Liver Cleansing Diet Meal Plan

The liver cleansing diet was developed by Dr. Sandra Cabot and was published as a book in 1997. According to Dr. Cabot, the liver cleansing diet will clean the liver and enable it to function more effectively. The results may include increased energy, lower blood cholesterol levels and weight loss 1. Additionally, the risk of heart disease and strokes will be reduced.

Theory

According to Dr. Cabot, excess fat in the abdominal region, which is often described as middle-aged spread, is caused by a fatty liver. Therefore, restoring the liver to a healthful state will result in weight loss 1. Dr. Cabot claims the liver is like a filter, which over time becomes blocked with impurities and should be cleansed regularly.

Foods

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Dr. Cabot advises eating plenty of unprocessed raw foods. At least 30 percent of the food eaten at each meal should consist of raw vegetables or fruits. Leafy green and bright-colored produce such as red peppers, plums and tomatoes are optimal. You can also ingest carbohydrates in the form of whole-wheat pancakes or rye breads. All white flour products should be avoided. Foods rich in fat are not recommended while on the cleanse. Any food that contains hydrogenated oils or trans fat is completely banned, and you should also abstain from dairy products that contain full-fat milk. Dr. Cabot does advise you to eat polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. These can be obtained from salmon, avocados, tuna or raw seeds and nuts. Beverages should include plenty of filtered water and raw juices. Tea or coffee can be taken but in moderation, and alcohol should be limited to no more than four glasses per week.

Breakfast

Some breakfast options for the liver cleanse diet include unsweetened muesli, Special K cereal or Raisin Bran. Soy or rice milk should be used in place of cow's milk. You could have a fresh fruit cocktail or a whole-wheat pancake served with plenty of raw fruit. In "The Liver Cleansing Diet," Dr. Cabot provides several recipes for shakes prepared using fresh fruit and a small amount of protein derived from soy milk, nuts or seeds.

Lunch

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You can also eat a sandwiches providing the bread is whole wheat or another variety typically found at a health store. Use avocado or tahini in place of butter, and fill it with raw vegetables, tofu or canned fish.

Dinner

Some dinner choices suggested by Dr. Cabot are spicy chicken kebabs served with a large green salad, or a vegetable paella. Wholewheat pasta can be eaten with a selection of fresh vegetables, or you could opt for a zucchini and herb omelet.

Considerations

Dr. Cabot sells variety of nutritional supplements on her website that she claims will aid liver function and benefit other organs. Since you may not know if you have a distressed liver or how severe the problem may be, it is wise to consult with your doctor before embarking on the diet and taking supplements, particularly if you are already taking medication 1.