Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (157 page)

Action plan

Your liver needs support, and there is much you can do to help through changing your diet and lifestyle.

EAT/DRINK

Dandelion-root coffee to help to get the bile flowing from the liver to the gallbladder and into the bowel. This is needed for proper digestion of fats and bowel function and is often reduced in those with cirrhosis of the liver.

Regular cups of warm water and lemon are helpful.

Low-fat, sugar-free food. Fat digestion is dependent on good liver function. Small amounts of healthy fats such as olive oil, flax seed and hemp seed oils can be used in salad dressings.

Fish and vegetable proteins such as pulses, nuts, seeds, and soy.

Raw fruits and vegetables. These foods will take the strain off the liver and provide abundant antioxidants needed for healing. Try consuming only freshly pressed juices and raw fruits and vegetables for three days.

Globe artichokes containing cynarine, which has been shown to increase the flow of bile, aiding the digestion of fats and improving bowel function.

Beets are rich in antioxidants and are cleansing and detoxifying.

Foods from the onion family, such as garlic, spring onions, and chives. These contain sulphur, an important nutrient for the liver.

Green foods. These contain chlorophyll and vitamin K as well as sulphur. Chlorophyll is excellent for cleansing and rejuvenating the cells. Vitamin K is needed to reduce bleeding and bruising. Cabbage, broccoli, brussels sprouts, kale, Tuscan kale, bok choy, chicory, watercress, and salad greens are all beneficial.

Plain foods rather than heavily spiced or flavored foods. Brown rice or quinoa with steamed vegetables or fish with green salads are good examples.

AVOID