee has been shown to decrease inflammation, which is a well-known risk factor for many conditions. GREEN TEA Green tea may be more of an acquired taste for some, but there is no discounting the many health benefits it offers. Green tea has been shown to help with weight management, blood sugar balance, cancer-prevention and more. In relation to liver health, a 2015 study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that green tea may help with reducing overall fat content of the liver, improve liver enzymes and may also fight against oxidative stress. Similar benefits have been found for black tea, but green tea seems to have more potent effects. GRAPEFRUIT Once touted as the ultimate “diet-friendly” breakfast food, grapefruit contains antioxidants that naturally protect the liver. Grapefruit has been shown to protect the liver in two ways: (1) reducing inflammation and (2) protecting the cells of the liver. The antioxidants in grapefruit are responsible for preventing the development of fibrosis in the liver, and in animal studies they have been shown to improve the liver’s ability to metabolize alcohol. Sadly, this benefit has not been seen for humans as of yet. It is worth noting that grapefruit may interfere with some common medications including Statins, certain Blood Pressure medications and more. It is worth checking with your healthcare practitioner if increasing your grapefruit intake will interfere with your medications. BERRIES Berries are packed full of antioxidants that are liver protective. Whole berries, or even their extracts, may also improve the liver’s immune and antioxidant responses. Whilst
