New Delhi, Apr 3 (IANSlife): Your live is the second largest organ in the human body with a complex structure and function. It plays a vital role in your digestive system. It processes all the food and liquid intake in the body, including medication. Therefore, it is impossible to survive without the functioning of the liver.

Being a multi-functionary organ, the liver is prone to viruses, toxic substances and contaminants present in food and water. Even when the liver is under siege, it is slow to complain as it is a tough, hardy part of our body. Dr. Namita Nadar, Head Nutritionist, Fortis Hospital Noida shares a diet which is beneficial for liver cleansing.

Liver problems generally remain unknown to patients, as they will experience few or no symptoms. According to a report by WHO, liver diseases are the 10th most common cause of deaths in India. The most common causes of liver diseases are obesity, excessive alcohol consumption and hepatitis viruses. While there have been major advances in medical research, there is still no complete cure for liver diseases. Only way to cure a liver is through a liver transplant. Therefore, it is necessary to make healthy lifestyle choices to prevent liver damage.

Detox Diet for Liver Cleansing

• Eat food like garlic, grapefruit, carrot, green leafy vegetables, apple and walnuts

• Walnuts are a source of glutathione, omega-3 fatty acids, and the amino acid arginine, supporting normal liver cleansing actions, especially when detoxifying ammonia.

• Consume olive oil, lime juice, green tea and turmeric.

• Turmeric, which has been used as a medicine in Ayurveda for centuries, is rich in Curcumin. The component helps the enzymes to flush out toxins, repairing liver cells. It also boosts bile production.

• Increase intake of alternative grains (Quinoa, Millet and Buckwheat) and cruciferous vegetables (Cabbage, Broccoli, Kale and Cauliflower). Such foods contain glutathione, which triggers the toxin cleansing enzymes of the liver.

• Have a balanced diet with foods from all the food groups: grains, protein, dairy products, fruits, vegetables and fats

• Eat foods that are rich in fibres such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grain breads, rice and cereals. Beets, a natural cleanser for digestive system, contain a healthy dose of fibre. It can break down toxic wastes to facilitate excretion. It also stimulates bile flow and boost enzymatic activity.

• Tea is beneficial for a healthy liver. This may be down to a compound named catechin. The antioxidant helps improve liver enzyme level, reduces oxidative stress and fat deposits in the liver. Green tea is packed full of this plant antioxidant.

• Citrus fruits synthesize toxic materials into substances that can be absorbed by water. Grapefruit is particularly beneficial as it contains two primary antioxidants: naringin and naringenin.