A gastroenterologist has shared insightful tips on not just what to eat for liver health, but how to pair foods for maximum benefit. The specialist highlighted seven key fruits and vegetables, with a special emphasis on smart combinations that enhance their health-boosting effects.
One of the top pairings is watermelon with a squeeze of lime. The doctor explains that watermelon contains citrulline, which supports nitric oxide production, while lime is loaded with vitamin C. Together, this duo helps promote healthy and robust blood flow to the liver.
Another powerful combination is apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Apples are a great source of pectin, a soluble fiber, as well as beneficial polyphenols. Cinnamon adds compounds that have been studied for their ability to support insulin sensitivity and healthier lipid levels, creating a metabolically supportive snack.
A more indulgent-sounding pairing is strawberries with dark chocolate. The expert recommends this combo as long as the chocolate contains 70% cocoa or more. It’s packed with flavanols and anthocyanins, which are associated with improving blood vessel function and supporting cardiometabolic health.
The list also includes standalone powerhouses like cranberries (for the gut-liver axis), pomegranates (for inflammation), raspberries (for blood sugar), and beetroot. Beetroot is noted for its betaine content, a nutrient that specifically aids the liver in processing and moving fat out of its cells.