When people think about the most important organs in their body, they often think of the heart and the lungs. Of course, the heart is a critical organ; it pumps the blood which delivers oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. And the lungs, breathe in the air which contains the oxygen we need to survive.

However, the liver is equally as important as the heart and lungs. Why? Excellent question. One of the liver’s main functions in the body is to remove toxins. These toxins can take many forms: metals, pesticides, alcohol, chemicals, and free radicals among many, many others. This organ works tirelessly to reduce the level of toxins in our body on a daily basis; in fact, it works 24 hours to cleanse the body.

To reduce the risk of chronic diseases, heighten energy levels, and increase the body’s overall health and function, it’s imperative to support the liver. While certain foods and beverages can support the liver, detoxing and cleansing the liver is an excellent habit to ensure the liver is functionally optimal.

Over time, toxins can build up in the liver decreasing its effectiveness. Cleansing and detoxing the liver allow this vital organ to reboot and once again perform at its highest possible levels. Wondering if it’s time to detoxify your liver? Here are some signs that your liver may be stressed and be in need of some TLC:

- Lack of energy
- Mild to moderate headaches
- Instances of brain fogginess
- Sleep issues including insomnia and restlessness
- Digestive issues including gas and constipation
- Resurgence of acne
- Skin rashes
- Inflammation
- Weight gain

If you’ve been experiencing one or more of these symptoms on a regular basis, it may be time to invest in a quality liver cleanse. Here are several healthy ways to clean and detox your liver. And here is the secret: cleansing your liver is relatively easy. It simply requires dedication and persistence: your health is worth it. While you can purchase one-stop-shop cleansing products, you can additionally work to detox your liver through the following avenues; it’s best to combine as many as you can at once to provide the best results.

Detoxify with Hydration

Water is an absolutely necessary aspect of any cleanse; increasing your water intake allows the body to increase its ability to exit toxins from the body through urine and sweat. Many adults barely drink the recommended eight glasses of water daily. If you can not only increase to eight glasses but surpass this number, you’ll be directly aiding the liver in its ability to remove toxins from the body. In addition to water, several studies support the ability of green tea to directly support the liver. This refreshing tea contains compounds called catechins, which are antioxidants. Catechins help the liver by targeting free radicals, which the liver works to remove from the body. If you can, aim to enjoy at least one if not two or three cups of green tea daily.

Detoxify with Foods

While water and green tea help the liver, several specific foods can support the liver as well. Dark, leafy greens offer very high amounts of compounds known as flavonoids. These compounds work directly in the body to cleanse the liver and remove toxins the liver has stored to safeguard the body. Raw garlic is another excellent option. Consider adding a bit to sandwiches and salads, and sprinkle some over your favorite lunch or dinner dishes. Garlic possesses a compound called allicin which helps the liver as well. While cooked garlic does retain some allicin, fresh garlic is the best option.

Detoxify with Probiotics

Probiotics have basked in numerous good press recently, hailing their ability to maintain a positive balance of good bacteria in the body. Many research studies prove probiotics additionally work to help the liver in the body. Several studies support these tiny organisms’ ability to reduce liver disease! When selecting a probiotic, it’s important to look for both quality and diversity. A good probiotic will contain several strains of different organisms. And remember: it’s best to take probiotics at night; these organisms are sensitive and call fall prey to acidic environments—avoid taking them with a morning cup of coffee.

Detoxify with Herbs

Many herbalists and naturopaths have been strengthening the liver for centuries with specific herbs. One of the best herbs that cleanse the liver is milk thistle. Studies prove that this herb can repair damaged liver cells. Liver cells can be damaged through a variety of means including alcohol and certain medications. Other helpful herbs include dandelion root and turmeric. Many of these herbs may be enjoyed as part of a meal (turmeric is a key ingredient in many curries); however, they can also be enjoyed in capsule or tea form. It’s best to provide the body with an effective dose, so combining supplemental forms with tea may be ideal during a liver cleanse.

Beginning a liver detox may be daunting, but fear not—anyone can do it! And if doing all these things seems difficult, begin supporting your liver’s health one aspect at a time. First, try to drink more water and exercise a bit more to allow the liver the means to remove toxins from the body. Next, try drinking a bit more green tea.

While you maintain increased hydration, modify the foods you eat and try adding a few herbal supplements along with your daily vitamin. In no time the signs of your stressed liver will disappear and you’ll be feeling years younger.