There are many reasons to love beer. From the delicious taste and alluring aroma to the way it brings people together to have a good time, beer is the best beverage in the world. Beer has some surprising health benefits, too, including strengthening bone health, reducing stress and helping to prevent kidney stones.
However, beer, as any other alcoholic beverage, can also have negative implications on our health if not imbibed in moderation. In particular, our livers take a beating with consistent beer (and alcohol in general) intake. The liver is roughly the size of a football (weighing about three pounds) and does 500 roles in our bodies. It produces bile, which breaks down fat, metabolizes carbohydrates and filters blood. Alcohol is broken down in the liver. And unfortunately, excessive alcohol intake can lead to liver damage, including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), alcohol hepatitis and even liver cancer.
Never fear, though. There are many steps you can take to keep your liver healthy and in tip-top shape. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, drinking plenty of water and drinking alcohol in moderation all play a key role in keeping your liver running smoothly. It’s also important to follow directions on medications, practicing safe sex and consider getting vaccinated for hepatitis if you’re traveling to a region where it’s an issue.
Diet also plays an important part of liver health. For optimal liver health, avoid fatty foods, excessive salt, added sugar (soft drinks, cookies, etc.), red meat and fried foods. It’s best to stick to a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, legumes and whole grains to keep your liver happy and healthy. Here are 15 foods that are especially good for liver health.
Beans
Beans are a great source of protein and fiber. Some studies suggest that beans preserve liver health by preventing fat from accumulating in the liver, reducing the risk of a fatty liver. Kidney beans and navy beans help the body get rid of waste quickly. Ditch baked beans that are loaded with extra salt and go for something sodium-free. Best of all, beans are not only cheap, but easy to add to many meals, including soups, tacos, wraps, and chili.
