Consuming the right foods is really imperative to liver health, but why? There are many reasons, but a few key foods make a big impact due to their anti-inflammatory properties. One of the best anti-inflammatory foods are actually pecans. They are full of monounsaturated fat (the good kind) that is linked to reducing inflammation in the body. Oleic acid, the type of fat found in pecans, has also been shown to promote weight loss. This is especially important to note, as the liver is one of the organs that can suffer immensely from obesity that stems from poor nutrition.
Pecan and Your Liver
The liver is one of the body’s most vital organs. At about the size of a football, it is the body’s second-largest organ, just after the skin. The liver performs all sorts of different tasks, but perhaps the most notable surround the metabolic system. Anything that we put into our body makes its way to and through our liver. Once a substance has reached the liver, it will be broken down or converted into something else that is more easily received by the body.
The liver is incredibly wise, and knows exactly which substances should be stored, processed, removed, or recirculated back into the blood. The liver itself stores vitamins A, D, E, K, B12, as well as iron and copper. These vitamins and minerals are essential for the body to function properly. This is only a small portion of what our liver can do, and already it has become clear how important it is to keep it healthy.
What vitamins and minerals are found in pecans? Pecans have antioxidants, calcium, choline, copper, fiber, iron, magnesium, mono and polyunsaturated fats, oleic acid, phytosterols, omega-3 fatty acids, phosphorus, vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, vitamin B9, vitamin E and zinc. Pretty impressive, right?
Healthy Habits for a Healthy Liver
There are many things that can be done to help ensure your liver has a clean bill of health. Firstly, being mindful about alcohol consumption. Chronic alcohol abuse leads to damage of the liver cells, which can be permanent and ultimately lead to cirrhosis. Certain drugs and herbal supplements can also cause damage to the liver, along with unhealthy lifestyle habits like avoiding physical activity and eating a diet high in fried and sugary foods.
While our liver health may not always be top of mind, reminding ourselves how amazing the functionality of the body is can help to bring the focus back. When we lead a healthy lifestyle, our liver is able to do its job with the utmost efficiency, which increases our overall well-being. You can start today by practicing mindful alcohol consumption, increasing your physical activity, and snacking on pecans along the way!
