The liver is an important organ for our body's metabolism. An unhealthy liver not only harms our health but also affects the skin, leading to symptoms such as endocrine disorders, rough and dull skin. Autumn has always been a focus of health preservation, and traditional Chinese medicine believes that food is better than medicine for nourishing the liver. Only by eating the right foods can we effectively protect and nourish the liver. Below, we will list some foods that are good for liver health.
1. Soft-shelled turtle
Soft-shelled turtle is nourishing, heat-clearing, softening, and resolving. It is suitable for the diet of patients with hepatitis and liver cirrhosis. The turtle shell can be stir-fried with sand and then ground into powder after being tempered with vinegar. However, it has a high fat content and should not be consumed during acute liver inflammation. Dead fish should not be used as it can produce toxic histamines.
2. Bitter melon
Bitter melon is cooling when eaten raw and is used to relieve heat. When cooked, it can nourish the liver. My favorite dish is stir-fried bitter melon with eggs. However, it should not be consumed in large quantities as it can damage the stomach.
3. Duck
Duck is cool and nourishing, and it has the effect of nourishing yin. Hepatitis patients generally have yin deficiency and internal heat. Therefore, it is mentioned that hepatitis patients should not eat chicken (which is hot). Stewed whole duck with snow pear is a good dietary therapy for hepatitis patients.
4. Dairy products
Dairy products are mainly used to supplement protein, but yogurt is preferred because it can adjust the intestinal flora, promote toxin elimination, and stimulate interferon production, thereby enhancing immune function.
5. Strawberries
For people with excessive liver fire, strawberries not only nourish the liver but also have the ability to reduce liver fire. From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, strawberries are cool and slightly sour-sweet, which can nourish and protect the liver. Moreover, the red color of strawberries can reduce heart fire. In addition, strawberries are typical berries with rich vitamin C content, which helps the body absorb iron and nourishes cells. The natural anti-inflammatory components in strawberries can reduce the production of free radicals and keep brain cells active, helping to refresh the mind.
6. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and lycopene. People with abnormal liver function can often consume tomato and duck egg soup, which has nourishing yin effects and can be part of the daily diet for hepatitis patients.
7. Carrots
Carrots are slightly warm in nature, with a sweet and spicy taste. They are rich in vitamin A precursor (carotene) and volatile oil. Carrots are nutritious, aid digestion, and can be eaten raw or cooked. They have a good effect on improving the vitamin A level of liver disease patients and indirectly preventing the occurrence of cancer.
8. Soybeans and soy products
These foods are rich in protein, calcium, iron, phosphorus, and other trace elements. They are beneficial for liver repair, and regular consumption of mung beans can enhance liver detoxification function.
