Milk thistle

Milk thistle is a flowering plant with spiky leaves and purple blooms that has been used for liver support for centuries. Its seeds contain silymarin, a group of plant compounds researchers are studying for how they may support liver cells. The results so far are mixed, so think of it as a gentle helper, not a fix.

Your liver already does the heavy lifting of clearing waste every day, and everyday habits are its best support:

• Eat plenty of vegetables, especially broccoli, cabbage and other crucifers
• Go easy on alcohol
• Drink enough water
• Get fiber from beans, seeds and whole grains

Milk thistle can interact with some medications and may not suit people with ragweed allergies, so check with your doctor or practitioner before trying it.

Try this: add a cruciferous veggie to dinner tonight.