As I mentioned earlier, our modern lifestyles expose us to so many toxins. Your liver is essential to obtaining optimal health. Many risk factors can impair liver function, such as: 2. As I mentioned earlier, a poor diet and alcohol use are the most common risk factors for liver disease.

Here are signs to look out for: 3. There are many preventive steps to take care of your liver, such as limiting alcohol use, losing weight, and understanding your risk factors for liver disease.

These natural steps promote detoxification and facilitate healthy liver function. Sometimes the most straightforward step can be a giant leap. The simple truth is that drinking plenty of water can keep your liver in tip-top shape and your kidneys.

Your liver and kidney work together to move toxins from your bloodstream and turn them into water-soluble substances transported in your urine. Water helps your kidney and liver transport toxins out of your body. Not any water will do to get the full detoxifying effect.

Drinking filtered water throughout the day to get the full effect. I have Aquasauna water filters throughout my home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and my office in Austin, Texas. Water and diet are the first places to start detoxing your liver. Caffeine, alcohol, processed foods with refined sugar, unhealthy fats, additives, and preservatives do the opposite of detoxing your liver.

You should also remove inflammatory foods such as gluten and dairy. Gluten inhibits digestion because it damages the gut and causes a leaky gut, allowing toxins and particles to get into your liver, and forcing it to work harder, as I mentioned earlier.

Trans fats have higher levels of saturated fats, increasing the risk of heart disease and cholesterol levels. Trans fat also affects your immune system and can lead to inflammation.

Instead, eat a diet full of organic fruits and vegetables and meats. Some studies found that low potassium levels increase metabolic disorders, including fatty liver and type 2 diabetes. There are a lot of health benefits of potassium, including lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, supporting heart health, and promoting optimal liver function.

Sweet potatoes are the most potassium-dense food you can eat; one medium sweet potato contains mg of potassium. Furthermore, sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin D, magnesium, and iron. Bananas and spinach are also excellent sources of potassium.

Every single one of us gets exposed to an unprecedented amount of toxins. There are over 80, chemicals registered for use in the United States, and another 1, get added each year.

These industrial chemicals are the primary ingredients in our cosmetics and personal care products. An average of seven new industrial chemicals get approval by the U.

Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is an excellent place to start when it comes to keeping your immune system functioning optimally.

I recommend a two-step approach for taming the toxins : 1 minimize your exposure and 2 support your detox pathways. Taking these steps is an excellent start to supporting optimal liver function.

Diet and water are the two best ways to get your liver back up and running. In most cases, your liver needs additional support to reduce its toxic burden. Enter glutathione, selenium, and milk thistle. Aside from protecting your liver tissue and the rest of your body from oxidative stress, it also supports normal inflammation levels and helps detoxify liver enzymes.

Glutathione helps remove heavy metals such as mercury, aluminum, and cadmium from your body, and it also helps eliminate toxins found in plastics and conventional cosmetic products or in mold.

And finally, milk thistle! Milk thistle is a fantastic herb that is famous for supporting liver health.

Used for over nearly 2, years, it contains a polyphenol called silymarin that has a powerful propensity for liver cells. In the liver, milk thistle helps protect liver cells from the damage done by toxins and heavy metals that the liver works hard to metabolize and detoxify.

Milk thistle also supports bile flow and viscosity and supports healthy levels of inflammation in the liver. What if I told you that you could get all these crucial ingredients in one easy-to-take supplement? Well, you can! I formulated Liver Support to include selenium, glutathione, and milk thistle to promote optimal liver function.

Liver Support helps detox and optimize your liver function and contains mcg of selenium, mg of milk thistle, and mg of Acetyl-Glutathione to support your liver. Amy Myers, MD is a two-time New York Times bestselling author and an internationally acclaimed functional medicine physician.

Myers specializes in empowering those with autoimmune, thyroid, and digestive issues to reverse their conditions and take back their health.

In addition, she is a wife, mother, and the successful founder and CEO of Amy Myers MD ®. Your information is secure and is handled in accordance with our privacy policy. We and selected third parties collect personal information as specified in the privacy policy and use cookies or similar technologies for technical purposes and, with your consent, for other purposes as specified in the cookie policy.

At the end of the day, alcohol is a toxin. Higher cumulative exposures over time to compounds and chemicals found in processed foods, pesticide residues, paint, certain plastics e.

BPA , heavy metals, aerosols e. benzene , thermal paper like shopping receipts, plus so much more, can place a burden on your liver and the rest of your body's intricate detoxification pathways and organs skin, gut, lungs, spleen, lymphatic system, kidneys.

Avoid these types of inputs whenever possible, and if you can't, it might be a good idea to consider detoxing daily as part of a proactive wellness lifestyle. Nurturing your gut health is key to promoting sufficient detox pathways in the liver and throughout the body.

Your gastrointestinal tract is not just a tube—it's an active barrier that helps your body digest and absorb nutrients into your bloodstream , while simultaneously protecting you from and removing unwanted compounds. When your gut health isn't top notch, toxins have the potential to enter the blood and unnecessarily tax the liver.

If you've been wondering how to detox or cleanse your liver without compromising your health, then read on. Just keep in mind—these strategies aren't about detoxing or cleansing the liver itself per se; they're about supporting the liver so it can perform optimally, in all of its vital actions including detoxification!

Nope, you don't need a fancy cleanse. What you need is a balanced, plant-dense diet that promotes healthy body composition and contains diverse nutrients and phytonutrients that support liver and gut health.

It's been shown in multiple clinical research trials that routines that help you achieve a healthy body weight and composition are linked to less accumulation of fat in the liver as indicated by liver health and liver function biomarkers 3.

In fact, higher levels of body fat and the subsequent negative impact on the liver is even seen in those who appear to be metabolically healthy 4.

A good first step: Ditch the processed foods and drink more water. Skip most prepackaged foods, excess caffeine, and alcohol, and focus on whole foods organic when possible —including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, sustainably raised meats, fish, eggs, and minimally processed oils, such as olive, avocado, or coconut oil.

Eating a clean, whole-food-centric diet means taking a break from most of the foods, additives, and pesticide residues that tax your system while adding in nutrient-dense foods that will nourish the body. Consider ditching common sources of food sensitivities and allergens, including gluten for some.

This can help support optimal gut health and barrier function, thereby reducing the number of toxins that enter your bloodstream which your liver is ultimately tasked with filtering and removing. Hyman recommends 8 to 10 glasses of filtered water daily.

Some experts believe warm water with or without lemon is even better because it helps promote good digestion and optimal functioning of the lymphatic system, both of which support liver health and the body's detoxification pathways.

Ferira takes a more global approach to healthful eating, simplifying things further: "If we focus more on just coloring our plates with diverse plants while embracing brilliant flavors and the joy of coming together over food, we'll be naturally consuming antioxidant powerhouses the boots-on-the-ground detox bioactives and less stressed about food—and all better for it.

Once you've got the basics down, you can start adding in targeted foods that promote healthy liver functioning—i. Almonds, sunflower seeds, peanuts, wheat germ, salmon, and avocado are all great sources of vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that research suggests can combat oxidative stress 5 and help bolster liver health.

Bile helps to transport toxins so they can be removed from the body, so healthy bile flow is essential for optimal liver health and toxin removal. Artichoke contains phenolic derivatives that have been used for centuries to stimulate bile flow and help protect the liver.

Deep-hued berries such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries aren't only loaded with fiber; they contain phytochemicals called anthocyanins, which have potent antioxidant properties that have been shown to scavenge free radicals and promote normal inflammatory processes.

These ruby-hued roots contain phytonutrient pigments called betalains, which help promote normal inflammatory responses 6 and support cellular repair in the liver thanks to their potent antioxidant properties.

They also contain betaine , which helps liver cells eliminate toxins, and pectin, a type of fiber that helps bind and clear toxins.

Consider trying one of these 10 delicious beet recipes for a healthy liver. Cruciferous veggies —such as broccoli sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and watercress—contain sulfur-containing phytochemicals called glucosinolates, which help the body remove toxins and promote longevity.

One study found that a drink made with broccoli sprouts activated enzymes that help pick up pollutants from the bloodstream and flush them out via urine, while another tied broccoli intake to positive changes in gut-liver axis health 7. Lemons, tangerines, and oranges contain a phytonutrient compound called D-limonene.

In a preclinical rodent study 8 , D-limonene has been shown to buffer the physiological stress of a high-fat diet. Sipping on lemon water throughout the day is also a great way to stay hydrated, which promotes the movement of toxins out of the body. Dandelion is known for its cleansing properties, and one study found that both the root and leaf helped rid the body of reactive oxygen species 9.

Reap the benefits by sipping on dandelion root tea , which makes a great caffeine-free alternative to coffee. Dandelion greens along with other bitter greens , such as mustard greens and arugula are great too, because they help stimulate bile production and promote healthy digestion.

Sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, lacto-fermented pickles, kefir, yogurt, and other fermented foods are loaded with beneficial probiotic bacteria that promote healthy digestion and the integrity of the gut lining, thereby helping keep toxins out of the bloodstream.

According to functional medicine expert Frank Lipman, M. Glutathione is an antioxidant concentrated in the liver that helps bind and neutralize toxins and escort them out of the body via urine or bile. Glutathione can be obtained directly from a few foods—including raw spinach, avocado, and asparagus—and it can also be produced by your body from the amino acids glutamine, glycine, and cysteine.

Some foods containing the building blocks of glutathione include bone broth, whey protein, and sulfur-containing foods such as broccoli and garlic.

In addition to elevating antioxidant capacity in the body, the phytochemicals in green tea help trigger both phase one and phase two liver detoxification pathways in the body.

In phase one, toxins are converted into water-soluble compounds by enzymes; and in phase two, toxins are bound to protective chemicals that neutralize them and allow them to be eliminated via bile and eventually feces or urine.

Dark leafy greens such as dandelion greens, arugula, spinach, and kale contain plant chlorophylls, which help remove chemicals, pesticides, and heavy metals from the bloodstream. Chlorophyll, according to preclinical science 10 , has toxin-binding properties, which can theoretically reduce the toxic burden on your liver.

When feces remain in the bowel, toxins can be reabsorbed into your system. So, it's important to get plenty of fiber-rich foods that bind up toxins in the gut and help promote regularity.

Try legumes especially lentils , raspberries, root vegetables, apples, pears, avocados, and almonds. There are so many reasons to get more omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, and the health of your liver is one of them. A recent research review 11 found that omega-3 consumption was associated with healthy liver fat levels—specifically, lower liver-fat levels and higher HDL "good" cholesterol levels.

Good sources of these healthy fats include oily fish e. for EPA and DHA , and plant-based sources like walnuts and flaxseed for ALA. A nutrient-rich diet is key.

But once you've mastered that, you might want to consider intermittent fasting for additional liver detox support. Research suggests that during periods of fasting, cells in the liver produce more of a protein associated with improved sugar metabolism and reduced levels of liver fat called GADD45β.

More research in this area is needed, but a number of experts promote intermittent fasting for a variety of reasons. One of the cool self-cleaning tools utilized during fasting is something called autophagy , which literally translates to 'self-eating.

Ferira likens autophagy to "spring cleaning, but every day, assuming you're giving your body the tools it needs to get after this all-important cellular clean up.

A good introduction to intermittent fasting is the hour fast, in which you confine all of your daily eating to an eight-hour window and fast for the remaining 16 hours. Try this for a week or two and see if you notice any changes in energy or mood.

For more specific guidance, check out our guide to intermittent fasting meal plans and schedules. We've already compiled our favorite liver supplements , but these are some specific nutrients to look for. When shopping for high-quality liver supplements, be wary of specific products that tout themselves as liver detoxes, liver cleanses, and liver flushes.

Many of these "cleanses" are harsh on the body and fail to comprehensively support liver function. That said, there are individual nutrient and plant bioactives that have scientific backing for their ability to support liver health by protecting liver cells, assisting in the filtering and removal of unwanted toxins, stimulating bile production, and more.

The following supplements are all generally safe, but you should still talk to a health care professional before taking one or more to ensure they don't interfere with your health regimen e.

One of the most well-known herbal supplements for liver health is milk thistle silymarin is its MVP bioactive , which is an extract from the seeds of the flowering milk thistle plant.

It has antioxidant and inflammatory response balancing properties and has also been shown to boost glutathione levels 12 , known as the master antioxidant. Look for a milk thistle supplement that's standardized to contain a concentrated dose e. We already mentioned some glutathione-boosting foods you can eat to support your liver, but did you know that targeted supplements with a bioavailable form of glutathione called Setria® can also promote daily glutathione status and ample body stores 13 of the "master antioxidant?

By making these lifestyle changes and incorporating regular exercise, quality sleep, and rest, you can support the renewal and healing process of your liver after alcohol consumption. Remember to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance based on your specific needs and health condition.

While there are several natural ways to support liver health and cleanse the liver after alcohol consumption, it is important to know when to seek professional help. Consulting a healthcare professional can provide valuable guidance and support in managing and treating any liver-related issues.

Here are some instances when it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional:. In certain cases, medical interventions and liver support may be necessary to address liver damage caused by alcohol consumption.

Healthcare professionals may recommend:. Remember, seeking professional help is essential for proper diagnosis, treatment, and guidance specific to your liver health. Healthcare professionals can provide personalized advice and interventions to support your liver through detoxification and renewal.

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An Insurance Guide for Addiction Treatment in Louisiana. Medically Reviewed By. The Impact of Alcohol on the Liver Understanding the Role of the Liver The liver is a vital organ responsible for numerous functions in the body.

How Alcohol Affects the Liver When alcohol is consumed, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to the liver. Detoxifying and Nourishing the Liver After alcohol consumption, it is important to focus on detoxifying and nourishing the liver to support its health and function.

Importance of Liver Cleansing Liver cleansing, also known as liver detoxification, is the process of eliminating accumulated toxins and promoting optimal liver function. Natural Ways to Support Liver Health There are several natural ways to support liver health and aid in its detoxification process: Hydration : Adequate hydration is crucial for liver health.

Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out toxins and keeps the liver functioning optimally. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day. Nutrient-rich foods : Incorporate a variety of nutrient-rich foods into your diet to provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support liver health.

These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit alcohol consumption : To give your liver a break and promote its healing, it is crucial to reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption.

This allows the liver to focus on detoxification and repair. Herbal supplements : Certain herbs, such as milk thistle, dandelion root, and turmeric, have been traditionally used to support liver health. These herbs may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in liver detoxification.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any herbal supplements. Exercise : Regular physical activity promotes blood circulation, which aids in the removal of toxins from the liver.

Engaging in moderate-intensity exercises, such as brisk walking or cycling, for at least 30 minutes a day can have a positive impact on liver health. Adequate sleep : Quality sleep is essential for overall health, including liver function.

Aim for hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to support your liver's natural detoxification processes. Hydration and Liver Health Proper hydration plays a crucial role in supporting liver health , especially after alcohol consumption. The Significance of Hydration Hydration is essential for overall well-being, and it is particularly important for liver health.