Liver Detox: Foods That Boost Liver Function

Garlic

Used as a health remedy in ancient Egypt and during the Middle Ages, research suggests garlic could be a valuable tool in the fight against liver cancer and fatty liver disease. Garlic contains a sulfur compound called allicin, a substance activated when garlic is chopped or crushed. A study published in the October 2013 issue of the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry demonstrated allicin can cause liver cancer cells to self-destruct, and researchers are continuing to study its anti-cancer properties. Research also indicates garlic helps lower cholesterol levels and reduce the amount of fat accumulated in the liver, and the 2013 issue of The Nutrition Reviews recommended regular consumption of garlic to prevent or reduce the symptoms of fatty liver disease. In addition, researchers believe garlic could help reduce liver hypertension and overall inflammation in the organ. Since garlic can cause drug interactions, patients taking protease inhibitors or anticoagulants should check whether they can safely consume this food.