Does Detox Diet Help The Liver?

We have heard of different kinds of detox diets. One among them is the Liver detox diet. Can a detox or cleanse help your liver for real?

Why Detox?

Detox diets are generally meant to cleanse and detoxify our systems that are polluted with various chemicals that reach our system through our food, water, medications, and air. Some of our lifestyle practices like alcohol, cigarette smoking, tobacco chewing, and frequent use of processed foods also contribute to polluting our health systems.

Supporters believe that periodic cleansing of the body with a liver detox diet helps to clear the body off toxins that have built up from unhealthy lifestyle practices.

But, how does this work? Is it possible to target a single organ for cleansing?

Let us see how the liver detox diet works according to the promoters.

A liver detox diet begins with:

1. Eating and drinking only fresh fruits and vegetables in the form of juices or smoothies for a few days. The main ingredients are artichoke, dandelion, milk thistle, apples, berries and lemon.
2. This is followed by drinking apple juice for a few days
3. And lastly, eat Epsom salt with large quantities of olive oil.

The proponents claim that this diet cleanses the liver and detoxifies the entire system.

Also Check: Your Body Is Eliminating Toxins 24/7-Are You Supporting Its Needs?

Doesn't The Liver Detox Diet Look Complicated?

The diet is restrictive of some food groups and it might seem hard to follow initially.

Our traditional medicine practices like Ayurveda and Naturopathy also support certain treatments for acute and chronic liver diseases through diet. But, it is important to follow them under a health professional's guidance. And, most importantly you should know that the same treatment might not hold good for everyone.

Detoxify The Healthy Way!

Our body has its own detoxifying process that works quite well. The liver, kidney, and colon do a good job of processing chemicals, and toxins and eliminating them through sweat, urine, and feces.

There is no doubt that chemicals and toxins are constantly bombarding our bodies. Some are inevitable, and some come from our habits. But, certainly, there is a healthy way to stay away from them.

This includes:

• Include two to three servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
• Include milk and milk products in your daily meals
• Use whole grains and pulses regularly
• Limit caffeine intake. One cup a day is fine.
• Stay hydrated and maintain good liquid intake
• Quit alcohol, smoking, and tobacco chewing
• Incorporate healthy cooking habits
• Avoid processed and refined foods
• Limit salt and sugar intake
• Exercise regularly
• Taking 7-8 hours of sleep daily
• Make sure you drink warm water with freshly squeezed lemon juice to it to ensure your body gets Vitamin C, which will spur the production of digestive juices.
• Avoid unnecessary use of painkillers or over-the-counter medicines. Check with your doctor for safe medicines

Must Check: How Yoga Helps In Detoxification?

Liver Friendly Foods

Garlic

Eating garlic helps in activating the liver detox enzymes (these enzymes assist in breaking down and eliminating toxins from the system)

Beetroots

Beetroots activate liver enzymes and effectively utilize the bile, which helps in breaking down and absorption of healthy fats and fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin E.

Broccoli Sprouts

Broccoli sprouts are a “detox superstar,” as they’re rich in antioxidants and boost up glutathione.

Walnuts

They help in circulation and blood flow as they’re rich in arginine, which helps the body to neutralize and flush out toxic byproducts.

Other Beneficial Foods For Liver Health

• Turmeric
• Pears
• Grapes
• Fatty fish
• Olive oil

You May Also Like: The Ultimate One Day Detox Guide

Liver Detox Sample Diet Plan

Please consult a dietitian before adopting any diet plan. The plan may not be apt. according to your nutrition requirements.

In a nutshell

Incorporating a healthy lifestyle in itself is a way to support your body to function perfectly and it takes care of eliminating the toxins naturally. If you are still eager to try out any such diets, be aware of the risks. It should be done only if it is prescribed and supervised by a health professional.