how to make strong liver - #39200
I am really trying to figure out how to make strong liver health a priority in my life lately. A few months ago, I had this awful fatigue and stomach pains. After visiting my doctor, they told me my liver enzyme levels were a bit off, which scared me, honestly. Ever since then, I’ve been reading up on what I can do to improve my liver health, like eating better and maybe incorporating some herbal remedies, but I am kinda lost. I mean, I heard things like turmeric and milk thistle might help, but how do those actually work? Should I be taking supplements, or is it better to, you know, just eat whole foods? I've also been trying to drink more water and cut out alcohol, thinking that’s got to help somehow, right? But I still feel kinda overwhelmed. I wanna know how to make strong liver function part of my daily routine without feeling like it’s too much! Is there a specific diet I should be looking at more closely? Any tips for healthy snacks or meals? And what about exercise? Does that really play a part in it? I’m just feeling a bit frustrated and I don't want to feel like this forever! Anyone out there with experience on how to make strong liver health a reality? Your input would be massively appreciated!
Doctor-recommended remedies for this condition

Doctors' responses
First off, it’s crucial to understand the liver’s role – detoxification, protein synthesis, digestion aid – making it central to health. In Ayurveda, liver is mainly governed by the Pitta dosha. An imbalance, often signaled by the symptoms you’re experiencing, suggests the need for pacifying this dosha.
Diet forms the backbone of an effective plan for strong liver health. Emphasis on consuming whole, fresh, and organic foods is essential. Incorporate foods with bitter tastes, like leafy greens (kale, spinach), which help detoxify and cool Pitta. Foods that are cooling and hydrating, such as cucumbers and lettuce, are beneficial too.
Herbal remedies like turmeric and milk thistle certainly support liver health. Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, has liver-protective properties by reducing inflammation and aiding in detoxification. Include turmeric in curries, homemade golden milk, or simply warm in water daily. Milk thistle is revered for its active ingredient, silymarin, which aids in liver regeneration and repair; consider a standardized supplement, if feasible. But ensure any supplementation aligns with a healthcare provider’s recommendations to avoid contraindications with other medications or conditions.
Hydration – continuing your practice of ample water intake is essential, aiding in flushing toxins. Reducing alcohol is also beneficial.
Exercise invigorates liver health by improving circulation and metabolism. Moderate exercises like walking, yoga, or swimming support liver function without aggravating Pitta. Opt for 30 minutes, five times weekly, enhancing both physical and mental health.
Ayurvedic guidelines promote a routine — dining at the same times each day, ample sleep, and practicing mindfulness or meditation. These habits regulate and ground the Pitta dosha.
Snacks that are liver-friendly might include fruit like pears or apples, seeds like flax or chia, or even avocados. Limit heavy, spicy, or oily foods as they can overburden the liver and escalate Pitta imbalance.
Though it’s easy to get overwhelmed, remember to implement changes gradually. Consistency matters more for long-term liver health than a sudden overhaul of lifestyle.
To support your liver health, especially with slightly elevated liver enzyme levels, focus on several key areas: diet, herbs, and lifestyle adjustments. Start with your diet, as this will have a most immediate impact. Favor a “Sattvic” diet, which emphasizes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, while minimizing processed foods, greasy or spicy foods, and sugars. This helps maintain digestive agni and supports the liver’s natural detoxification processes.
You mentioned turmeric and milk thistle. Turmeric is indeed beneficial due to curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can be used in cooking or as a tea. With turmeric, ensure a source of fat (like milk) to improve absorption. Milk thistle is traditionally used in Siddha-Ayurveda for liver support; though, consult with a qualified practitioner before starting as, direct dosage depends on your constitution (prakriti).
Including bitter greens like dandelion and leafy vegetables in your diet can enhance liver function. They’re rich in nutrients and aid detoxification. Avoid alcohol and smoking, as these can aggravate any liver issues.
Hydration is crucial; continue with your practice of drinking sufficient water, which helps flush out toxins. If you’re inclined to exercise, moderate activities like yoga or brisk walking can be beneficial. Exercise enhances circulation and the movement of energy channels (nadis), reducing stress on the liver.
Since your liver enzymes are already a bit high, seek regular monitoring and, if necessary, a healthcare professional for a customized plan. Implementing these steps steadily without overloading yourself will bolster your liver and your overall health.

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.
