The liver is an amazing organ. It is responsible for breaking down nutrients, converting toxins into harmless compounds, and getting rid of toxic substances inside our bodies. For this reason, you have to ensure that your liver’s health is in a tiptop condition. You can achieve this by following these natural ways to improve your liver function.
1. CONSUME ANTI-INFLAMMATORY FOODS
The liver is responsible for breaking down the food, drinks, and medicines that we consume. However, this doesn’t mean that your body is free from harmful substances. Toxic compounds can enter your body in several ways like through inhalation. When this occurs, your immune system will see these substances as a threat, leading to inflammation, allergic reactions or autoimmune responses. In fact, chronic inflammation is a common problem nowadays, which can negatively affect your liver’s performance.
Nonetheless, an effective way to fight inflammation is to eat tons of anti-inflammatory foods such as bitter greens, seeds, and nuts. These nutritious foods are also rich in antioxidants that can remove toxins, free radicals, and other damaging compounds. Some foods like garlic and cruciferous vegetables are rich in sulfur, a mineral necessary for your body’s detoxification process. Additionally, you should also limit your intake of alcohol and refined carbohydrates. Remember, these products can trigger inflammation and burden your liver.
2. MOVE YOUR BODY
Typically, we perform regular workouts to lose weight and tone our bodies. But, these activities can offer other benefits- physically, emotionally, and mentally. In fact, exercising is one of the best ways to improve your liver function. Remember, an increase in blood flow occurs when you exercise. This will not only help deliver nutrients to different parts of your body. Blood circulation is also essential to effectively cleanse your body. Furthermore, fat build-up may result in a sluggish liver. You can prevent this condition through regular exercises. Finally, your body releases toxins when you sweat, which lightens your liver’s job. The great news is that, according to some experts, a cardio workout lasting for only five minutes can already help improve your liver function.
3. BE MINDFUL OF SOME MEDICATIONS
Aside from foods and drinks, some medications can also harm your liver, especially when taken continuously and excessively. The best example for this is our usual go-to pain reliever, which is Tylenol: (acetaminophen). Since this drug is typically combined with other medicines, some of us are taking too much acetaminophen without realizing it. As such, you have to be mindful of your medications and their side effects. Always ask your doctor about the safest way to take your medicines. Other drugs that may harm your liver are antibiotics, heart medications, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
4. TRY SOME HERBAL TEAS
One of the most popular ways to improve your liver function is to take natural supplements or herbal teas. Basically, various products can help boost your liver’s health. Green tea, for example, has catechins (potent antioxidants) that can fight free radicals, prevent fat build-up, and reduce liver inflammation. Milk thistle can also support your liver through the herb’s anti-inflammatory and cleansing abilities. Dandelion and turmeric are other recommended tea products you can try. However, you have to consult your doctor before taking these herbal teas or natural supplements. This is especially true if you have an underlying medical condition.
5. DO ANTI-STRESS ACTIVITIES
As you know, ongoing stress can harm your body in various ways, including your liver’s health. In fact, various studies have linked excess cortisol (stress hormone) to an increased risk of fatty liver disease. Fortunately, doing relaxing activities can help reduce your cortisol levels. Going to a sauna is an excellent option you can take. Remember, this anti-stress activity can also make you sweat, allowing your body to release toxins and ease your liver’s workload. You can also try hot yoga. Meditation is another calming activity you can do to release your tensions and worries.
6. KEEP YOUR BODY HYDRATED
The last in this list of ways to improve your liver function is to always keep your body hydrated. Keep in mind that water is crucial for numerous bodily functions, such as your liver’s metabolism (break down of nutrients) and detoxification process. Adding a few slices of lemon to your water will not only enhance your drink’s flavor. Lemon can also aid in your body’s cleansing process. Lastly, drinking fresh fruit and veggie juices is an excellent option to consume antioxidant-rich foods and hydrate your body.
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