The liver carries out a vast range of functions within the body, so taking care of it is key to maintaining health. Toxin removal and fat burning are two of the liver’s most important roles, but it also converts glucose to glycogen to fuel the body, stores valuable vitamins and minerals and removes damaged cells from the blood.
There are preventative steps you can take to detox your liver to reduce the risks of damage including the following lifestyle changes:
Reduce intake of saturated fats.
A 2017 study carried out by the charity Diabetes UK confirmed the link between eating saturated fats and impaired liver function. If the liver becomes overwhelmed by processing oils, butter and animal fats it can lead to obesity and other health issues.
Introduce liver-friendly foods into your diet.
Just as some foods should be avoided to look after your liver, others can help it to heal and recover. Leafy greens are very high in plant chlorophylls which can soak up toxins in the bloodstream. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and glutathione that help to cleanse the liver. Grapefruit, apples and berries are good for the gut and also give the liver a boost. Making small changes to your diet and replacing unhealthy snacks with liver-friendly foods is a simple step towards detoxing your body.
Get more sleep.
Lack of adequate sleep can lead to a range of physical and mental health problems. Sleep deprivation has now been linked with liver metabolism, so getting seven or eight hours of quality sleep each night is another way to protect this vital organ.
Enhance circulation within the body.
A sedentary lifestyle is one of the risk factors for liver disease. Getting active has a broad range of benefits for the mind and body, but many people don’t realize it can also help the detoxification process. Activity doesn’t have to be intense, and even just a couple of hours of walking, hiking or swimming every week can help.
Early warning signs that you may have a weak liver include frequent tiredness and low energy levels, loss of appetite and skin problems such as rashes and acne. More significant symptoms include eye issues such as redness and burning sensations, frequent headaches and sinus problems. If you have any concerns about liver problems seek medical advice.
