How to Optimize Your Liver Function

Optimizing liver function should be top of mind for the health conscious person. The liver is the largest gland in the body and is the only internal organ that will actually regenerate if part of it is damaged. In fact, up to 25% of the liver can be removed and it will grow back to its original shape and size. This is incredible. Of course, we want to support our liver to the best of our ability.

Did you know that all unabsorbed nutrients and many of our body’s metabolic processes are eliminated through the liver? Vibrant health of mind and body is not possible if the liver is not working properly.

There are actually four organs that filter various substances: the kidneys, the respiratory system, the lymph nodes/lymphatic system, and the liver. But for our purposes today, we’re going to specialize in the liver. The liver, being very versatile, performs many different metabolic and regulatory functions.

This is what the liver does (very simplified!):

1. Regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates. Converts glucose to glycogen for storage in the liver.
2. It has storage functions, including vitamin A, vitamin D, some of the B vitamins, iron, copper, and glycogen mentioned above.
3. Regulates protein metabolism. A healthy liver is required to have healthy blood vessels.
4. Detoxifies many toxic substances.

Here are four easy things you can do to help optimize your liver function:

1. Start the day with a glass of warm water plus the juice of 1/2 lemon or lime. This is a gentle method for cleansing the liver.
2. Eat a diet rich in raw vegetables (which are rich in digestive enzymes), particularly cruciferous vegetables.
3. Add beneficial herbs like dandelion and milk thistle.
4. Consult your healthcare provider for a more intense liver cleanse if interested.

Foods good for the liver include:

*Raw and dried fruits
*Raw vegetables
*Raw nuts: brazil, almonds, cashews, walnuts
*Raw seeds: flaxseed, sunflower, sesame, pumpkin
*Vegetables
*Sprouts (chlorophyll is very cleansing)
*Grain
*Breads: whole grain, multigrain, stone ground
*Chicken: preferably free-range, remove the skin!
*Eggs: preferably free range
*Seafood: tuna, salmon, sardines, mackerel

One of the most complex and indispensable organs in the body, the liver is like a clearinghouse for all the nutrients that haven’t been absorbed and also acts as the brain for many of the body’s metabolic processes. In some ancient civilizations, the liver was even said to be the center of the soul. Vibrant health of body and mind is not possible if the liver is not working properly.