Natural ways to help your liver function

The liver is the largest organ in the body. It keeps the body clean of toxins and is important in the digestion of fats, explains Health Line. In other words, it cleans and feeds you. The liver detoxifies the blood by removing dangerous by-products and harmful toxins like alcohol and drugs. The liver stores vitamins and minerals, releases energy into your body when you need it most, and is responsible for converting ammonia into urea (urine). 
Unfortunately, the liver is prone to diseases like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and cancer. When the liver becomes so damaged it loses its ability to function properly, it experiences cirrhosis. While cirrhosis is most often associated with long term alcohol abuse, it can occur as a result of any number of underlying issues. To promote healthy liver function throughout life, you can use home remedies that actually cleanse the liver and prevent against cirrhosis. 
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1. Tumeric. Tumeric is a cure-all spice, that in addition to aiding in digestion and healthy blood sugar balance, also supports healthy liver tissue and liver metabolism, says Dr. Axe. To reap the benefits of turmeric, add the bright yellow spice to your morning eggs or mix it in with a warm glass of milk before bed. 
2. Garlic. You can naturally detox your liver using garlic, according to Natural Society. The home remedy works because garlic contains a sulfur-based compound that activates liver enzymes which expel toxins from the body. Garlic also contains allicin and selenium, both of which protect the liver from damage. Use garlic in every meal you cook -- in your morning eggs and yogurt, sautéed with onions and olive oil, and roasted with meats and vegetables. 
3. Raw vegetable juice. Dr. Axe recommends juicing cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts in combination with more tasty veggies like cucumbers, carrots, and beets. Juicing makes vegetables more easy to digest, and thus more readily absorbed. Cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts are particularly good for a liver cleanse because they reduce the acid in the stomach and thus help balance pH levels. They are also high in fiber and thus aid in the elimination of toxins. 
4. Green tea. Liver Support cites a study published in The Journal of Nutrition, which demonstrates the positive impact green tea has on people suffering from fatty liver disease. According to the study, green tea blocks the amount of fat stored in the liver, thus preventing fatty liver disease. It also interferes with fat absorption, enhances the rate at which fat is used for energy, and blocks fat synthesis in the liver. Get in the habit of drinking green tea every single day for an extra-boost to your liver function. 
5. Avocado. A study originally published by the American Chemical Society found that avocados reduce liver damage. While scientists are now working to develop an extract from avocados that can potentially treat liver damage, you can start reaping the benefits now by eating an avocado today. 
6. Bananas and Beans. Potassium is important for healthy liver function. By adding bananas and beans, as well as sweet potatoes and tomato sauces, to your diet, you can cleanse your liver daily, reports Dr. Axe. Bananas have the added benefit of aiding in the removal of heavy metals from the body, while beans -- particularly white, kidney and lima beans -- are full of protein and fiber. 
7. Grapefruit and olive oil. You can cleanse your liver and gallbladder using a homeopathic cleanse featuring grapefruit juice and olive oil. According to Livestrong, the cleanse breaks up gallstones and works as a laxative. Grapefruit contains a substance that researchers suggest is helpful in dissolving gallstones and cholesterol. While this cleanse may be highly effective, it should not be used by women taking birth control pills or people on other medications effected by grapefruit. You should always speak with your doctor before beginning any sort of cleanse. 
8. Eat liver. Eating the liver of other animals can work wonders for your own liver. According to Dr. Axe, liver from young, grass-fed cattle and chicken are rich in Vitamins A and B, as well as folic acid, choline, iron, zinc, copper, and CoQ10. A popular recipe throughout Italy and France is chicken livers and caramelized onions cooked in red wine. 
Your liver is essential to a long and healthy life. It is important you take care of it by eating foods that support the liver and limiting your alcohol consumption. If it's right for you and your doctor agrees, you can try a liver cleanse every once in awhile to completely flush the liver of toxins. 
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RemedyDaily.com does not give medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.