This is recommended for many ailments, including piles, acne, eczema and heavy or painful menstruation. The foods allowed in this diet are those that the liver finds easiest to metabolise. Foods that the liver finds difficult to process are avoided, thereby enhancing its function. This does not mean that there is a liver disease, simply that the liver may not be functioning as well as it could.

Foods Allowed

• Fish, preferably fresh and white

• Pulses (peas, beans, lentils)

• Wholemeal bread, wholegrain cereals, brown rice and whole wheat pasta

• Molasses and unsweetened jams that are yeast free (refrigerate after opening)

• All vegetables

• Pineapples, apples, grapes, melons and fresh or tinned fruit in natural juice

• Almonds, sunflower and sesame seeds and pine nuts

• Grain coffee (barley, bamboo – coffee substitutes), herb tea, soy milk and unsweetened fruit juice made from the fruits listed above

• Carob

• Olive oil, sunflower oil and spreads made from cold-pressed vegetable oil

• Herbs and soy sauce

• Tofu

Foods Allowed in Moderation

• Berries, apricots, peaches, sultanas, raisins and dates twice a week

• Minimal salt

• Limit intake of tinned fish (wash off oil if not in brine)

Foods to Avoid

• Meat, poultry and eggs

• Bread made from refined flour

• Sugar, syrup, treacle and honey, and foods containing them

• All cows and goats produce, such as milk, cheese and yoghurt

• Tomatoes, citrus fruit, avocados, bananas and all over-ripe fruit

• Nuts, except almonds

• Coffee, cocoa and tea (2 cups a day only)

• Chocolate

• Fried food

• Spices

• Alcohol