'Fatty liver' even sounds bad, doesn't it? Fatty liver (or steatosis) is fat droplet accumulation in liver cells, causing fatty liver disease. This is a very common condition worldwide, which is only growing with the rise in obesity rates and unhealthy lifestyles like sitting too much, endless bedtime scrolling and eating takeouts every day.
Often without any symptoms, an untreated fatty liver can lead to some serious conditions like cirrhosis and liver failure or hepatic insufficiency. Since fatty liver is mostly caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, its treatment or reversal involves improving it through good habits for good health, dietary changes and increased physical activity.
Although removing fatty liver requires a long-term commitment to a healthy diet as well as exercise, there is one simple kitchen ingredient you can use to help boost the progress. It's, of course, lemon!
Lemon detox diets are all the rage these days for their weight loss as well as fat loss benefits, but have you thought about the link between lemon and liver health? Some evidence shows that lemons help reduce fat, which converts to a reduced fatty liver.
Drinking hot lemon water is a traditional remedy popular for its many health benefits. In this blog, we will take a look at lemon water for fatty liver and its benefits, so when life gives you lemons, you can make a few lemonades and fix that fatty liver! Additionally, to help you even more, ToneOp's health experts have listed some ways you can reduce fatty liver and enjoy a healthier life.
Table of Contents
- Is Lemon Water Good for Fatty Liver?
- 5 Benefits of Lemon Water For Fatty Liver
- What is The Fastest Way to Cure Fatty Liver?
- Expert’s Advice
- The Final Say
- FAQs
- References
Is Lemon Water Good for Fatty Liver?
Limonin, a powerful compound found in lemons, boasts anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, and liver-protective properties. Studies show it reduces fat accumulation in the liver and combats NAFLD by resisting lipid buildup and reducing inflammation.
Citrus fruits, especially lemons, can be added to water to drink to help you detoxify your liver and improve liver function. According to some studies, the antioxidants in lemon reduce inflammation, remove free radicals, and improve the body's ability to process glucose. Not only that, but these antioxidants may also lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels!
The abundant vitamin C in lemons protects the liver from oxidative damage. Lemon improves enzyme function, stimulates your liver and activates bile flow, which helps emulsify and flush out fat-soluble toxins. Research also claims that nutrients from lemons can reduce fat storage in the liver and can reduce chronic liver damage caused by alcohol.
Excess weight and obesity heighten the risk of insulin resistance and inflammation—key contributors to fatty liver disease. A great way to protect your liver is managing your sugar cravings and cutting out sugary foods and drinks. Your liver may pay the price if you don't maintain healthy eating habits.
Interestingly, lemon juice has also shown promising results in shielding the liver from alcohol-induced damage. Recent studies suggest it may even reverse the harmful effects of excessive alcohol consumption! Still, you cannot drink alcohol at night and drink lemon water in the morning and expect there to be no harmful consequences. So, drink lemonade and ditch the martinis!
Also Read: 6 Effective Yoga Poses For Fatty Liver Disease & Tips To Manage It Naturally!
5 Benefits of Lemon Water for Fatty Liver
From promoting detoxification to reducing fat buildup, this simple drink may hold the key to a healthier liver. Let’s explore how incorporating lemon water into your routine can benefit those with fatty liver:
1. Detoxification
Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, lemons fight free radicals and support natural detoxification. This may help minimise the stress placed on the liver by oxidation. Also, you can try these morning detox drinks apart from lemon water.
2. Improved Digestion
Lemon juice boosts digestive juices, enhancing digestion and nutrient absorption. Good digestion allows the body (and therefore the liver) to take less time to eliminate toxins from the body.
3. Weight Management
Lemon water is not just low in calories but can act as an appetite suppressant. This can help with weight reduction by fighting off hunger and contributing to a calorie deficit. Weight loss, especially fat loss, is essential in treating fatty liver.
4. Improved Metabolism
Lemon juice, rich in citric acid, enhances metabolism and the thermic effect of food and helps burn calories. It helps with the breakdown of fat, making it beneficial for managing fatty liver.
5. Antioxidant Properties
The vitamin C and flavonoids in lemons protect liver cells from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of liver disease.
Also Read: Meet A Healthier And Fitter Version Of You With The Most Effective Body Fat Loss Workout Plan
What is The Fastest Way to Cure Fatty Liver?
To cure fatty liver fast, you should make the following changes in your life:
1. Dietary Modification
Incorporate a colourful diet with more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Also, reduce the intake of unhealthy fats, refined sugars, and alcohol. Consume healthy fats like olive oil, avocados, and nuts, and choose low-fat dairy options.
2. Exercise Regularly
Fatty liver can be significantly minimised by gaining control over body weight and achieving an optimal BMI with healthy body fat and lean body mass. Along with the dietary changes mentioned above, regular and consistent physical activity will reduce excess body fat and the fat accumulated in the liver.
3. Stop Drinking
Excessive alcohol consumption is the main cause of fatty liver disease. Alcohol damages liver function and facilitates fat storage. By simply limiting or stopping alcohol consumption, you can prevent this disease. It can be difficult for the regular drinker to avoid the urge to drink. So start by reducing the amount of consumption and avoiding places, friends or relatives that can increase or involve drinking.
Also Read: 8 Potential Side Effects of Drinking Wine Every Night | ToneOp Fit
Expert’s Advice
A healthy diet and regular exercise are key to managing and reversing fatty liver in its early stages.
Focus on vegetables, berries, eggs, poultry, nuts, and whole grains while avoiding red meat. Healthy fats like olive oil, almonds, and avocados help reduce inflammation, and lean proteins such as fish, tofu, and beans support liver health.
Limit sugary, salty, and fried foods, and avoid alcohol. Managing diabetes and cholesterol, as well as staying active with simple exercises, can also improve liver function.
Health Expert
Lavina Chauhan
The Final Say
Fatty liver can be overwhelming, but recovery is not impossible. With the right remedies and consistent effort, you can make small and powerful changes that can reverse fatty liver naturally. Lemon water is a great option for removing fatty liver!
Remember, it's all about balance and persistence. Make these changes part of your daily routine, and you'll be on your way to better liver health.
FAQs
1. How much hot lemon water should I drink for fatty liver?
Aim for one cup of hot lemon water in the morning on an empty stomach. You can adjust the amount according to your preference and comfort level.
2. Can I add honey to hot lemon water?
Yes! A teaspoon of honey can add sweetness and is generally safe. However, if you are managing your weight, be aware of excess calories.
3. Are there any risks to drinking hot water with lemon?
Although generally safe, lemon water can cause acidity, especially among those with acid reflux or gastritis.
4. How long does it take lemon water to detox the liver?
Lemon water can begin detoxifying the liver within a few days, with noticeable improvements over a few weeks to months.
5. What is the best drink for fatty liver?
The best drinks for fatty liver include lemon water, green tea, dandelion tea, and water with apple cider vinegar, all of which help detoxify the liver, improve digestion, and support overall liver health.
References
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8762292/
- https://liversurgeryindia.com/blog/benefits-of-drinking-hot-lemon-water-for-fatty-liver
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5439254/
- https://thelivertransplant.com/lemon-water-immunity-booster/
- https://humanperformancehub.co.uk/resources/fat-loss-nutrition/does-lemon-water-detox-your-liver/?srsltid=AfmBOooQaLeES3bZptuzL7OCpncvNvHMgka7qmoUqXpzG4fzGdSukoJp
- https://medwayhospitals.com/natural-remedies-for-fatty-liver/
- https://bharathomeopathy.com/blog/what-is-the-fastest-way-to-heal-a-fatty-liver/
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