Though it may seem inconspicuous, the liver is an organ with multiple vital functions. To care for it and boost its functioning, gastroenterologist Joseph Salhab recommends certain drinks to start your day right.
The liver is a vital organ with numerous mechanisms. It notably produces proteins that contribute to blood clotting or to cleansing the blood of toxic substances. Directly connected to the digestive system, this vital organ produces bile, necessary for fat digestion, and it stores glucose, vitamins, and minerals from digestion.
Thus, when the liver struggles to function, several diseases can emerge. It's, therefore, necessary to take care of this organ.
Adopting good dietary habits is a simple way to do this. In a TikTok video, liver specialist gastroenterologist Joseph Salhab recommended 3 drinks to consume in the morning to care for your liver.
Caring for Your Liver: 3 Drinks to Favor in the Morning Upon Waking
In his video, the doctor recommends 3 drinks to kickstart your day and protect your liver. He specifically suggests alternatives to coffee, which can provide a morning boost while also taking care of your liver health.
Green Tea for Antioxidants
Firstly, the expert advises drinking green tea, which contains a "high amount of antioxidants and flavonoids called catechins."
Beyond their antioxidant properties, catechins present in large quantities in green tea may have protective effects against diabetes, overweight, and osteoporosis.
"Some data suggest that green tea is very beneficial for the liver, especially in cases of fatty liver disease," concludes Dr. Joseph Salhab.
Fatty liver disease, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, is characterized by the accumulation of fats in the liver, outside of any excessive alcohol consumption and can progress to cirrhosis if not treated.
Matcha Tea, the Best Coffee Alternative
According to Joseph Salhab, matcha tea is also a good coffee alternative for liver care.
"Matcha is very similar to green tea, but it is highly concentrated, as it is made from a different type of green tea that may contain more antioxidants than the standard green tea preparation," explains the gastroenterologist.
In addition to its numerous health benefits, matcha tea is also effective for liver health care, according to the expert.
He adds that both green tea and matcha tea "contain caffeine, but less than coffee," which is why they can replace this early day drink.
Smoothies for a Healthy Liver
The gastroenterologist highlights the benefits of vegetable or fruit-based smoothies for keeping the liver healthy.
"Leafy green vegetables like kale, spinach, broccoli, and even some fruits like berries can also contain tons of antioxidants," details the expert.
Unlike the other two recommended drinks, Joseph Salhab notes that "smoothies do not contain caffeine but can be very tasty with the right ingredients."
Hundreds of smoothie combinations exist to cater to a wide range of tastes and to protect liver health.
Watch the video by Joseph Salhab below
