liver regeneration foods - #16659
I am really worried about my liver health and started reading about liver regeneration foods. For the past few months, I've been feeling super sluggish and my doctor said my liver enzymes were a bit high. I've tried to eat healthier but sometimes it’s hard to know what actually works. Last week I stumbled across this article saying certain liver regeneration foods like leafy greens and beets can help, but I’m not sure how legit that is. Do you guys have any thoughts on liver regeneration foods? Like, what should I definitely be eating? I've added spinach and kale to my diet but I feel like I need to do more. Also, should I be avoiding anything specific? It's confusing, because some days I feel fine, but other days when I eat junk, I feel like it hits me hard. I’m also taking milk thistle supplements because I read they help with liver health, but not sure if that's just a waste of money. Can liquor affect the impact of these liver regeneration foods? I guess I’m just trying to figure out if these changes really make a difference or if I’m just worrying too much. Any advice or personal experiences would really help!
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Doctors’ responses
Liver regeneration foods do have a supporting role in liver health, though the evidence supporting dramatic effects might be overstated at times. Leafy greens like spinach and kale can be beneficial due to their high antioxidant content, which helps reduce oxidative stress on the liver. Beets are also known for compounds such as betalains which may support liver detoxification. It’s great that you’ve incorporated these into your diet. Adding other foods such as fatty fish which provide omega-3 fatty acids, nuts particularly walnuts, can be beneficial due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Also consider adding high-fiber foods like oats and brown rice to help support healthy digestion and liver function.
As for milk thistle, it’s commonly believed to support liver health but the clinical evidence is mixed. Some studies suggest potential benefits in liver function, while others show limited effects. It might not be harmful, but it’s crucial to manage expectations regarding its impact.
On what to avoid, reducing intake of alcohol is paramount since it can exacerbate liver damage and diminish the benefits of a good diet. Processed sugars and trans fats, often found in junk foods, can also put extra strain on the liver, exacerbating inflammation and fatty liver. These should be minimized.
The best approach for managing mildly elevated liver enzymes and overall liver health is to maintain a balanced diet, remain active, and avoid hepatotoxic substances where possible. If lifestyle changes don’t help or liver enzymes remain high, follow up with your healthcare provider as it could be indicative of a more serious condition requiring medical intervention.
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