The liver, the largest internal organ in our body is the hub of metabolism. It is where our carbohydrates and fats are converted to their storage forms, and various proteins and enzymes are synthesized. Also, most of the drugs we take are broken down here. In addition, the liver is responsible for producing a fluid called bile which is crucial for fat absorption. As it is clear that the liver is an organ with manifold metabolic and synthetic functions, it is understandable that it can often get worn out. Liver cells are constantly exposed to toxins like alcohol, drugs, and chemicals. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you consume healthy food for the liver so that it stays in good health.
Are you concerned that your lifestyle and food choices might affect the longevity of your liver?
If you are concerned that all the drugs you take, junk you eat, and the booze you drink might damage your liver, you are at the right place. To know the health status of the liver, Liver Function Tests (LFTs) can be done. Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are nothing but a set of blood tests to measure the liver enzymes and proteins. If the results show abnormal values, it may be indicative of liver damage.
It is best to avoid alcohol, red meat, fatty foods, packaged food items, and sugars to keep your liver healthy. If you are looking to make a change in your meal and protect your liver, worry not, for here we have a curated list of must-have healthy food for the liver!
Must-have healthy food for the liver
1. Coffee
Are you a coffeeholic? If yes, then this piece of information will be music to your ears. If not, well you may start thinking of becoming one!
Results from various studies have proven that coffee is good for the liver. When coffee is metabolized by our body, a chemical product is formed known as paraxanthine. And this paraxanthine slows fibrosis, the process by which scar formation occurs. Fibrosis is the underlying mechanism by which many liver diseases progress to cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease. Coffee has also shown considerable effect against hepatitis infection and also liver cancer.
Coffee of any kind, be it instant, ground, or even expresso is said to have the same effect on the liver. So, why wait! Check out these amazing instant coffee products available on the Foodvez site.
Also, if you want to customize the bean and grind to your taste, check out the Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters at Foodvez.
2. Green Tea
Another beverage with proven health benefits for the liver is green tea. Green tea has an abundance of a substance called catechin. Catechin has anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. A hot cup of freshly brewed tea has a higher percentage of this catechin than the instant green teas and iced teas. But one should also keep in mind that green tea extracts have been associated with liver damage, especially when taken in high amounts.
You can find some of the best green tea options at Foodvez here,
- The Healthy Company – Natural Lean Green Tea Sticks
- Lipton Green Tea Leaves
- Tetley Green Tea Packet
3. Nuts and Berries
Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, etc., are excellent sources of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). These fatty acids are protective against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) which is a very common liver problem, mainly in females. Nuts also contain Vitamin E and other antioxidants, thus helpful against oxidative stress and inflammation.
Berries such as blueberries and cranberries get their characteristic colors from anthocyanins present in them. These anthocyanins are polyphenol pigments. They also have anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic properties. Thus, they are protective against various liver diseases and anti-oxidant-induced damage to the liver.
Try out these heavenly preparations of nuts and berries conveniently packaged in cozy little jars!
- Nutribundle – Cranberry, Almond, Cardamom, Chocolate, Pistachio, and Khuskhus.
- Organic Tasteful Nutberryeeds
- Ancient Roots Seeds & Nuts Powder
4. Fish Oil
Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). These omega-3 fatty acids come under the good fats or “essential fats” category. This means that the body cannot synthesize these fats on its own, and thus supplementing them from outside is important. Omega-3 fatty acids have many proven health benefits such as maintaining lipid levels, reducing the risk of heart disease, as well as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), increasing insulin sensitivity, and anti-inflammatory action.
Thus, it is wise to ensure that you include fish oil in your diet. You can either consume more fatty fish, or you can use fish oil supplements that are available on the market. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), a person must eat fatty fish like salmon, herring, mackerel, etc., at least twice a week.
If you are looking for fish oil supplements, check out the variety of products available at Foodvez.
5. Oats
From beverages to snacks to breakfast, you can incorporate healthy food for the liver in any and every meal of the day. For example, having oats or oatmeal for breakfast is a simple and efficient way of starting your healthy meal plan for the day. Oats contain a lot of fiber which is important for smooth digestion. They also contain beta-glucans which are anti-inflammatory and good for the liver.
Want to change your breakfast menu? Check out the Patanjali Oats, and Manna Oats at Foodvez.
Avoiding foods that are bad for the liver, is as important as eating those that are good for the liver. Therefore, be sure to keep a check on the amount of fatty food, alcohol, processed food, and sugars you eat regularly. Long live you and your liver!
