When it comes to our health, few organs work as tirelessly as the liver. This powerhouse detoxifies our bodies 24/7, managing a significant workload and regenerating itself remarkably—if we treat it right.

However, our liver's capacity isn’t limitless. Without proper care, we risk overloading it, which can disrupt its essential functions and impact our well-being.

What Overburdens Your Liver?

To keep your liver in top shape, avoid habits and exposures that impair its function:

• Alcohol – Excessive consumption stresses your liver.

• Recreational drugs – These overwhelm detox pathways.

• Environmental toxins – Heavy metals and pollutants burden the liver.

• Poor diet – Sugary foods, refined flours, and inflammatory fats are taxing.

• Sugary drinks – Beverages rich in fructose are harmful.

• Certain medications – Overuse can be toxic.

The Liver-Hormone Connection

The liver plays a crucial role in hormone metabolism, maintaining balance. When overloaded, hormones like estrogen, cortisol, and insulin are improperly processed, often stored as fat. This imbalance can affect everything from stress management to fat burning.

Here’s how the liver processes key hormones:

• Estrogen – Converts it into less active forms.

• Testosterone – Metabolizes it for excretion.

• Insulin – Helps regulate levels and blood sugar.

• Cortisol – Breaks it down into inactive forms.

• Thyroid Hormones – Activates or inactivates them as needed.

• Progesterone – Processes this hormone essential for menstrual health.

When progesterone levels decline, anxiety often increases, leading to a nightly glass of wine. However, alcohol disrupts hormone metabolism, resulting in belly fat, erratic moods, and exacerbated menopause symptoms. Supporting your liver is essential for hormonal harmony.

Nourish Your Liver with Food

Your liver works constantly to detoxify your body. A clean, nutritious diet can enhance its efforts. Organic foods are especially important to avoid pesticide exposure.

Top liver-loving foods include:

• Garlic – Boosts detox enzymes.

• Leafy greens – Neutralize toxins with chlorophyll.

• Beets and carrots – Assist liver function.

• Green tea – Rich in antioxidants.

• Olive oil – Supports detoxification.

• Walnuts – Provide amino acids and antioxidants.

• Turmeric – Anti-inflammatory properties.

• Citrus fruits – Aid detox with vitamin C.

• Apples – Cleanse with pectin.

• Cruciferous vegetables – Support liver enzymes.

• Berries – Antioxidant-rich.

• Avocado – Produces glutathione, crucial for detox.

Start the New Year by Loving Your Liver

After a season of indulgence, now is the time to give your liver some TLC. By making thoughtful dietary choices and avoiding stressors, you can support this vital organ to keep your hormones balanced and health thriving.

Let’s raise a (non-alcoholic) toast to our amazing liver—it’s always working for us and deserves our care.

Kathryn Evans, Dip in Nutrition