Dr. Doan Vinh Binh from the Medical Information Center at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City explains that many antioxidants, especially anthocyanins found in berries, can reduce the risk of fatty liver disease and liver cancer.
Boxes of berries. Illustration photo by Unsplash |
According to him, here are six berries and fruits that benefit liver function:
1. Strawberries
Strawberries help regulate blood sugar, reduce insulin spikes after meals, contributing to the prevention of type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease. They are high in antioxidants like ellagic acid, which protect the liver from cell damage, reduce inflammation, and improve liver function.
2. Mulberries
Mulberries contain antioxidants that help the liver combat oxidative stress, lower cholesterol, and prevent fat accumulation. They also enhance fat metabolism, reducing the liver’s burden when processing toxins and excess fat.
3. Tomatoes
Tomatoes support detoxification and help prevent cirrhosis due to their chlorine and sulfur content, which stimulate detox functions. The antioxidant lycopene in tomatoes has strong anti-oxidative properties that prevent cell damage. Tomato juice, rich in vitamin C, enhances antioxidant effectiveness and overall health.
4. Grapes
Grapes have anti-inflammatory properties and increase antioxidant levels in the body, contributing to the prevention of liver damage. Eating whole grapes regularly helps maintain stable liver function and maximizes their health benefits.
5. Goji berries
Goji berries are packed with antioxidants such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, glutathione, and butyric acid. These compounds promote glutathione production, reduce inflammation, and protect liver cells, boosting overall liver health.
6. Raspberries
Raspberries contain cyanidin, anthocyanins, and polyphenolic compounds that protect the liver from damage. They also support lipid metabolism and bile acid synthesis, regulate inflammation, enhance gut microbiome function, and help prevent fatty liver diseases, especially non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
In addition to these fruits, turmeric, garlic, and fatty fish like salmon and mackerel also support liver health. Turmeric contains curcumin, which reduces inflammation and aids liver detoxification, while garlic stimulates enzymes that eliminate toxins. Fatty fish provide omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for the liver. Natural extracts such as S. Marianum and Wasabia help regulate liver Kupffer cells, enhance detoxification, and protect against liver diseases.
Anyone experiencing symptoms to liver health should consult a gastroenterologist or hepatologist for proper screening and treatment.