The liver is the main detoxification and metabolic organ of the human body, which can protect the body from harm and prolong life by keeping the liver healthy. During the process of liver care and protection, diet should be especially noted. It is essential to understand what the liver likes to eat and dislikes. Otherwise, it may not only be conducive to physical health but also lead to changes in diseases. Especially in autumn, the dry weather can easily lead to excessive liver heat and the occurrence of liver diseases. Therefore, in this season, we should pay more attention to diet and care for the liver.
When nurturing the liver, the overall nutritional principle is moderate intake of protein, low consumption of fat, and rich in vitamins. Protein is essential but should not be excessive. Lean meats, fish, dairy products, peanuts, and legumes can be consumed. High fat intake can increase the burden on the liver, so it is advisable to choose low-fat and low-cholesterol foods in daily diet.
The following are some foods that the liver prefers to eat:
1. Lychee According to the Compendium of Materia Medica, lychee has the effect of strengthening the liver and pancreas, and has outstanding effects on enhancing energy and blood. However, excessive consumption may cause nosebleeds, toothaches, and easily lead to excessive internal heat.
2. Chinese yam Chinese yam has a sweet taste and a moderate nature, with effects such as nourishing the liver, moistening the lungs, enhancing qi, tonifying the kidneys, and solidifying essence. It can be cooked as a porridge with dates, Chinese yam, millet, and pea pods to invigorate the spleen, nourish the liver, strengthen the stomach, nourish yin, and moisturize dryness.
3. Onion Onions not only have antibacterial properties but also can lower blood lipids and prevent arteriosclerosis.
4. Pig’s blood According to the Compendium of Materia Medica, pig’s blood has detoxifying effects and can be used for conditions such as stroke, dizziness, fullness in the chest and abdomen, and various ulcers. Regular consumption of pig’s blood soup maintains liver function, which is essential.
5. Sweet potato Sweet potatoes can neutralize excess acids produced in the body from excessive consumption of meat and eggs, maintain the acid-base balance in the body, and have a lipid-lowering effect.
6. Japanese plum Eating Japanese plum is a way to prevent hangovers and also strengthens the liver. In the morning, if you feel unwell, it is advisable to drink Japanese plum decoction with sugar.
7. Watermelon Watermelon has the functions of clearing heat, detoxification, relieving irritability, quenching thirst, diuresis, and lowering blood pressure, rich in sugars, vitamins, and protease. Protease can convert insoluble proteins into soluble proteins.
8. Chinese chives Eating a moderate amount of warm Chinese chives can enhance the body’s yang energy, improve liver and spleen functions.
The above are several foods that are beneficial for nourishing and caring for the liver. Regular consumption not only helps to detoxify the liver and reduce liver heat but also allows the other health benefits of these foods to be absorbed and utilized by the body. They are very beneficial for the body, especially during the current autumn and winter seasons when attention should be paid to health to prevent illness.
