The liver is one of the most important detox organs in the body, helping to filter blood so that toxins, bacteria, and fungi can be shuttled to the kidneys for excretion.
However, many people this day in age consume foods that compromise liver function. These foods include alcohol, coffee, artificial food additives, preservatives, dairy products, pesticides, prescription drugs, environmental toxins, high-fat foods, refined sugar, etc.
Reducing consumption of these foods, and supplementing with others that strengthen liver function will dramatically improve your health.
Dandelion greens are considered a bitter leafy green (and they taste just so). This bitterness helps activate the digestive system, increase bile flow, and therefore helps cleanse the liver and gallbladder. Dandelion has the ability to reduce water retention, relieve skin problems (which often occur as a result of poor liver function), alkalize the blood, reduce allergies and improve the immune system.
Beets are another powerful liver food, providing the body with phytonutrients that are efficient at cleaning out toxins, and protect the liver and bile ducts. Beets also contain betalains, which support Phase 2 detoxification steps in the liver, as well as inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes, which lessen aches and pains in the body.
It is always best to choose organic ingredients when you can, especially with apples. You can find dandelion greens in your backyard if it hasn’t been sprayed with pesticides or herbicides in the last 3 years, otherwise, most health food stores sell dandelion greens (in Canada I can find dandelion greens in stores like Save-On-Foods or Safeway).
Always keep in mind that detoxification begins when you STOP putting harmful foods into your body.
Dandelion Beetroot Juice Recipe
Ingredients: (serves 1)
– 2 large beets, peeled
– 2 apples
– 2 cups packed dandelion greens
– 1 lemon, peeled
– 1 inch fresh ginger root
Method:
Run all of the above ingredients through a juicer and enjoy immediately!
