The liver is one of the body’s most hard working organs, constantly required to assist with the many hundreds of metabolic processes our body’s undergo in order to function efficiently. When healthy, the liver functions as a powerhouse for the digestion, metabolism and detoxification of the many nutrients and chemicals we ingest or are exposed to on a daily basis. However, for some of us, sluggish liver function means we’re constantly struggling to enjoy the radiant health we’re striving for.
Important Liver Functions
1. Bile production and secretion – bile is the substance that breaks down fats in our digestive systems.
2. Digestion of protein, fats and carbohydrates.
3. Detoxification of drugs and potentially harmful substances.
4. Storage of certain vitamins (A, B12, D, E, K) and certain minerals (iron and copper) and activation of vitamin D.
5. Regulation of glucose and cholesterol levels.
6. Protein synthesis – building proteins from amino acids.
7. Hormone production and breakdown.
Liver Conditions
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by bacterial or viral infection, alcohol, drugs, toxins or parasites. Hepatitis A is transmitted by contaminated food or water. Hepatitis B is transmitted through contaminated blood or needles or through sexual contact and may result in chronic liver inflammation. Hepatitis C is also transmitted through blood and can cause severe liver damage.
Cirrhosis of the liver is the progressive replacement of functioning liver tissue with scar tissue which can make the liver hardened and distorted in shape. This results in reduced healthy liver tissue for blood to flow through and therefore reduced liver function.
Fatty Liver Disease is literally a build up of fatty tissue in the liver which causes the remaining liver cells to enlarge and reduces the function of the liver. Excessive alcohol consumption is a common cause whilst obesity, diabetes and a high fat diet are also contributing causes.
Sluggish Liver is a naturopathic term commonly used to describe sub-optimal liver function. It usually means the liver is not keeping up with its important metabolic and detoxification requirements and symptoms may result. Most commonly, these will be fatigue, headaches, irritability, bloating and nausea (especially after eating fatty foods) and constipation. Or, if sluggish liver function is an ongoing problem, it may result in blood sugar problems, high cholesterol or blood lipid levels, weight issues, hormonal imbalance including PMS and skin problems such as acne or psoriasis.
Herbs and Nutrients for Liver Health
St Mary’s Thistle has antioxidant properties that helps protect the liver from free radical damage.
Dandelion root is a traditional liver tonic and digestive stimulant.
Globe Artichoke stimulates the secretion of bile which assists the liver to digest fats.
Lecithin is a natural source of choline which facilitates the movement of fats in and out of cells and is required for healthy liver function.
B vitamins play a crucial role in the many processes of metabolism including the production of proteins, red blood cells, hormones and cholesterol.
Naturopathic Tips for Liver Health
| Ideas |
| Consider asking a health professional to help you identify any possible food intolerances or sensitivities |
| A well known home remedy is to squeeze half a lemon into room temperature water every morning. Sip it through a straw to protect the surface of the teeth from the acids in the lemon |
| Bitter foods stimulate the release of natural digestive enzymes which support optimal digestion. Bitter leaves such as endive, chicory, rocket and dandelion leaves are a great addition to a salad for this reason. |
| Diet |
| Avoid Fats that add to the workload of the liver such as full fat dairy products, margarines, processed vegetable oils (hydrogenated or trans fats), deep fried foods and cured and fatty meats. Instead choose unrefined polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats from fish, nuts, seeds, extra virgin olive oils and avocados. |
| Try to eat several serves of oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel or sardines) every week to maintain high levels of omega-3 fats. |
| Life style |
| Reduce consumption of alcohol, sugary foods and products made from processed white flour as well as artificial colours, flavours and preservatives. |
| Reduce caffeine - Dandelion root makes a great alternative to coffee |
| Stop smoking - tobacco smoke contains over 4000 different chemicals all of which need to be processed by the liver. |
| Reduce exposure to chemicals in the home as much as possible - try vinegar and bicarb soda as a cleaning alternative |
