The liver is the key organ when it comes to detoxification of the body. Precisely for this reason it is essential to protect it and take care of its health, avoiding an accumulation of toxins in the liver and stimulating detox processes. Some foods are able, more than others, to perform this very important function and this is what we are talking about today based on the results of a very recent scientific research. The study was published in the journal Nutrients by an American team (Ayyadurai et al, Nutrients, 2023).
Toxins in our body
Our body is continuously targeted by toxins, which are found in what we eat, what we breathe but which are also produced by internal processes in the body. In fact, examples of toxins are heavy metals, but also environmental pollutants, free radicals generated by stress conditions or electromagnetic radiation, substances released by bacteria and those contained in medicines. It is therefore important to have a well-functioning detoxification mechanism. But fortunately, we are well equipped with this thanks to the incessant and tireless work of the liver.
The liver and its detoxifying action
As mentioned, the liver is the key organ when it comes to eliminating toxins from the body. Indeed, most of the detox processes in the body take place in the liver. These processes are very complex and involve multiple steps. Any disruption in any of these steps can lead to a buildup of toxins. Hence the importance of preserving the action of the liver and supporting it in its detoxification function.
Apples, grapefruit and broccoli with a detox action, the study
There is a natural substance, called D glucaric acid, which has shown, on the basis of previous studies, a powerful hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer action, also capable of lower cholesterol. This substance occurs naturally in apples, grapefruit, alpha alpha sprouts, oranges, peaches, apricots, cherries, spinach, vegetables of the Brassicaceae family, therefore cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and broccoli, but also green peppers and cucumbers. Always previous studies had shown that D-glucaric acid is able to stimulate the purification and detoxification processes in the liver. Today's study has clearly demonstrated this action, specifying the mechanisms that make it possible. In particular, through computer simulations, it has been possible to observe that D-glucaric acid stimulates the detox action of the liver by protecting its cells from the action of free radicals, reducing the production of free radicals, the apoptosis, namely the programmed death of liver cells, and the damage to the liver caused by circulating waste substances.
Liver health and muscle health
And finally one more piece of news, which emerges from today's study. The health of the liver also depends on the health of the muscles! In fact, a healthy liver that performs its detoxification function properly counteracts the loss of muscle mass that can lead to sarcopenia. One more reason to enrich your diet with cherries, apricots, peaches, but also apples, especially of the Gala variety, the richest in glucaric acid, but also broccoli, tomatoes and cucumbers.
