A gastroenterologist specializing in nutrition has emphasized the critical link between gut health and liver health. In a recent video, the expert shared seven specific fruits and vegetables that support the “gut-liver axis” and overall liver function.
Cranberries are at the top of the list for this very reason. The doctor notes that cranberries or unsweetened cranberry juice are full of polyphenols. These compounds act as prebiotics, which are essential food for your healthy gut bacteria, and a healthier gut leads directly to a healthier liver.
The specialist also points to beetroot as a liver-supporting powerhouse. Beetroots are loaded with both nitrates and betaine. Nitrates support the body’s nitric oxide pathways for better blood flow, while betaine is a specific nutrient that helps the liver process and move fat out of its cells.
Other fruits on the list offer metabolic and anti-inflammatory benefits. Pomegranates are recommended for their rich polyphenol content, which can help calm inflammatory signals. Raspberries are highlighted for their fiber and anthocyanins, which assist in regulating blood sugar and processing dietary fats.
The list also includes smart combinations like watermelon with lime (for blood flow), apples with cinnamon (for insulin sensitivity), and strawberries with dark chocolate. This last pairing, using high-cocoa chocolate, is great for blood vessel function and cardiometabolic health.