fbpx

Fruits for the liver

Fruits for the liver
Among the foods that can help protect against liver disease, fruits and nuts are among the best for the liver.

The liver is one of the most important organs of our body and a good and balanced diet, with quality food, allows us to protect it from any liver disease, as well as contributing to preventing the development of other diseases that may affect it, such as obesity. 

Within this group of foods that are highly beneficial for the body, fruits are among the most recommended for the liver, helping to reduce symptoms and cleanse the organ. Likewise, some fruits have components that assist in the absorption of nutrients and in the metabolization of digestive processes.

Best fruits for the liver

The best nuts for the liver are almonds, walnuts, and peanuts

Nuts and Dried Fruits

Nuts are among the best fruits for the liver out there because they can be found in great variety and have valuable nutrients that can help improve the condition of the liver organ. 

Most nuts are high in fiber and healthy fats, as well as omega-3, which helps with fat absorption in the body and helps control cholesterol. Another valuable nutrient in nuts that makes them good for the liver is vitamin E, for its antioxidant qualities.

All of this protects the body and liver from accumulating excess fat and the subsequent consequences this can bring, such as the development of obesity or diabetes.

In fact, in 2019 a study determined that people whose diets contain a higher percentage of nuts tend to have lower risks of suffering from fatty liver disease.

Some of the nuts that are most recommended and are also easily accessible to the majority of the population are:

  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Peanuts
  • Cashew
  • Hazelnuts

Although nuts are highly beneficial, they should be consumed in moderation since a small amount can be high in calories. Therefore, we recommend adding them as additions to yogurts, fruit salads, salads, and other recipes, or consuming them in whole grain granolas. 

Grapefruits, or pomelos, are citric and very bitter fruits that help the processing of fats

Grapefruit

Citrus fruits, for the most part, are excellent fruits for the liver, but perhaps one of the best is the grapefruit. 

Grapefruit is a critical bitter-tasting fruit popular with those passionate about healthy living. This is because grapefruit has high levels of antioxidants that naturally protect the liver. The two main components are naringenin and naringin.

These antioxidants have proven to be beneficial as they help reduce inflammation in the liver and also protect its cells from possible damage, preventing fibrosis and other chronic conditions from developing.

In addition, naringenin can help reduce fat levels and stimulates fat metabolizing enzymes to burn fat faster.

Blueberries are one of the best fruits for the liver because of their antioxidant quality

Cranberries and blueberries

Cranberries and blueberries are fruits or berries that, like grapefruit, contain very beneficial antioxidants, as well as anthocyanin, which gives them their characteristic color. Blueberries also contribute to improving the immune system and the production of antioxidant enzymes.

For the absorption of these components, the fruits can be consumed whole, or their extract or juice. Blueberries in particular, or blueberry extract, have proven to be effective in reducing the development of liver cancer, although more studies are needed to determine their effectiveness.

Avocado is a rich source of healthy fats and one of the most versatile fruits.

Avocados

Just like nuts, avocados are considered another source of healthy fats and one of the best fruits for the liver. Avocados are rich in fiber as well, which helps control the feeling of hunger and helps digest food more slowly.

In addition, it is one of the most versatile fruits there is since with it you can make desserts, salads, dressings, sauces, and more. 

It is important to establish that all diets vary according to the patient’s condition and other conditions that may prevent him/her from consuming any of these fruits. A good diet is usually enough to take care of the liver and our whole body, so it is always advisable to visit a nutritionist and consume fresh or frozen vegetables and fruits that provide us with the maximum of nutrients.

Verónica Guillén, writer
Content Intern Fundahígado América

Eugenia Jiménez Alvarez, proofreading
Assistant to the Fundahigado América coordination
Bachelor in Biomedical Sciences

Sources:

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on google
Share on linkedin

RECENT POSTS

Hepatic Complications

Explore the liver’s functions and learn to identify and manage complications. Discover modern treatments to preserve liver health and your overall well-being.

World Transplant Day: A Gift That Transforms Lives

A healthy organ from a living donor can transform the life of someone in need. World Transplant Day reminds us of the importance of living-donor organ donation, especially for liver transplantation, which offers a second chance to people with severe liver diseases.

The psychological impact of chronic liver diseases

This article sheds light on the connection between chronic liver diseases and mental health, highlighting the critical need for psychological support. Discover how to address these challenges and improve patients’ quality of life.

PATIENT STORIES

Génesis

Génesis is 3 years old and was born in Costa Rica with a congenital liver disease.

Elías

Elías is a young adolescent with an advanced liver disease.

Jin

Jin received a segment of his father´s liver in May 2015.