A fatty liver cleansing diet aims to reduce and eliminate the accumulation of fat in the liver. Fatty liver is the most common liver disease in the United States, affecting 2 to 5 percent of the population. These numbers are significantly higher in patients with type 2 diabetes and people who are overweight or obese. Conditions such as hyperinsulinemia, hypertension, and various metabolic disorders may also be contributing factors.
The best treatment for patients with fatty liver is still a matter of debate. Potential remedies currently being tested include things like milk thistle supplements, vitamin E and vitamin C supplements, Epsom salt liver rinses, and various medications like orlistat, metformin, and atorvastatin, to name just a few.
Many of these treatment methods focus on powerful antioxidants intended to protect the liver or repair damaged hepatocytes (liver cells). However, while the above methods remain highly debated, most medical professionals agree that diet and exercise are one of the key weapons in delaying and reversing the condition.
A diet to cleanse the liver of fat must first focus on not aggravating the problem. This means that a proper diet should be low in fat to begin with. Less fat intake means less fat is available to reach the liver. It is generally recommended that no more than 30% of daily calories come from fat calories.
To reduce fat in your liver, you should focus on eating lean white meats, such as chicken and turkey, rather than darker, fatty meats, such as beef and pork. Always trim off any excess fat before cooking or eating. If you fry foods, use oil sparingly. Also avoid eating processed meats like hot dogs and hot dogs.
Although a glass of wine a day has been shown to be beneficial for liver function in some studies, alcohol consumption for the most part should be avoided in alcoholic and nonalcoholic patients with fatty liver disease. The ethanol in alcohol limits the release of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) into the bloodstream, which can cause more fatty acids to build up in the liver. Water and raw fruit and vegetable juices are excellent and healthy alternatives.
High-glycemic foods, such as white rice and white bread, raise blood sugar quickly and should be avoided. Foods that contain complex carbohydrates like brown rice and whole grains are a good alternative. Fiber-rich foods are also recommended to aid in digestion. A 1,200 to 1,500 calorie diet can help you lose weight while providing the nutrition you need to maintain healthy liver function.