Spring Greens for Liver Health
3. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare the dressing by combining the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, honey, rice vinegar, and cilantro, and whisk together well. Set aside.
4. Peel & cut the mango into 1” cubes, and if you’re using frozen, whole edamame, thaw & shell it so you have the individual beans at your disposal.
5. Blanch Asparagus in boiling water for 2-3 mins and set to the side
5. When the potatoes are done roasting, allow them to cool for a few minutes. Combine the potatoes, asparagus, pickled red onions, mango, and edamame in a large bowl. Drizzle the dressing on top & toss lightly with the Arugula.
7. Serve on a bed of greens or on its own, and enjoy!
Spring is the season of renewal, growth, and rejuvenation. With the arrival of this beautiful season, flowers, tree buds, and newly born animals spring forth from their period of hibernation and into the world!
The liver, often referred to as the "Governor" in Traditional Chinese Medicine, orchestrates the flow of vital energy (Qi) throughout our bodies. It acts as a guardian, keeping our emotional and physical selves clear of toxins and stagnation, enabling us to make clear-headed decisions and live with purpose.
Imbalances in the liver can manifest as sluggishness, irritability, and digestive issues. In spring, as nature's upward movement takes center stage, we find a powerful clue to supporting our liver health. Just like budding plants and flowers reaching for the sky, we want to consume foods that embody the essence of spring—leafy greens, onions, sour foods, and the color green. Remember that Nature is our greatest teacher! Let’s embrace cleansing and rejuvenation through our meals!
Liver Supportive Ingredients
1. Asparagus
Asparagus, a precious and nutritious vegetable with a short growing season, is a fantastic choice for promoting liver health in spring. Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fiber, it supports liver function, soothes irritation, and even promotes fertility. Asparagus's cooling and moistening properties beautifully balance the warming effects of spring, making it an ideal addition to our plates.
2. Sweet Potato
The humble sweet potato, rich in vitamins A, C, B6, fiber, and potassium, is a true powerhouse for liver support. Its benefits are numerous: improving digestion, boosting energy levels, and supporting overall liver function. As we become more active in spring, sweet potatoes provide long-lasting nourishment to keep us going!
Sweet potatoes are considered a neutral and slightly sweet food, which can help nourish the liver and blood. They also support the spleen and stomach, promoting healthy digestion and overall vitality.
Sour flavors are believed to have a cooling, contracting, and upward-moving effect on the body, which can help combat sagging and flaccidity in the tissues. This is particularly important for connective tissues such as tendons and ligaments, which rely on the liver for nourishment.
Sour flavors are particularly beneficial for liver conditions associated with heat, anger, sluggishness, and congestion. These conditions may result from consuming rich, sugary, and fatty foods. The cleansing properties of sour flavors can help break down excess fats and proteins while dissolving fat-soluble toxins, which can then be more easily excreted by the kidneys.
When incorporating sour flavors into your diet, it is essential to maintain a balanced approach. While sour flavors can be beneficial for liver health, excessive consumption can lead to overstimulation of the liver and interfere with digestion and appetite. Additionally, too much sour can cause the connective tissues and muscles to become dry and cracked, leading to further health complications.
To make sure you are taking a balanced approach, consume sour flavors in moderation, such as in condiments, juices, or small amounts of sour fruits!
6. Onions
Onions, a common ingredient in many dishes, can also provide liver health benefits during spring. Onions are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which can help support liver function, detoxification, and overall health. They are considered a pungent food that can help move liver Qi and cleanse our most vital organ!
7. Arugula
Arugula, a bitter leafy green, is a fantastic addition to your spring diet for liver health! High in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fiber, bitter greens like arugula are known to support liver cleansing and detoxification.
8. Green Onions
Green onions, also known as spring onions or scallions are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, potassium, and fiber! They fully embody the up and out momentum of spring! Green onions are considered a pungent food that can help stimulate liver Qi and support overall liver health, and luckily they work as a tasty topper for almost any meal!
Additional Spring Foods for Liver Health
Apart from the foods mentioned above, several other foods can support liver health during spring. These include:
Other bitter or leafy greens like kale, spinach, and dandelion greens
Fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and mint
Seasonal fruits like strawberries and cherries
Seeds, nuts, and legumes
Warming spices like ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon