By JKNewsMedia
CONSUMING ANTI0XIDANT-rich produce such as citrus, bananas, dragon fruit, apples, and avocados supports liver function and strengthens the body’s immune system.
Nutrition experts note that these fruits help eliminate toxins, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of liver-related diseases.
The liver, the body’s largest internal organ, is central to detoxification, nutrient metabolism, and energy regulation.
Proper nutrition can help reduce inflammation, improve liver function, and lower the risk of conditions such as fatty liver, hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
According to Dr Nguyen Thi Phuong, a nutritionist at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, fruits containing essential vitamins and minerals not only support liver function but also contribute to disease prevention.
She emphasised that the natural compounds found in certain fruits aid in repairing liver cells and promoting overall metabolic balance.
Citrus fruits, including oranges, tangerines, lemons, and grapefruits, are packed with vitamin C, bioflavonoids, citric acid, and potassium. Dr Phuong explained that these fruits promote metabolism, detoxify the liver, and enhance immune defence.
Their soluble fibre helps regulate blood sugar levels, while the low-calorie composition supports weight management. She advised that eating citrus fruits before meals can help reduce appetite and combat obesity, which is a major risk factor for fatty liver disease.
Dragon fruit, rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, E, betacyanins, and polyphenols, offers further benefits for liver health. Dr Phuong stated that the fruit’s moderate glycaemic index and high fibre content make it ideal for individuals managing blood sugar or fatty liver.
Regular consumption of dragon fruit supports detoxification and helps prevent liver cell damage.
Bananas, another beneficial fruit, contain high levels of potassium and fibre that aid the body’s detoxification process. They also improve digestion and maintain healthy bowel function.
Dr Phuong noted that bananas can be eaten raw, added to smoothies, or included in daily meals to help maintain optimal liver and digestive health.
Apples, known for their fibre content, also play a role in preventing constipation—a common issue for patients with cirrhosis, which can lead to hepatic encephalopathy due to toxin buildup.
A single apple provides about 20 percent of the daily recommended fibre intake, supporting digestion, gut health, and weight control.
The fruit also helps reduce blood pressure and cholesterol, lowering the risk of heart disease and diabetes—both of which can impact liver function.
Avocados, which contain healthy monounsaturated fats, help lower harmful LDL cholesterol while increasing beneficial HDL cholesterol, promoting cardiovascular and liver health.
Dr Phuong added that avocados are rich in more than 20 vitamins and minerals, including folate and vitamins E, C, and K.
Their antioxidant properties help neutralise free radicals and reduce inflammation, which is beneficial to liver tissue regeneration.
Tomatoes, a source of lycopene, are also recommended. Lycopene acts as an antioxidant that helps prevent inflammation, fatty liver, and even liver cancer.
Dr Phuong explained that the nutrient is also present in guava, watermelon, papaya, and red peppers. Tomatoes contain additional nutrients such as vitamin E, vitamin C, folate, and fibre, making them a versatile addition to salads, sauces, or cooked meals.
Grapes are another fruit highlighted for their resveratrol and flavonoid content—compounds that protect the liver and reduce inflammation. Dr Phuong said fresh grapes provide the greatest benefit, although grape juice, seed oil, and jam also offer similar advantages for liver function.
Pineapple rounds off the list of beneficial fruits. It contains bromelain, a natural digestive enzyme that helps reduce inflammation and supports the liver’s detoxification process.
Regular pineapple consumption, according to Dr Phuong, may particularly aid individuals with fatty liver, cirrhosis, or hepatitis.
The nutritionist advised that fresh fruits are preferable to processed forms or juices, which often contain added sugar.
She further cautioned that individuals with fatty liver or diabetes should limit overly sweet fruits and focus on variety, combining fruits with meats, fish, and vegetables to achieve balanced nutrition.
Dr Phuong also emphasised that patients undergoing treatment for liver diseases should schedule regular medical check-ups to monitor progress.
Doctors, she said, will adjust dietary plans and treatment recommendations based on the patient’s condition and response to therapy.
