Dr. Hilary’s Lifestyle Tips To Support The Liver
- Drink more water: After the liver neutralizes toxins they are eliminated from the body through the bowels and bladder. Even minor dehydration will limit your body’s ability to get rid of toxins. Aim to drink at least 2 litres of water daily, and more if you’re active or in a warm climate.
- Support elimination: When we’re constipated, toxins can be reabsorbed from the bowel, adding to the toxic burden in the body. We should have at least one fully evacuated bowel movement daily. Increasing fibre in the diet, drinking plenty of water, and being active are great first steps to support bowel health.
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Healthy nutrition: The liver requires vitamins, minerals, proteins and other nutrients that we get from food to function optimally. Foods also contain antioxidants that heal damage caused by Phase 1 oxidation. Top liver supportive foods include:
- Cruciferous veggies: brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale
- Foods containing sulphur: eggs, garlic, onions
- Protein-rich foods: meat, fish, beans, chickpeas
- Mineral-rich foods: nuts, seeds, dark leafy greens, beans
- Antioxidants: berries, beets, spinach, artichoke, dark chocolate
- Limit caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol are detoxified by the liver and add to its workload.