The liver requires certain nutrients for detox. In addition, increasing the flow of bile is an important part of detox because bile carries stored fat-soluble toxins away from the liver to be excreted in the stools.
Signs of poor bile flow include constipation aggravated by fiber supplements, flatulence, dry skin and hair, indigestion 1-2 hours after eating, indigestion after fatty foods and small, hard stools.
Multivitamin
Choose a high-potency multivitamin with selenium, molybdenum, and zinc.
Choline and Methionine
Known as lipotropic factors, the supplements choline and methionine help to regulate fat metabolism and increase bile flow.
Vitamin C
A water-soluble vitamin, vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports detox. It may also help to decrease some of the side effects of detox, such as headache or nausea.
Milk Thistle
This herb has many positive effects on the liver. It is an antioxidant, assists in liver cell regeneration, and is used after exposure to chemical and industrial pollutants or adverse effects from excess alcohol or fat consumption.
Artichokes
Contains plant compounds known as caffeoylquinic acids, which increase the flow of bile and help to digest fats.
Beets
Beets contain betaine, which promotes the regeneration of liver cells and the flow of bile. It also has a beneficial effect on fat metabolism.
Broccoli
Broccoli and other members of the brassica family (cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, kholrabi) support the liver's detoxification enzymes.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Food sources of vitamin C and glutathione, which are essential for detox.
Protein
Protein is required by the liver for detox. Beans, nuts, seeds, quinoa, protein powder. Some people may choose to eat fish in moderation.
Onions and Garlic
Rich in sulfur-containing compounds. Involved in sulfation, the main detox pathway for environmental chemicals and certain drugs and food additives. Helps with the elimination of harmful heavy metals from the body.
Dandelion Root
Increases the flow of bile. Can be taken as a tea.
