5 drinks to boost liver health

Liver diseases are on the rise globally. Two million people die every year due to liver diseases, and this is about 4% of all deaths globally. The liver is a vital organ responsible for detoxification, metabolism, and nutrient storage. Despite its importance, liver health often takes a back seat. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is becoming increasingly common due to sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, and rising obesity rates. Here are five drinks that can help boost liver function when paired with other lifestyle changes. Let’s take a look.

Yes. Coffee, the beloved morning staple, has been shown to improve liver function. Regular coffee consumption may reduce the risk of several liver diseases, including NAFLD. Antioxidants such as chlorogenic acid, present in coffee, can reduce inflammation and protect liver cells. Drinking two cups of coffee daily is associated with a lower risk of liver fibrosis progression in patients with chronic liver disease, according to a 2020study. Coffee consumption can also reduce the risk of all forms of liver disease, including fatty liver and liver cancer. Choose black coffee, and also avoid sugar.

A cup of green tea keeps the doctor away. Green tea is rich in catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which are known for its antioxidant properties that support liver health. Several studies have shown that green tea consumption may reduce liver fat accumulation and protect against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). A 2015 meta-analysis of studies found thatgreen teahelps regulate lipid metabolism, which reduces the accumulation of lipids in the liver. For best results, drink a cup or two of green tea daily for its anti-inflammatory effects. Do not overdo it. Excessive consumption can lead to potential liver strain from concentrated extracts.

Beets can indeed beat many diseases! Beetroot juice is packed with betalains and nitrates, which support liver detoxification and reduce oxidative stress. A A 2019studyfound that beetroot juice may help reduce oxidative damage and inflammation of the liver. Its vibrant red pigments help neutralize free radicals, easing the liver’s workload. One small glass (about 8 ounces) of beetroot juice once in a while is sufficient to reap these benefits.

Your regular tea also has a protective effect on the liver. Yes, boosting liver health could be as simple as sipping some black tea. A 2021studyfound that the supplementation of tea prevented liver steatosis and inflammation, decreased oxidative stress, and regulated gut microbiota in chronic alcohol-exposed mice. Teas such as the oolong tea and dark tea are especially beneficial for the liver. However, ensure not to exceed more than two cups to avoid excessive caffeine. Also, skip the sugar.

Lemon water has been shown to support liver hydration. It also provides a dose of vitamin C. Citrus flavonoids, like those in lemons, may protect the liver by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Drinking warm lemon water first thing in the morning aids digestion and supports detoxification. You can use the juice of half a lemon in 8–12 ounces of water daily. A 2017studyfound that giving lemon juice to mice helps protect their livers from damage caused by alcohol. It worked by lowering certain harmful substances in their blood and liver.

Drink these and your liver will thank you

For better liver health, make some lifestyle changes. Focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Exercise too, can prevent a lot of ailments