Love Your Liver: Detox
The liver plays such a critical role in maintaining our physiological well being. The condition of our liver impacts our wellness, which is then manifested through our skin.
As some of you may remember from biology class, the liver metabolizes carbs, protein, fats, and vitamins A,
B12, D, E, and K . But it also detoxifies the foods we ingest and the elements we inhale or injest in order to keep potentially toxic chemicals out! As you can imagine, an overstressed liver--one that is constantly filtering out the junk that enters our system--becomes, let's say, like an over used coffee filter where the unwanted stuff such as toxic ingredients and pesticides in foods or environmental pollutants, all seep in. In addition, the metabolism of carbs, protein, fats and vitamins is also compromised, hindering the absorption of necessary nutrients. All this then shows on our face, in addition to feeling lethargic, irritable, nauseous etc.
So, love your liver!
Take good care of your liver by eating less fatty foods and foods poisoned by toxic ingredients or pesticides. Limit your exposure to environmental pollutants. And detox your liver once in a while to revive and strengthen it. It is the first and far most effective way to having healthy skin.
Detox Tea for Your Liver
(adapted from Kathi Keville's recipe, Director of American Herb Association)
1 tsp dandelion root (an important liver stimulant)1 tsp milk thistle seed (helps protect the liver from toxic chemical poisoning)
1tsp bupleurum (neutralizes liver toxins and is an antioxidant that protects & strengthens your liver)
1/2 tsp 5-star anise (aids circulation)
or 1/2 tsp licorice root(neutralizes liver toxins)
1/2 tsp ginger (blood purifier)
1-quart water
Combine ingredients in a saucepan and let simmer for a few minutes. Turn down heat and let steep for 15 min. Strain and drink 1 cup/day.
Liver Boosting Foods
Artichokes--have a compound that helps the liver regenerate itself
Garlic--helps activate liver enzymes that help flush out toxins
Ginger--helps protect against cellular damage
Rosemary--stimulates liver to work more efficiently
Beets and carrots--high in flavonoids and beta-carotene, allow for healthy liver function
Grapefruit, lemons, and limes--high in vitamin C, allows the liver to synthesize toxins into a substance that can be absorbed by water. Drink lots of water!
Leafy greens--are excellent for neutralizing heavy metals found in your blood.
Cabbage, brussels sprouts, and cauliflower --these veggies contain high amounts of glucosinolate, which help the body's antioxidant system, helping the liver to eliminate toxins
Avocado--helps body produce glutathione, which is necessary for the liver to cleanse harmful toxins
Oils--the lipids in these oils allow the boy to absorb toxins, thereby, assisting the liver
Fruits rich in pectin (raspberries, strawberries, apples)--allows body to release toxins
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