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Liver Detox: Fact Or Myth?

What are some of the most effective ways to have a liver detox?

  1. Milk thistle is an effective cleansing ingredient
  2. Liver supplements can help reduce organ damage
  3. Drinking less alcohol
  4. Liver cleansing food is beneficial
A healthy liver can combat and filter out toxic substances that cause complications such as the development of gallstones, diarrhea, and blood vessel problems. The liver cleanses the body of toxins and impurities caused by an unhealthy diet as well as the excessive consumption of vices. Yet its effectiveness remains subject to plenty of scientific proof. Here are some of the widespread controversial liver detox facts.

Milk Thistle Is an Effective Cleansing Ingredient

The plant buds of the milk thistle with a bottle of its extract beside it Milk thistle is a herbal remedy and an important component of liver detox supplements. The active ingredients in milk thistle are a composition of plant compounds collectively known as silymarin. The silymarin extract is known for its antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties that help detoxify the liver. Milk thistle also serves as a complementary therapy used by individuals to reduce the impact of alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, as well as liver cancer. Indeed, liver supplements containing high levels of milk thistle are effective in keeping the liver healthy and possible diseases at bay.

Liver Supplements Can Help Reduce Organ Damage

Close up of a bowl of brown supplements The liver is an organ of the body that possesses the capacity to regenerate. Liver cleanses such as a healthy diet and supplements with milk thistle can decrease liver inflammation. Turmeric extracts have also been shown to effectively protect the liver against injuries caused by an unhealthy lifestyle. For individuals who have developed alcoholic liver disease, ceasing to consume alcohol provides the liver with the best chance for recovery.

Drink Less Alcohol

A man with his hand up refusing a glass of alcohol from an unknown person It is a fact that limiting alcohol consumption can help the liver eliminate toxins. It takes the liver an hour to naturally process an ounce of liquor. If more than an ounce is consumed, the system becomes saturated, which means the alcohol left accumulates in the blood and body tissues until the liver can metabolize it. Drinking too much alcohol reduces the liver’s ability to perform its normal function of detoxifying, which prevents it from filtering waste and other toxins from the body. Acetaldehyde is the primary metabolic product of alcohol. It is also known as a carcinogen or a possible cancer-causing compound. Enzymes in the liver cells metabolize and process alcohol into acetaldehyde then acetate. The liver eliminates alcohol from the body through breath, urine, sweat, and feces. A compromised liver will experience difficulty excreting alcohol out of your system.

Liver Cleansing Food Is Beneficial

Close up of an avocado sandwich on toast There is no easy and fast way to cleanse the liver. Aside from taking supplements, the best and healthiest way to detoxify the liver is to live a healthy lifestyle. Forget about the one-time cleanse and start making small tweaks to your diet that support liver health. With that, here are five powerful liver cleansing foods you can consume directly or add as an ingredient to a healthy dish.

Garlic

There are 39 different antibacterial agents that make garlic a great ingredient for any type of dish. These agents are enzymes that assist in breaking down toxins so that the body can eliminate them easily.

Beets

Beets are highly-effective in breaking down and absorbing healthy fats and fat-soluble nutrients such as vitamin E. Once the liver transforms these toxins into a water-soluble form, it can easily be excreted by the body through the form of bowel movements.

Broccoli Sprouts

Rich in antioxidants, broccoli sprouts support both phases of liver detoxification.

Walnuts

Walnuts are great brain-boosting nuts that also increase the circulation of blood. It can be transported from different areas of the body to the liver.

Avocado and Watermelon

The antioxidant lycopene in watermelons has been found to raise glutathione levels in the body and reduce any liver damage.

Key Takeaway

Some nutritionists from supplement manufacturers have recommended these liver detox facts. However, take note that some studies still look for substantial scientific proof on the matter. One thing’s for sure, making the change to a healthier lifestyle can ensure a well-functioning liver. With that, cut back on alcohol, a poor diet, and a generally unhealthy lifestyle. Support a healthy liver function with the Liv-a-New® Liver Detox Supplement from Puritan’s Pride. Start eating healthier food and take supplements daily for a happier, healthier, and longer life.