There’s so mushroom for improvement when it comes to your health, and we've collated everything from fungi to your favourite staple veggies to help you protect your liver – one of the body’s most important organs for, well, staying alive. The Bee Gees need not look any further for answers, it’s all here in these 3 powerhouse foods. 

While many of us are aware of the liver's role in detoxification and metabolism, fewer may know about the diverse range of foods that can actively support its function and promote overall liver health – though you probably know what not to eat and drink, from alcohol to excess sugar. In fact, one of the major reasons people join us on the 8-Week Program is to combat or prevent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, a rapidly growing blight on Aussies and people around the globe alike – the culprit? Added sugar. If you know you have a sweet tooth but don’t know how to address the addiction, we’re here to help – it’s kind of our thing. We’re not about deprivation, au contraire! You can enjoy brownies, milkshakes, ramen and burgers on the program, all while boosting your whole body’s health.

Want to know how? Join us. 

In modern society, where fast-paced lifestyles and convenience often take precedence over mindful eating, the health of our liver can easily be overlooked. Yet, the liver plays a crucial role in our overall wellbeing, serving as the body's primary detoxification organ and metabolic powerhouse. Unfortunately, liver disease, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is on the rise, fuelled in part by the prevalence of ultra-processed foods in the Western diet. NAFLD alone affects approximately 25% of the global population, highlighting the urgent need to address liver health proactively. 

Today, we'll be delving into three powerhouse ingredients renowned for their ability to support liver function. Their impressive array of nutrients and bioactive compounds makes them invaluable allies in the fight against liver disease and overall health promotion. Curious? Let’s find out what they are.

Matcha

Matcha isn't just your average green tea. While you may savour its vibrant colour and rich flavour, you might not realise its potential to boost liver health. With a high concentration of antioxidants, including EGCG, matcha helps combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and support liver detoxification, making it a potent ally for liver health. 

High in Antioxidants: Matcha is rich in catechins, a type of antioxidant that helps protect the liver from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. One catechin in particular, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), has been studied for its potential to reduce liver inflammation and improve liver function.

Liver Detoxification Support: The chlorophyll present in matcha may help to enhance the body's natural detoxification processes, including liver detoxification. Chlorophyll helps to remove toxins and heavy metals from the body, thereby reducing the burden on the liver.

Anti-inflammatory Properties: Matcha contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, such as polyphenols and EGCG. By reducing inflammation in the liver, matcha may help prevent liver diseases like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and liver fibrosis.

Turkey Tail Mushroom (Trametes versicolor)

While turkey tail mushrooms may not be a staple in your pantry, their remarkable health benefits, particularly for liver health, might surprise you. Rich in polysaccharopeptides and antioxidants, these mushrooms bolster immune function, protect liver cells from damage, and reduce inflammation, making them a valuable addition to any liver-supportive regimen.

Immune-Boosting Effects: Turkey tail mushroom contains polysaccharopeptides (PSPs) and polysaccharides, which have been shown to enhance immune function. A healthy immune system is essential for liver health, as it helps to combat infections and reduce inflammation in the liver.

Antioxidant Activity: The antioxidants found in turkey tail mushroom, including phenols and flavonoids, can help protect liver cells from oxidative damage. By neutralizing free radicals, these antioxidants reduce the risk of liver diseases and promote overall liver health.

Anti-inflammatory Properties: Studies have demonstrated that turkey tail mushroom possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce liver inflammation and prevent the progression of liver diseases. By modulating the immune response and inflammatory pathways, turkey tail mushroom may support liver function.

Want to enjoy turkey tail mushrooms but can't find them in store? Opt for a powder extract instead and make mushroom tea or add it to soups. 

Beetroot

You might know beets are delicious – and a certain Shrute Farms proprietor will attest to their nutritional value – but you might not know what they can do for your liver. Packed with betalains, beets offer potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect liver cells from damage and support detoxification processes. Here’s what this means.

Rich in Betalains: Beetroot contains betalains, pigments with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help protect liver cells from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the liver. Betalains also support liver detoxification by enhancing the activity of detoxifying enzymes.

Nitrates for Blood Flow: Beetroot is a good source of dietary nitrates, which are converted into nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide helps dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow, including blood flow to the liver. Adequate blood flow is essential for liver function and detoxification processes.

Detoxification Support: Beetroot contains fibre and betaine, nutrients that support liver detoxification. Fibre helps to eliminate toxins from the body through the digestive tract, while betaine promotes the metabolism of fats in the liver and aids in the removal of waste products.

Incorporating these liver-friendly foods into your diet can help support liver health and function. However, it's essential to consume them as part of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins for optimal liver health – don’t just go munching beets all day, as much as Dwight might recommend it! As always, consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have existing liver conditions or concerns.

We’ve put in the hard yards so you can enjoy the benefits of an extensive, wholistic program that covers everything from learning how to manage nutrition and mental health to social situations. When you join us for the 8-Week Program you’ll have exclusive access to expert guidance, nutritional planning and support every step of the way. Take a peek at what’s on offer:

• 8 weeks of meal plans and shopping lists.
• A range of exclusive recipes, including sugar-free desserts, snacks and all the old favourites.
• Community forums to share and discuss your experience.
• Expert support to guide you through each week – from world-renowned chef Sarah Glover to yoga teachers, nutritionists and naturopaths.