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The liver is the second-largest organ in the human body, and its primary function is to relieve us of waste and toxins. It filters the blood that comes from the digestive system, and it is responsible for processing proteins, carbohydrates, and medication.

A healthy liver stores normal amounts of iron in the body and controls our blood sugar from rising or dropping to dangerous levels. It also produces bile, a digestive juice that disintegrates fats to ease digestion and ensure that the body absorbs the necessary nutrients.

Despite its important role in ensuring our system is free from contamination, the liver is one of the most overworked parts of the system.

The average person unknowingly risks exposure to toxins on any given day. These sources range from something as mild as chewing gum to more severe pollutants, like inhaling factory smoke.

Other factors that threaten your liver’s capacity include:

  • pollution
  • sweets
  • junk food
  • fatty food
  • alcohol

Regular exposure to metals may introduce excessive levels of mercury to your blood or urine. The liver processes these compounds to prevent harmful chemicals from spreading. You may not even be aware of exposure to or ingestion of excessive toxins, as it seems an invariable part of our daily grind.

What you may not realize is these harmful elements place your liver in a precarious state. Your liver will need to work twice as hard to detoxify your system, slowing down your its performance and leading to further health risks in the long term.

Given the health risks, it is only prudent to keep your liver healthy to avoid serious illnesses. One of the most common ways to do so is through detoxing.

This article will walk you through the best liver cleanse methods and alternatives, as well as what you can expect from the cleansing process.


1. What Is Liver Support Plus?

Liver Support Plus Review

Liver Support Plus is a supplement developed and sold by VitaPost. It contains only natural ingredients that are safe for human consumption, which helps reduce possible side effects. The company has chosen several herbs and botanicals that show potential benefits in protecting the liver from damage.

This supplement’s primary goal is to support liver health and function, leading to more effective detox, lower cholesterol, and better metabolic function. Ideally, this is a supplement that you'll take daily for as long as your body needs.

Using this product won't completely make up for poor diet or other potential factors that can contribute to liver disease. However, a supplement like Liver Support Plus can boost your current liver function and help your liver recover from the occasional overindulgence of fatty foods or alcoholic binges.

Before deciding to try out a new product, it's always a good idea to evaluate the pros and cons. Understanding the product can help you figure out whether it's the right supplement for you and your particular needs.

PROS

  • All-natural ingredients
  • High-quality ingredients
  • Supports a healthy liver

CONS

  • Not tested by the FDA
  • Zinc levels too high?

2. Natures Craft Liver Support

Liver Cleanse Detox & Repair Formula - Herbal Liver Support Supplement with Milk Thistle Dandelion Root Organic Turmeric and Artichoke Extract for Liver Health - Silymarin Milk Thistle Detox Capsu...

Nature’s Craft Liver Support dietary supplement assists in increasing blood flow around the body. This improved blood flow enables the gut to detox more effectively as the toxins are flushed away. The brain also benefits from better blood flow resulting in better concentration and alertness. 

The natural ingredients in Nature’s Craft Liver Support include milk thistle, dandelion root, celery, and artichoke. As a member of the daisy family milk thistle is known to help liver repair and promote new cell production. Milk thistle has also been associated with lowering cholesterol, strengthening anti-aging, and improving general skin tone and health. 

Dandelion root is associated with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties particularly in the urinary tract. These dual capacities ward off many of the minor threats the body faces. 

Artichoke boosts liver support, and at the same time stimulates blood flow from the liver. Artichoke is now, incidentally, well documented as a powerful agent to reduce hangovers. 

All the ingredients of Nature’s Craft Liver Support are natural and high quality, containing no gluten, dairy, gelatin or artificial flavours. 

Nature’s Craft Liver Support is effective from the inside out. By optimising liver function and detoxifying the gut the body is much more effective in governing its own physiology and your well-being. Combined with a healthy diet and exercise the supplement will naturally help your body to synchronise. 

PROS

  • Improves blood flow – to benefit the liver & gut 
  • Promotes new cell production in the liver 
  • Natural, high-quality ingredients 
  • No artificial ingredients

CONS

  • Works best with regular exercise

3. Life Extension Milk Thistle

While the advantages of milk thistle in improving liver function are no longer disputed the availability of the active ingredients when taken orally don’t inspire such confidence. Essentially the milk thistle compound isn’t very water soluble, so the transfer of the active ingredients through the gut to the liver can be hit and miss. 

Life Extension Advanced Thistle have worked to innovate around this problem. They have been working in the supplement market for the past 40 years, so have good experience in product improvement. The solution is to use a phospholipid, a kind of fat molecule which attaches to the active ingredients of milk thistle enabling it to pass into the bloodstream and effectively onto the liver. 

Once the milk thistle extract arrives at the liver its phytonutrient compounds start to work, improving cell division and scavenging free radicals, which can be so harmful to cell biology. 

Every day, the liver is subjected to a succession of oxidising compounds and other toxins. Once weakened by overwork or overuse, such as with alcohol the liver struggles to recover and enters a gradual decline. This is where a supplement can really help to redress the balance. 

Life Extension are members of the NSF GMP Registration Program, which ensures the company works to facility level certification based on principles set down by the FDA. 

PROS

  • Milk thistle scientifically proven to aid liver function 
  • Better absorption than similar products 
  • Targeted ingredients are more effective

CONS

  • Works exclusively on the liver

4. Arazo Nutrition Liver Cleanse

Liver Cleanse Detox & Repair Formula – Milk Thistle Herbal Support Supplement: Silymarin, Beet, Artichoke, Dandelion, Chicory Root – Arazo Nutrition

Arazo Nutrition Liver Cleanse supplement contains a complex array of natural herbs, plants, and seeds to clean and detox the liver function. Milk thistle and choline are two of the primary ingredients. Milk thistle is renowned with herbalists for its restorative properties on the liver. Overly toxified and fatty livers are effectively brought back under control by milk thistle.  

Choline is an essential nutrient in human metabolism. It plays many functions in the control of cell membranes and the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. For this reason, choline is often associated with improved memory, mood, and other brain functions.  

Burdock root has a long history of use as an effective antioxidant. While burdock root and    yellow dock together combine strength in treating conditions such as skin disorders, inflammation, liver toxicity, and regular digestion problems. Herbalists routinely turn to yellow dock when dealing with patients with poor liver function or toxicity. 

Other active ingredients include berberine and alfalfa. The latter controls the absorption of sugar into the blood and can help to moderate ‘sugar highs’ and their resultant mood swings. Berberine is a long-standing herbal remedy for high cholesterol and high blood pressure. 

Arazo Nutrition Liver Cleanse is manufactured in the United States and with GMP certification. This means the company can prove they are upholding the regulations of local government and their products are manufactured to high quality standards.  

PROS

  • Liver Cleanse Detox & Repair Formula 
  • Comprehensive number of active ingredients 
  • Manufactured in the USA under  
  • GMP certification

CONS

  • May experience mild intestine of discomfort

5. Naturenetics Liver Smart

Liver Cleanse Detox & Repair Formula | Quality Liver Support Supplement with Milk Thistle & Silymarin +5 Extra Liver Health Ingredients | Vegan, Non-GMO, Lab Tested, USA Made | 60 Caps (1)

Naturenetics Liver Smart supplement has been developed as a targeted support to improve liver function. The liver has long been held to function right at the centre of a whole host of physiological processes, so that keeping your liver working in optimum condition is paramount. 

With no visible symptoms identifying problems with liver function can be difficult however most people’s sense of gut feeling is always a good choice. It is quite common to experience that your liver is being negatively affected and overworked. In response Naturenetics Liver Smart is designed to support your liver, improving liver function, maintaining liver enzymes and overall health. 

Each capsule of Liver Smart contains 250mg of best quality milk thistle extract. This is the most effective ingredient in the supplement, so utmost care is taken in its harvesting and processing. The milk thistle is grown in Europe and a patented, temperature-controlled process is used to extract the active ingredients from the seeds ensuring the high quality of the final product. 

The active ingredient in the milk thistle is silymarin, which has long been used in conventional medicine in the treatment of hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver. It is thought the silymarin has strong antioxidant properties as well as being able to scavenge free radicals. 

This demonstrates milk thistle as a safe, tried, and tested product to improve liver function. 

PROS

  • Milk Thistle is a proven aid to liver function 
  • Extraction process ensures high-quality active ingredients 
  • Manufactured by a reputable US company

CONS

  • Limited use with other illnesses

Are Liver Cleanses A Good Idea?

Much like other cleanses such as colon cleansing, a liver detox provides numerous benefits when administered correctly. Some of these are weight loss, a stronger immune system, clearer skin, and more energy.

Your body sends signals to let you know when it’s time to flush your liver, most of which we ignore or mistake for typical occurrences. It is not always easy to understand that these are indicators of a stressed liver unless you become more tune with your body.

The most common symptoms are:

  • chronic fatigue and low energy levels
  • hormonal imbalances (or premenstrual syndrome for women)
  • bloating around the stomach area, especially after eating
  • gassiness
  • frequent constipation
  • heightened seasonal allergies
  • reduced amount and quality of sleep

Experiencing one or two of these symptoms does not automatically mean your liver is in danger, and you may be suffering for other reasons. However, it is still beneficial to look out for these signs and note patterns. You can also have yourself checked by a medical professional before or begin searching for the best liver cleanse techniques.

A more specific sign that calls for a liver cleanse is increased sensitivity to common chemicals. If you suddenly become allergic to pesticides, gasoline for your car, laundry detergents, glues and adhesives, or even typical cleaning agents, you may want to consider a liver detox.

If you are in a reasonably healthy physical state and merely want to refresh your system, a liver cleanse could provide positive results. However, if you are suffering from pre-existing ailments, it is best to consult your primary healthcare provider before undergoing any cleansing procedure.

A liver cleanse can result in life-threatening consequences, especially for immunocompromised folks, so we recommend ruling out underlying problems with your internal health before flushing your liver.


How Does A Liver Cleanse Work? 

You can perform a liver cleanse in multiple ways, but it is always ideal to go the natural route. There are many over-the-counter supplements that claim to restore your liver to its prime, but the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t always regulate these products. 

The liver is a vital organ with the natural ability to detoxify itself without the help of supplements. The best liver cleanse is a commitment to a healthier lifestyle

Most wellness enthusiasts consider fasting as the first step to a liver cleanse—the duration depends on the diet you maintain. Within the fasting period, you can ingest liquids, such as green tea, and plenty of water. You can then start easing in solids. 

Be careful not to reintroduce salty, sugary, and fat-rich food and beverages into your fasting period. These substances could do more harm than good to your liver, especially when it’s undergoing a cleanse. Instead, include liver-friendly selections into your diet, such as vegetables, certain fruits, and nuts.  

Staying on top of your diet will produce far better results, improving your overall health. 

If you are uncomfortable with fasting for a day or two, start by lessening the ingestion of unhealthy food and replacing it with more nourishing options. It will improve not only your liver’s performance but your digestive tract and colon, as well. 


What Foods Cleanse Your Liver Naturally?

Transitioning into a healthier, more organic diet can do wonders for liver and wellbeing overall. It may entail some sacrifices, especially if you like junk food, but the results will be worth the small lifestyle changes.

Incorporating pro-liver food into your diet can help flush toxins from your body. Some of the best liver cleanse sources are:

  • fruits
  • vegetables
  • turmeric
  • walnuts
  • beets
  • garlic
  • green tea

Fruits

Citrus fruit, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruit, aids the liver in producing cleansing enzymes that can handle waste in your body. Besides providing your body with its much-needed dose of natural Vitamin C, citrus can protect your liver from typical damage, such as inflammation.

Apples are just as effective. It relieves the digestive tract from pollutants by releasing a unique fiber, called pectin, that softens the stool. A clean digestive tract helps the liver process waste better.

Another liver-friendly fruit is the avocado. The tropical delight triggers the body’s production glutathione, an antioxidant that enables the liver’s regulation of toxins in your body.

These fruits are easily accessible and consumable in solid form or as a smoothie.

Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables contribute to liver cleansing, including cauliflower, sprouts, kale, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli. Leafy greens are also high in glucosinolate and sulfur, which release detoxifying enzymes to flush toxins and carcinogens out of the bloodstream.

Carrots contain bountiful beta-carotene that promotes healthy overall liver function. It is also rich in Vitamin A, which plays a pivotal role in averting liver-related illnesses.

Turmeric

A staple in Ayurvedic medicine (or traditional medicine), turmeric boasts comprehensive benefits. As an antioxidant, it can help restore liver cells to a healthier state. Turmeric is also the only spice that can increase the production of bile.

Walnuts

Did you know the walnut is technically a fruit, not a nut? Walnuts contain high amounts of amino acids that eliminate ammonia. It is also an excellent snack option to replace junk food as it is rich in Omega-3, a natural detoxifying element.

Beets

Beets accelerate the production and flow of bile to boost cleansing processes in your system. It aids in decontaminating your bloodstream so that your body can expel harmful chemicals much quicker.

Garlic

Garlic is one of the most uncomplicated foods that you can easily incorporate into your diet. It is a primary source of selenium, a micronutrient that stimulates liver enzymes.

The liver enzymes trigger the expulsion of waste and restore healthier cells. It also guards the liver against potential damage brought about by oxidative stress.

Green Tea

Green tea is an organic antioxidant that cleanses your liver and colon. Aside from its detox benefits, it contains catechins, which aid in healthy liver function.

Studies in Japan show that drinking five to ten cups of green tea daily improves blood sugar levels and liver wellness.

The best liver cleanse is a varied diet that utilizes all these foods and beverages. There are no specific guidelines for when to incorporate these items into your meals, but to reap the full benefits of a liver cleanse, you should be consistent in choosing healthier options over liver-damaging food.


Benefits Of Liver Detoxing

Liver cleansing is popular among health enthusiasts for the following benefits:

  • weight loss
  • brighter skin
  • stronger immune system
  • better functioning liver

It can also motivate you to maintain a healthier lifestyle, which can have a positive impact well beyond liver function.

Weight Loss

Some studies have associated liver cleanses with weight loss. The explanation is simple: replace fat-rich, high-sodium foods, and sugary treats, with cleaner choices, and you will eventually lose weight.

Liver-friendly food also effectively sheds inflammatory fat, which tends to clump around your gut or stomach area.

Clearer Skin

A healthy diet clears the skin. Oily food and too much sugar cause imbalances in your body that lead to breakouts. Through a liver detox, you get rid of these toxins, opening the way for acne-free skin.

Boosted Immune System

A liver detox may improve your immune system too. It clears your bloodstream of unnecessary waste and harmful chemicals, strengthening your immune responses.

The liver is one of the body’s largest and most significant vital organs, and a healthy one can protect you from common infections or severe illnesses. When you cleanse a major part of your body, it triggers a positive chain reaction through the entire system.


Can A Liver Cleanse Be Harmful?

Don’t expect the best liver cleanse methods to be completely risk-free, though. Like any similar procedure, there are some disadvantages to liver cleansing.

No Acceptance By The Medical And Scientific Community

  • There is no scientific evidence that a liver detox can reset your liver or make your system healthier.
  • There is no proof that going through the cleansing process will expel alcohol and unhealthy food from your body.
  • It is not a medically acknowledged way of curing any damages on your liver.

Supplements Are Potentially Harmful

A liver cleanse can be harmful if done incorrectly. Studies have shown no tangible proof that supplements work, even if these unregulated supplements claim to cure the liver. It can even cause injury.

Juicing can lead to health complications without a working knowledge of the ingredients and drug interactions with any of your medication. If your immune system is weak, unsafe drinks or supplements will have undesirable effects that may require professional medical interventions.

Sufferers of diabetes and kidney-related diseases are at high risk if they decide to do a liver cleanse without proper guidance, for example.


Side-Effects

The adverse effects of natural liver cleansing include:

  • headaches
  • irritability
  • fatigue

Cleanses that utilize supplements also cause nausea and an upset stomach. These supplements contain ingredients that your body may reject, so the best way to combat the secondary effects is drinking plenty of water.

Although there are purely natural ways of cleansing your liver, there are still downsides to these alternatives. It is even riskier if you are currently not in the healthiest condition.

If you are unsure, seek professional advice. We recommend consulting with your current medical practitioner if you have experienced adverse symptoms or are going through severe illnesses before performing a liver cleanse.

The aim of a detoxifying process is to enhance your body’s ability to function, not to risk overloading it with extreme measures or unsafe interactions.


Best Liver Cleanse: Summing Up

Caring for your liver is crucial to extending your lifespan. A damaged liver can have far-reaching consequences for the rest of your body (visit a dialysis center if you want an idea of how vital the liver is to a healthy life).

Think of your liver as the body’s housekeeper—it filters and expels stored waste in your system and promotes cleaner blood flow and improved circulation. The liver is usually prone to overexertion and stress, though. It suffers greatly under the chemicals and toxins you ingest and expose yourself to daily.

The best liver cleanse is a natural one. You can easily incorporate liver-friendly organic food and beverages into your diet to jumpstart a liver cleanse, for example. You can also use supplements, as long as these products are FDA-approved and fully certified.

Food intake and other health choices also play a significant role in your liver’s overall health. Ingesting green tea, leafy vegetables, and citrus relieves your liver of stored wastes and harmful toxins more easily. A healthy diet enables your liver to do its job better, breaking down fats, processing drugs, and filtering your blood to ensure that your body functions optimally.

It is also best to keep your body in shape with consistent practices for a wholesome lifestyle, including a well-rounded diet. You may shed some fat, especially around the gut area, and have softer and more supple skin as a direct effect of these types of lifestyle changes.

The benefits of a liver cleanse extend beyond the organ—it also results in a healthier digestive tract and a stronger immune system. Liver cleanses are also excellent for counteracting fatigue, chronic energy deficiency, hormonal imbalances, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), bloating, excess gas, constipation, allergies, and poor sleep.

Much like other cleanses, there are certain drawbacks for those who are immunocompromised. For individuals who have sicknesses, like diabetes or diseases of the kidney or liver, should seek professional guidance before committing to a liver cleanse. Conditions may worsen if administered in spite of a weak physical state.

Despite our exhaustive list of the pros and cons for liver detoxification, there is no magical formula for the best liver cleanse—the state of your liver depends inextricably upon a healthy life.

Liver Support Plus

Our #1 Recommendation

  • All-natural ingredients
  • High-quality ingredients
  • Supports a healthy liver

Rosemary Richards