Your liver is going to be working a lot of overtime during the next month. Here’s how you can help it out.
According to Beverage Daily, Americans increase drinking habits by 100% between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.
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This year, the parties and get-togethers will be virtual. But they might not be any less frequent. The added stress and loneliness of the season, which is already a major burden for some, will surely be enhanced by the pandemic.
Data thus far shows alcohol sales are way up since the beginning of the pandemic.
All of this suggests the next month may be very difficult for your liver. Doing whatever to sustain or improve liver health throughout the season should be on your mind.
Aside from doing your best to drink responsibly and follow the recommended daily limits—which is one drink per day for women and two for men, with room for an extra one for special occasions—there is a lot more you can do.
No one is asking you to eliminate the occasional drink from your holiday. Instead, try supplementing your liver health by making some healthful decisions.
Diet plays a crucial role in liver health. Instead of indulging in baked goods and other sweets this season, prioritize fruit and vegetable intake. Sugar can promote liver disease, while fruits and vegetables can protect your liver.
Cruciferous vegetables like kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts can have enhanced benefits for your liver. They contain a compound that may increase the liver’s natural detoxification enzymes, allowing it to process alcohol more safely.
Drinking black coffee may also help boost liver health. Research has shown drinking at least two cups of black coffee per day might improve liver health and lower the risk of liver disease.
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Start your day with a cup of coffee or two to offer a little extra re-enforcement this holiday season.
If you know you’ll be drinking a little bit more this time of year, adjust other areas of your life to make up for it.
Cut down on refined foods, baked goods, and processed snacks, and consider replacing those seasonal staples with more fruits and vegetables. Increase activity and include a little more coffee to increase liver support through the holidays.
Devon Andre has been involved in the health and dietary supplement industry for a number of years. Devon has written extensively for Bel Marra Health. He has a Bachelor of Forensic Science from the University of Windsor, and went on to complete a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Devon is keenly aware of trends and new developments in the area of health and wellness. He embraces an active lifestyle combining diet, exercise and healthy choices. By working to inform readers of the options available to them, he hopes to improve their health and quality of life.
