Harvard doctor shares 8 veggies to boost gut and liver health

Vegetables are not just meant to complement the staples like rice and roti; they play a bigger role in boosting gut and liver health. They are said to act as natural detoxifiers and nutrient powerhouses. From cruciferous veggies like cauliflower and broccoli to fiber-rich bitter gourd, nature has blessed us with many vegetables that activate liver enzymes and flush out toxins, and then there are leafy greens such as spinach and kale that are packed with antioxidants that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. In a recent post on Instagram, Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford universities talked about eight veggies that can help boost gut and liver health. His post reads, "These veggies do more than fill your plate; they fuel your gut, liver, and overall health." "Try adding even one of these 8 veggies to your meals this week," he adds.
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As per Saurabh, broccoli is rich in sulforaphane which supports liver detox and gut microbes. He also adds, cruciferous veggies help reduce inflammation.

This root vegetable is packed with nitrates which helps with better blood flow and betaine compound helps support liver health and digestion.

This one is rich in fiber and antioxidants like beta carotene. They feed good gut bacteria and support healthy bowel movements.

As per Dr Saurabh, they are loaded with magnesium, folate, and prebiotic fibers, that help diversify the gut bacteria.

This is another cruciferous vegetable that is a powerhouse of fiber and compounds that reduce colon cancer risk, states Dr Saurabh. All you need to do is roast them for flavour without losing nutrients.

As per Dr Saurabh, this vegetable is very versatile, rich in choline, and considered to be crucial for brain and liver health.

In his post, he has explained that carrots are rich in carotenoids, which are important for eye and skin health, and the high fiber content feeds beneficial gut microbes.

Also known as bitter gourd, it is a powerhouse for blood sugar control and is packed with unique phytonutrients. It also supports metabolism and gut health.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is meant for general knowledge only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new routine.