Which food improves liver function? - #12332
I am really worrying about my liver health and I've been trying to figure out which food improves liver function because I read somewhere that what you eat can really make a difference. I always feel kinda tired, and I just did some blood work that showed slightly elevated liver enzymes. My doctor told me to watch my diet, but then again, there’s so much information out there that it's hard to know what's what. I mean, I used to eat quite a bit of junk food (like a lottt of fried stuff), and I just wonder if that's catching up with me now. I heard things like leafy greens or beets could be good, but then I saw someone say garlic helps with the liver too? And I really don't know which food improves liver function the most. Should I just go all in on certain foods and avoid others? Like, are there specific ones that really stand out based on someone’s experience? Also, how long does it take to see improvements if I start eating the right stuff? Just feel kinda overwhelmed with all this and hoping for some guidance on which food improves liver function truly. Thanks!
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Doctors’ responses
To support your liver health, it’s best to focus on a balanced diet with foods known to support liver function rather than singling out one “miracle” food. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins is foundational. Yes, foods like leafy greens (spinach, kale) are great because they’re packed with antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and protect liver cells. Beets are another good choice since they contain nitrates and antioxidants that may improve blood flow and reduce oxidative damage. Garlic, in moderation, can enhance liver enzyme function due to its sulfur-containing compounds, like allicin, which help with detoxification processes. You mention previously consuming a lot of fried foods, and it would be beneficial to reduce or eliminate these as they’re high in unhealthy fats that can exacerbate liver inflammation and worsen liver enzyme levels.
Incorporate foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Stay hydrated with water to aid liver function. Limit alcohol, as it can be a significant liver stressor. Improvement will depend on various factors, including current liver health and lifestyle changes. Following a liver-friendly diet consistently over several months can lead to improvements in liver enzymes, but it’s important to individualize based on your specific health needs. Track your changes in conjunction with your healthcare provider, who can offer tailored advice and monitor your progress through follow-up blood tests. Always seek medical attention if you experience symptoms like jaundice, severe abdominal pain, or confusion, as these may indicate more serious liver conditions.
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