Google “liver detox” and you will find millions of results. There are a lot of liver detox programs out there. The ones that are effective for creating optimal health all have one thing in common …
They include dietary changes and supplements to cleanse your liver, return it to its naturally functioning state, and keep your liver working properly in the future.
Eating the right foods and supplements can quickly create a healthy, strong liver that does its job properly. As part of a smart liver detox, as well as practices that are part of a healthy lifestyle, do the following:
Drink Lots of Water
The Mayo Clinic, American Cancer Foundation, WebMD, Arthritis Foundation and other respected health authorities offer the same advice regarding water consumption – you should be ingesting a minimum of 1 gallon (3.8 litres) of water each and every day.
This includes not only water that you drink, but water that is naturally found in the foods that you eat. Drinking water helps the kidneys flush out toxins and poisons. Your kidneys and liver work together to cleanse your body, thus drinking water can help improve the detoxification of both organs.
Avoid Supplements Containing Iron
Iron supplements can damage the liver over time. A person who takes iron supplements may have iron overload that can cause damage to the liver cells, eventually leading to their deaths. This results in scarring which can lead to liver cirrhosis. It also increases the probability that the DNA of your cells is damaged and changed, and increases the risk of developing cancer of the liver.
Eat a Lot of High Fiber Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables that contain a lot of fiber prevent the liver from overworking. The fiber slows down the absorption of glucose by the liver so it does not overwork the organ too much. A high fiber diet has also been linked to a healthy body weight regulation.
Split peas, beans, artichokes and broccoli are extremely high in healthy dietary fiber. So are Brussels sprouts, raspberries, blackberries and other berries, avocados and pears.
Glutathione
Glutathione is an important antioxidant produced naturally by the body. It is made up of three amino acids – glutamine, glycine, and cysteine. It traps free radicals as well as toxins such as mercury and other heavy metals so they get flushed out. Aside from being naturally produced by the body, glutathione can also be obtained by eating certain fruits and vegetables.
Squash, zucchini, potatoes and melons deliver healthy glutathione. Garlic, spinach, asparagus, grapefruit, strawberries and peaches also contain this liver-friendly compound.
Avoid Animal Products
Animal products may contain a lot of substances like antibiotics, hormones, and steroids. Moreover, they also contain saturated fats that can elevate the amount of cholesterol in the body which can impede the detoxification process of the liver.
Exercise
Do not underestimate the power of exercise. Adding heat to the body through exercise helps mobilize the toxins out of the fat and muscle cells so that they are eliminated as sweat. Be sure to engage in an activity that feels good to you and is something you enjoy. Yoga, walking, stretching, hiking, biking, rebounding (jumping on a trampoline) and swimming are all great ways to get started.
Sauna
Using a sauna can be a great addition to your detox strategy. There are numerous benefits including the elimination of toxins.
Lemon Water
Starting your day with a glass of warm lemon water is a gentle yet effective way to support and cleanse the liver, kidneys, and colon, and will help to alkalize the body. It will assist in breaking up mucus and will provide energy via enzymes, vitamin C, potassium, and trace minerals. First thing in the morning, before breakfast squeeze the juice from half of a fresh lemon (do not use bottled varieties) and mix with 8oz of warm water.
Toxin Elimination Bath
Epsom salts have a myriad of benefits including reducing pain and inflammation and infusing your body with magnesium. Magnesium is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in your overall health including the elimination of toxins.
Most people are deficient in this nutrient and therefore taking an Epsom salt bath should be an important part of your detox strategy. Each evening, place 2 cups of Epsom salts under running water at the hottest level you can tolerate. You can also add essential oils such as lavender oil for a destressing aromatherapy effect. Soak for at least 20 to 30 minutes and allow yourself to sweat. You should feel very relaxed and sleep soundly.
Fiber
Fiber is an essential component to your liver detox because it helps to support the colon in its role of toxin elimination. In addition to lots of fresh vegetables, ground flax seeds and chia seeds are recommended.
Body Brushing
The lymphatic system plays an important role in detoxing your body and body brushing (or dry brushing) is an effective way to stimulate the lymph nodes in keeping blood and other vital tissues detoxified. The many benefits include breaking up cellulite, removing dead skin, promoting circulation, and strengthening your immune system.
You will need to use a natural bristle brush, which can be purchased at most health food stores or pharmacies. The entire process should take approximately 2-3 minutes and should be done prior to showering or your taking your detox bath. Start at your feet and work up the body in long strokes towards your heart. Be sure to cover the whole body, but skip the face and the breasts.
Castor Oil Packs
These packs can have a very profound impact on the health of your liver – despite that they are an external method of detoxing.
Castor oil has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects when used externally. You can apply the oil to your skin (stomach area) via a pack and it can be used to stimulate and detox the liver and gall bladder.
Directions:
You will need 100% pure, cold-pressed castor oil, a piece of cloth (wool flannel is said to be best), and a hot water bottle (or heating pad). If you don’t want to go searching for the supplies, you can purchase a castor oil pack online.
- Fold the cloth into three or four layers, and soak it with castor oil.
- Rub castor oil on your stomach, lie down, and place the hot flannel on top of your stomach.
- Seal off the flannel with plastic wrap.
- Cover with a hot water bottle or heating pad for one hour, keeping the flannel as hot as safely and comfortably possible.
After you are done, wash the oil from your abdomen then relax. Many people report a very serene and tranquil feeling after completing this detox regimen.
Although it is regarded as a safe regimen you must always consult your doctor before trying any new program or alternative remedy.
