Introduction
Liver enzymes are proteins released by the liver, which assist in various body functions such as digestion, metabolism, and hormone regulation. The most common enzymes measured are ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase). High levels of these enzymes may indicate liver conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver disease.
Maintaining healthy liver enzymes levels is critical, as liver damage can lead to severe health conditions. Lowering liver enzymes involves making necessary lifestyle changes to promote healthy liver function.
Diet changes
Eating a well-balanced, healthy diet rich in antioxidants and healthy fats is essential for maintaining optimal liver function. Antioxidants and healthy fats help reduce inflammation and improve liver health.
Include spinach, kale, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, garlic, berries, and radishes in your diet as they contain high levels of antioxidants. Foods such as avocados, nuts, seeds, fish, and olive oil contain healthy fats and are beneficial for liver health.
Incorporate a healthy diet that is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats into your daily routine to help lower liver enzymes.
Exercise
Physical activity, such as moderate exercise, can help with lowering liver enzymes. Exercise helps reduce inflammation, improve liver function, and stimulate blood flow to the liver.
Engage in light to moderate physical activity that includes walking, cycling, and yoga. These types of activities provide a low impact workout and are an excellent way to improve liver function.
Supplements
Supplements can aid in lowering liver enzymes and promoting liver health. Milk thistle, artichoke, turmeric, and beetroot supplements are known to improve liver function. These supplements work by reducing inflammation, preventing cell damage, and maintaining healthy liver function.
Consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, as some may interact with medications or cause allergic reactions.
Herbs and plants
Herbs and plants have been used for centuries to improve liver function. Dandelion, milk thistle, and turmeric are well-known for their liver-protective properties.
Dandelion is rich in vitamins and minerals essential for liver function. Milk thistle’s active ingredient silymarin helps protect liver cells from damage. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that helps protect the liver from oxidative stress.
Avoiding alcohol and smoking
Limiting or avoiding substances such as alcohol and smoking is necessary to promote good liver health. Alcohol and smoking cause severe damage to the liver and can lead to liver failure and various other health conditions.
Avoid or limit substance use and promote a healthy lifestyle to reduce stress on the liver.
Medications to avoid
Medication-related liver damage is a common problem. Certain medications can lead to liver damage or interfere with existing liver conditions. Medications to avoid or take cautiously include painkillers, antibiotics, and some over-the-counter medications.
Always talk to a healthcare professional before taking any medications to ensure the preservation of liver health and wellbeing.
Drink more water
Water helps flush toxins out of the body and aids in liver function. Staying hydrated is essential for proper liver function.
Drink at least eight to ten glasses of water each day to promote optimal liver function.
Conclusion
Liver health is essential for overall health. Lower liver enzymes can be achieved with simple dietary and lifestyle changes such as consuming a well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, incorporating supplements and herbs, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and drinking more water.
Everyone’s liver health is different, and it is essential to talk to a healthcare professional regarding these changes, especially if symptoms persist.
