Having a healthy and properly functioning liver is one of the keys to sound health. This is because the liver performs a major function of removing toxins from the body.
We all consume processed foods in one way or the other, coupled with environmental pollution we are exposed to on daily basis. We intake preservatives and additives, which are produced synthetically and so have adverse effects on human health. For the liver to properly perform its detoxifying functions, it has to be in good, healthy condition. Without the liver, the body Will not be able to absorb essential nutrients necessary for healthy growth, from food.
In order to flush toxins out of your body and detox your liver, ensure these six food substances are included in your diet:
1. Garlic: This contains selenium, a mineral that has a great antioxidant property that detoxifies the liver. It also contains vitamin B6 which acts as an antiinflammatory substance in the liver. Arginine, an amino acid in garlic helps in relaxation of the blood vessels, there by regulating the blood pressure within the liver.
2. Grapefruit: This contains high percentage of vitamin C and glutathione. The liver also synthesizes glutathione naturally. Processes that require glutathione in the body include production of proteins and essential chemicals, tissue building and repair, as well as strengthening the immune system.
3. Leafy Green Vegetables: This protects your liver by neutralizing metals, pesticides and other chemicals. Important examples of green leafy veggies include: spinach, chicory, amaranthus and arugula; these enhance bile flow and waste elimination from the body. Consume beets also because it cleanses the liver and hence the blood system, of impurities. All these improve liver function and protein synthesis in the body. Cruciferous vegetables such as Brussels, cauliflowers and broccoli are also helpful to your liver; they are beneficial in the production of enzymes that remove toxins from different parts of the body.
4. Avocados: this contains vitamin C, vitamin E and glutathione, which are antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals, thus protecting liver cells from damage. Vitamins E and K present in avocados protect the liver against harmful inflammation, because they are anti-inflammatory vitamins; they also contain healthy fats that stabilize cholesterol level in the body.
5. Walnuts: These are rich in the amino acid isomer called arginine, which detoxifies the liver of ammonia. They are also highly rich in omega-3 fatty acid and glutathione, which are loaded with antioxidants that mop up disease causing, free radicals from the liver and hence the body. Walnuts also contain healthy unsaturated fats which protect the liver from fat accumulation and in the development of potent cell membranes around the liver cells.
6. Turmeric: This contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant substance, which protects the liver and bile duct, as well as boosts bile flow. It enhances the efficiency of the bile in emulsifying fat in the body. It also inhibits the conversion and re-circulation of toxins and alcohols into the body system.
Other Tips for Healthy Living
If you really want to live in sound health, then the following will also be helpful:
a. Eat healthy/balanced diets- foods, veggies and fruits.
b. Maintain good hygiene.
c. Avoid smoking and alcohol.
d. Avoid drug abuse.
e. Avoid harmful drugs.
f. Avoid overeating; this leads to obesity.
g. Avoid inhaling dust and smoke.
h. Reduce fatty foods to the minimum in your daily diet.
i. Do physical exercise at least twice per week.
j. Engage in activities that make you happy and rejuvenated. As much as possible, avoid loneliness and pensive mood as these can lead to immune breakdown and hence predispose you to depression and disease attack- Remember, a merry heart is a good medicine!
Comments
Post a Comment