3. Blueberries and Cranberries
Blueberries and cranberries contain a category of antioxidants called anthocyanins. Beyond giving the berries their distinct colors, these antioxidants have been connected to several liver health benefits.
Eating blueberries and cranberries daily for 3-4 weeks has been shown to protect the liver by preventing the development of lesions, scar tissue, and fibrosis. Blueberries in particular increase immune cell response as well as antioxidant enzymes. Blueberry extract also inhibits the growth of liver cancer cells in test tube studies, but more research in humans is necessary.
4. Grapes
Grapes, especially red varieties, contain several beneficial plant compounds. The one you’ve probably heard about is resveratrol, otherwise known as a great excuse to drink red wine. Resveratrol helps the liver by reducing inflammation and protecting against damage by free radicals. Regular consumption is thought to lower your risk of developing cancer, too.
A small research study in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) indicated that daily consumption of grape seed extract over three months improved their liver function. Of course, grape seed extract is way more concentrated than what you’d get in whole grapes, or wine for that matter.
5. Prickly Pear
Prickly pear is actually a type of edible cactus. You may not be able to find it at your local grocery store, but it’s worth a look because this interesting fruit has been shown to reduce the symptoms of a hangover. Study participants reported feeling less nausea, dry mouth, and overall misery if they drank some prickly pear extract before consuming alcohol.
A hangover indicates a liver struggling to process the amount of alcohol it has been given. Prickly pear extract seems to decrease the oxidative damage that the liver sustains after heavy drinking, as well as helps to keep antioxidant and inflammation levels stable.
But beyond being a potential boon to college kids everywhere, prickly pear has long been used in holistic medicine to treat liver disease as well as ulcers, wounds, and fatigue.
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