The liver is the second largest organ in the body and is a powerhouse that performs several important functions to maintain overall stability and health. The liver is responsible for producing proteins, cholesterol, and bile so that the essential nutrients are properly stored and utilised. It also breaks down toxins and thus maintains overall health. Therefore, ensuring this organ’s health is of utmost importance. It is recommended that you take the right antioxidant for liver.
Oxidative stress is caused due to factors like alcohol, drugs, environmental pollutants, etc. and plays a role in the development of liver diseases. Antioxidant therapy can potentially prevent and treat liver diseases associated with oxidative stress. In order to fight the free radicals, antioxidants are highly important and our body needs to obtain them from the diet.
Essential Antioxidants for Liver Health
To maintain the health of your liver, it is important that you add these antioxidants to your diet.
- Glutathione for Liver
A powerful antioxidant for liver, glutathione also helps detoxify the entire body. It guards our body against harmful free radicals and other substances. With age, the body’s ability to produce glutathione decreases. If you consume alcohol or other toxic substances, it can reduce glutathione levels in your body.
Glutathione for liver works by eliminating toxins, heavy metals, solvents, fungicides, etc. It can be obtained from potatoes, peppers, carrots, avocados, spinach, melons, squash, cauliflower, cabbage, mushrooms, etc. Glutathione with milk thistle supports liver functions and reduces oxidative stress on the liver.
- Alpha-Lipoic Acid for Liver
It is a naturally produced antioxidant in the body and can also be derived from certain foods. It breaks down carbohydrates for energy. Alpha-lipoic acid for liver is important to help prevent liver diseases and protect the brain. It can be derived from foods such as red meat, carrots, spinach, broccoli, and potatoes or can even be taken as supplements.
Antioxidant Foods for Liver
You can derive antioxidants from different foods. Some of them have been listed below:
- Coffee
Coffee promotes liver health and may even help lower the risk of liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, or permanent liver damage. It reduces inflammation and increases the levels of Glutathione which neutralises harmful free radicals.
- Green Tea
It can help regulate lipid metabolism. It contains a large amount of Polyphenolic antioxidants and is extremely beneficial for the liver and overall health. Drinking green tea will improve liver enzymes and bring down the level of oxidative stress. It also reduces fat deposits in the liver and further helps lower the risk of Liver Cancer.
- Garlic
Garlic is widely used and is available in different forms such as powder or oil. Garlic has antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. People suffering from fatty liver disease will gain the most benefit by consuming garlic. However, excess consumption of raw garlic should be avoided.
- Grapefruit
Grapefruit contains two main antioxidants – Naringenin and Naringin that helps protect the liver naturally. It can reduce inflammation and protect cells and check the progression of Hepatic Fibrosis. These antioxidants for liver play a major role if consumed properly.
- Ginseng
It is a medicinal herb used for the treatment of various diseases, including hepatic disorders. Ginseng extracts play a role in regulating liver functions and effectively treating liver disorders.
- Blueberries and Cranberries
Blueberries and cranberries have several health benefits and are packed with anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that help increase immune cell response. Blueberry extract has shown inhibition of the growth of human liver Cancer cells in lab experiments and must be included in your regular diet.
7. Beetroot juice
Beetroot is a rich source of antioxidants and nitrates. It is beneficial for good liver health. It also promotes good heart health and reduces oxidative damage and inflammation.
8. Curcumin
It is a polyphenol and acts as an antioxidant, antiseptic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory ingredient. It is rich in curcuminoids, which inhibit oxidation and can be effective in curing chronic Hepatic diseases.
9. Chicory
Chicory has been used for several years and contains many useful compounds such as Anthocyanins and Vitamins A and C and acts as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial agent. It may prove effective in supporting good liver health.
10. Nuts
Nuts have high fats and nutrients like the antioxidant Vitamin E and plant compounds. Nuts such as walnuts have high antioxidants and omega-6 & omega-3 fatty acid content. These are good for the liver and cardiovascular health.
Bottom Line
While the liver is capable of handling most toxins in the bloodstream, some toxins can cause harmful oxidation in your body leading to build up of free radicals (Oxidative stress). These free radicals are dangerous for the liver and your body’s natural antioxidants are required for defence. It is necessary to have vitamins like folate, B12, B6, and vitamins C and E. A variety of foods and nutrients can fulfil the requirement of antioxidants for liver and make sure that the detox process runs smoothly.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Aarti Nehra
