The liver is one of the hardest working organs in the body, being at the forefront of the body’s natural defense system. Working to detoxify blood that comes through the digestive tract, the liver essentially decides what is nutritious and what is waste. Let it be known that this is no easy task, and the liver requires assistance from foods that enhance its functionality.
Based on the increased amount of liver disease cases within recent years, it is evident that the combination of more environmental pollutants and poor diet is not doing the liver any favors. We advise making the conscious effort to incorporate liver-boosting foods into your diet, and to make small dietary changes for the sake of the liver. Enter beets into the equation.
Beets are some of the most antioxidant-rich vegetables, containing nutrients that have been proven to have cleansing and detoxifying abilities. Two of these nutrients are pectin and betaine. The former is a fiber that clears toxins that have been removed by the liver, while the latter assist liver cells with the toxin elimination. They are also rich in anti-inflammatory properties that encourage healthy detoxification.
Beets Push Out Toxins
The phytonutrients in beets are known as betalains, and they support the liver during detoxification process. As the liver detoxifies certain toxins from the body, it is possible to experience an imbalance of hormones, energy, and cholesterol levels. The phytonutrients help to keep the balance during the detoxification process.
Beets Improve Liver Function
Not only do beets aid detoxification, but they also are one of the liver’s best resources for optimal function. The B-vitamins, iron, calcium, betaine, and other antioxidants in beets help to improve liver function by thinning the bile, making it easier for it flow freely from the liver to the small intestine. According to the American Liver Foundation, beets should be consumed by anyone who is trying to heal liver disease.
Beets And Beyond
While beets are essential for maintaining a healthy liver, diversifying your nutritional intake is encouraged for improving liver function. Many foods contain nutrients that help to cleanse the liver and support overall liver health. Other foods that boost liver health include licorice root, turmeric, lemons, cabbage, apples, celery, cinnamon, artichokes, and oats. Herbalists often recommend dandelion root and burdock root for optimal liver health.
Incorporating Beets Into Your Diet
In order to add beets to your diet, you have to know the best ways to prepare them. Beets can be roasted, spiralized, grated, shaved, steamed, juiced, or baked. The leaves should not be thrown away because they are rich in folate, fiber, iron, and other essential nutrients. See the following recipes to learn how to incorporate beets into your diet.
Beet Hummus
This isn’t your average dip. The flavors in this hummus are un-beet-ably delicious and you’ll find yourself coming back for more, one dip at a time.
Click here to make the recipe.
Beet & Berry Juice
Give your liver a helping hand by drinking this juice, which is filled with nutrients that help to optimize liver function.
Click here to make the recipe.
Beet, Carrot, And Apple Salad
Beet the heat (haha!) with the refreshing flavors in this salad of julienned carrots, beets, and apples. You’ll absolutely love it.
Click here to make the recipe.
Beet Pizza Crust
This raw pizza is filled with powerful earthy flavor combinations. If you’re craving pizza after you finish cleansing, make this recipe.
Click here to make the recipe.
Beet And Berry Ice Pops
These ice pops are a refreshing take on dessert. You can enjoy them without worrying about unnecessary calories that are in normal desserts.
Click here to make the recipe.
