8 superfoods for a healthy liver

Eight products that will protect your liver: a scientifically based list for the health of your most important organ

A properly selected diet will not cure liver disease or relieve pain in the right side - it's better to see a doctor for such issues. However, certain foods can help protect the liver from damage and thereby reduce the risk of developing some diseases. Lifehacker has compiled eight suitable options.

1. Coffee

This aromatic beverage not only protects the liver but also slows the progression of existing diseases. Numerous studies confirm: people who consume coffee daily are less likely to see chronic liver diseases progress to cirrhosis or cancer. Moreover, antiviral therapy for hepatitis in combination with coffee shows increased effectiveness.

The effect is so significant that doctors recommend encouraging regular coffee consumption for patients with chronic liver diseases.

2. Tea

The protective properties of tea for the liver have been studied less, but green tea can be an excellent alternative to coffee.

A large-scale study involving more than 1,300 men showed that consuming 10 cups of green tea daily improves liver blood indicators. Another experiment found that patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease who drank 700 ml of green tea every day for 12 weeks demonstrated a reduction in fat deposits in the organ.

Chinese scientists in their review claim that green tea lovers are less likely to suffer from liver cancer. The lowest risk is observed in those who drink four or more cups daily.

Black tea, studied in mice, also showed a positive effect on liver blood indicators.

It's important to note: the benefit comes from natural tea. Dietary supplements with tea extract, according to some data, may harm the liver rather than protect it.

3. Grapefruit

Scientists have not yet determined what is more beneficial – the fruit itself or its juice. However, they are confident that the antioxidants contained in grapefruit can protect the liver.

Two antioxidants are especially valuable – naringenin and naringin. In animal experiments, these substances slowed liver fibrosis and fat accumulation. In addition, they help the organ process alcohol more efficiently, partially neutralizing its destructive effects.

4. Cranberry, blueberry, bilberry

These berries, like grapefruit, are rich in antioxidants that have a beneficial effect on the liver.

Studies in humans have not yet been conducted, but experiments on mice give unambiguous results: animals that received berries or juice for more than three weeks showed improvement in liver condition. The activity of immune cells and antioxidant enzymes increased, which enhanced the organ's protection against adverse effects.