The liver is one of the largest organs in the body. Many people believe that detoxifying helps the liver eliminate toxins after consuming too much alcohol or unhealthy food.
Some hope it will improve daily liver function, while others think it can treat liver diseases. Like most detox methods, liver cleansing involves specific steps. It may require fasting or only consuming fruit juices or other liquids for several days. You might also need to follow a restricted diet, use herbs, or take supplements.
The fastest way to restore liver health is to eliminate factors causing liver damage (Photo: Istock).
Is Liver Detox Safe?
There are medical treatments available for liver diseases, but no evidence suggests detox programs or supplements can reverse liver damage. In fact, detoxing may harm the liver. Studies have shown an increase in liver injuries caused by herbs and supplements.
For example, green tea extract can cause hepatitis-like damage. Coffee enemas in some regimens can lead to infections and electrolyte imbalances that could be fatal.
Other important facts about these programs and products:
- Some companies use ingredients that may be harmful. Others make false claims about treating serious conditions.
- Unpasteurized juice can make you sick, especially if you’re elderly or have a weakened immune system.
- If you have kidney disease, detox plans involving large amounts of juice may worsen your condition.
- If you have diabetes, consult your doctor before starting any diet that changes your usual eating habits.
- Fasting as part of a detox program may leave you feeling weak, dizzy, or dehydrated. If you have hepatitis B-related liver damage, fasting could worsen the injury.
Does Liver Cleansing Help After Alcohol or Unhealthy Food Consumption?
No scientific evidence shows that cleansing removes toxins from your body or improves overall health. You may feel better on a detox diet simply because you’re avoiding processed foods high in solid fats and refined sugars, which are calorie-dense but low in nutrients.
Detox diets may also eliminate foods you are allergic or sensitive to, like dairy, gluten, eggs, or peanuts. However, doctors say there’s no proof they help flush out toxins after overeating unhealthy foods or drinking too much alcohol.
The best way to reverse liver damage is to remove its cause. For instance, if you have alcoholic fatty liver disease, it’s crucial to stop drinking. If it’s due to poor diet or being overweight, focus on healthy eating and weight loss.
How to Support Your Liver After Drinking Too Much Alcohol
Your liver works harder when you drink excessively, so if you choose to drink, do so in moderation (Illustration: N.Phương).
The liver has limits on how much alcohol it can process at once. Drinking too much forces the liver to work harder, potentially leading to inflammation, scarring, or even cancer over time.
If you drink, experts recommend no more than one drink per day for women and two for men. The liver can heal minor alcohol-related damage within days or weeks, but severe damage may take months to recover. Over long periods, damage can become permanent.
To give your liver a rest, avoid alcohol for at least two consecutive days each week.
Ways to Prevent Liver Disease
Lifestyle changes can keep your liver healthy without detox programs. These steps are especially important if you’re at higher risk of liver disease due to factors like heavy alcohol use or a family history of liver issues.
Specifically:
- Limit your alcohol intake.
- Follow a balanced diet daily, including 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables, fiber from vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Ensure adequate protein for enzymes that naturally detoxify your body.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Exercise daily if possible.
- Minimize risky behaviors that could lead to viral hepatitis, such as not sharing razors, toothbrushes, or household items; getting tattoos only at sterile shops; and avoiding unprotected sex with unfamiliar partners.
Do Supplements Benefit Your Liver?
Milk thistle is an herb containing a compound called silybin. Some claim it enhances liver function and treats liver diseases, but there isn’t enough evidence to support this.
Some studies suggest milk thistle compounds reduce symptoms of certain liver conditions, but none show it can cure them. Turmeric, sometimes called the “golden spice,” may promote overall health and protect the liver from damage, though more research is needed to justify regular use.
Dandelion is also considered a natural remedy for various ailments, but further studies are required to confirm its effectiveness.
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