Detox Liver

Our liver is our body’s internal detox. It works hard to rid our body of toxic chemicals, and it converts nutrients in our diet to usable matter and stores it until our cells need it. Our liver also plays a role in metabolizing carbohydrates and regulating blood glucose.

Detoxing the liver helps support healthy liver function. The best liver detox diet consists of removing processed foods, hydrogenated oils, added sugars, alcohol and other substances from our diet, and eating plenty of fresh, organic vegetables, fruits and whole foods. Also, we may take supplements that contain detoxifying herbs like milk thistle, turmeric and dandelion root to detox our liver. 

The Dandelion herb is especially indicated in detoxification of the liver, restoring hydration along with electrolyte balance. Dandelion root contains a bitter compound, "taraxacerin" that increases the level of bile secreted by the gallbladder, helping the liver to detoxify more efficiently. It is also diuretic, aiding the liver and kidneys to flush away excess water and waste, supporting the body as it eliminates harmful toxins.

Dandelion leaf has been found to promote healthy lipid profiles, suppressing fat accumulation in the liver and reducing insulin resistance. This leaf also contains antioxidants that have a specific effect against liver toxicity.

Regarding turmeric, its antioxidant effect appears to be so powerful that it may stop the liver from being damaged by toxins. This could be good news for people who take strong drugs for diabetes or other health conditions that might hurt their liver with long-term use.

Meanwhile, the active ingredient in milk thistle, silymarin, also acts as an antioxidant by reducing free radical production. Scientists think this creates a detoxifying effect, by keeping toxic substances from binding to liver cells, which is why it is milk thistle may be beneficial for liver problems.

Despite the positive findings, subsequent studies have been unable to replicate the results or demonstrate that milk thistle prescribed on its own would render the same effects and so more research is needed to support this.