The liver is one of the most important organs in the human body. It is located on the upper right side of the abdomen. It is responsible for over 500 vital functions, including bile production, certain plasma proteins, excess glucose into glycogen, regulation of amino acid levels, processing of hemoglobin, resisting infections, clearing bilirubin from the bloodstream, and more. It is a self-cleaning organ that regularly “detoxifies” itself.

However, if one is keen on taking better care of the liver, the following remedies can help:

• Eat a variety of foods: Consume a healthy balance of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein, dairy, and healthy fats. Some foods that may improve liver function include blueberries, grapefruit, nuts, and fatty fish.
• Eat lots of fiber: To continue smooth liver function, incorporate fiber-rich foods like fruits and vegetables into one’s daily eating plan.
• Focus on hydration: Another important component of maintaining liver function is consuming the right amount of water. For most healthy adults, drinking seven to nine glasses of water daily is optimal.
• Limit the consumption of sugary, salty, and fatty foods: Foods that contain high amounts of sugar, salt, or fat may impede liver function over time and must be avoided.
• Avoid consuming unprescribed products: Several people assume products labeled “natural” are good for liver health. While the products may naturally occur, they may still damage the liver. Avoid consuming any products unless prescribed by the doctor.
• Regular exercise can help enhance liver, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal functions. According to research, regular exercise can prevent fat buildup in the liver, thus reducing the risk of fatty liver disease. Basic training or movements such as taking a brisk walk, trying an online workout class, or riding a bike are great ways to begin one’s exercise journey.
• Reduce stress: Too much stress can also negatively impact liver health. Studies have shown that during stressful times, blood flow weakens and natural killer cells in the liver expand, possibly contributing to cell death. This may worsen liver health. Although the causal relationship between stress and liver health needs further research, most experts agree that high stress levels hurt liver function.

It is important to recognize common emotional and physical signs of stress, such as feeling overwhelmed, losing control, having low self-esteem, feeling lonely, avoiding others, having low energy, experiencing headaches, an upset stomach, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, insomnia, frequent infections, and more. If one recognizes these symptoms, visit the doctor to learn about effective stress management techniques.

One of the most effective ways of cleansing or “detoxing” the liver at home is by increasing fluid intake (especially water). However, suppose one begins to develop symptoms such as itching, jaundice, swelling, blood vessel problems, gallstones, fatigue, nausea, or diarrhea. In that case, it is advisable to visit the doctor for a proper consultation. This will likely give one a better diagnosis and treatment plan with medically approved therapies to boost liver function and improve health.