The risk of liver damage increases dramatically after the age of 40. Thankfully, there are ways to boost liver health. Seniors can use the following tips to enhance the health of this vital organ.
1. Eat Detoxifying Foods
Lemons convert toxins and stimulate enzyme release. The vitamin C in lemons also boosts the production of glutathione, an antioxidant the liver requires to detox the body. The vitamin C in lemons also thins bile, which lessens the workload on the liver while it breaks down fats. Other detoxifying foods include garlic, broccoli, apples, beets, and leafy green vegetables.
If your loved one needs help shopping for groceries and preparing nutritious meals, consider hiring a home caregiver. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality senior care. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
2. Use Purifying Herbs
Turmeric contains a high level of curcumin, a compound that combats liver cancer, reduces liver fibroids, and maintains overall liver health. Scientists have found turmeric has even regenerated the livers of lab rats with diabetes. Other herbs that enhance liver health include artichoke leaf, milk thistle, burdock root, and dandelion.
3. Avoid Harmful Products
Dairy products, vegetable oils, and meat contain fats that cause sluggish liver function. The liver also has to work harder to process caffeine, sugar, refined flour products, GMO foods, and alcohol. Avoid airborne chemicals as well as harmful minerals found in drinking water by using faucet filters and air purifiers to ease the filtering process controlled by the liver, and make sure prescription and over-the-counter medications are taken only when necessary to avoid damaging the liver.
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4. Exercise Regularly
Moderate cardiovascular exercise and light strength training reduce body fat and boost the immune system, which ultimately means better liver health. Performing exercises that focus on the liver itself, such as gently pressing and rubbing under the ribs or sitting upright and turning the trunk from left to right with palms on the lower belly, promotes activity in the liver.
If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care. Columbia Assisting Hands Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call us today.
