|
|
Articles for
Liver Health
View full list of articles
for
Liver Health
AUSTRALIAN FACT SHEET: Choosing vitamins for a healthy liver
-
06/19/2008
Choosing vitamins for a healthy liverThe following vitamins are said to have benefits for maintaining a health liver: Milk Thistle Globe Artichoke Dandelion Root Liquorice Root Milk Thistle Milk thistle is traditionally used as a detoxifying agent. It's said to have protective effects on the liver and improve its function. It is typically used to treat cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis and gallbladder disorders and is said to function well as a 'hangover cure'. Recommended dosage of Milk Thistle is 500mg per day. Globe Artichoke Globe Artichoke is said to protect the liver and stimulates the growth of new liver cells. It is often used in cases of liver damage and disease and comes from the same family as Milk Thistle. A daily dosage of 6000mg is recommended. Dandelion Root Dandelion root assists in the overall function of the liver. It stimulates the production of bile by the liver which is used by the body to break down dietary fats. The recommended daily dosage of Dandelion root is 1000mg. Liquorice Root Liquorice Root is often used to prevent liver toxicity at a dosage of 600mg per day. Disclaimer Healthy Comparisons does not give or purport to give any medical or healthcare advice and is not qualified to do so. You should not under any circumstances substitute qualified medical advice with information found in this fact sheet. The information contained in this fact sheet does not take into account the physical state, medical status or health requirements of any particular individual which are relevant to the proper diagnosis and treatment of any problem, condition or disorder. You should never use or act upon this information without first properly consulting, and seeking proper information and advice from, a qualified healthcare professional. Healthy Comparisons, its related companies and its licensors expressly disclaim all responsibility for and liability in respect of the accuracy of the information provided in the website, its improper application and the consequences of anyone's failure to obtain a proper medical examination and advice from a qualified healthcare professional in the relevant circumstances. © HealthyComparisons.com.au 2008
Liver Foods That Make Your Liver Stronger and Useful
-
02/05/2008
Liver Foods That Make Your Liver Stronger and UsefulMost people don't think about what foods are good for keeping their liver strong. But, if you have been discovering and using a diet that is good for your overall health, then, most likely you are helping your liver.
So here again is a list of healthy eating that will result in a strong useful liver.
Oils - use mostly olive oil for your food preparation. This oil can be heated to a relative medium level without causing free radicals. Use flax seed oil or fish oil every day.
Avoid margarine or any other artificial butter since their processing creates chemicals the liver cannot recognize as food. Use Ghee, which doesn't require refrigeration, or raw butter,
Sunflower, safflower, and other seed oils should be kept in the refrigerator to keep them from becoming rancid.
When you eat too much fat, the fat accumulates in the liver. The liver is responsible for breaking down the fat and using it for energy. Accumulated fat in the liver can become rancid producing free radicals that damage liver cells.
Food - try to buy and eat good organic food. Food that has been sprayed with pesticides is difficult to clean and these chemicals will get into your body as free radicals.
Protein - Cut down on the amount of protein that you eat. Most of us only need about 2-3 ounces of protein, but if you do physical labor you need plenty more. The problem with more is some of this protein may not completely digest in our stomach and move into the colon. There this undigested protein is decomposed by bad bacteria creating toxic matter. These toxins can be absorbed into the blood and cause the liver extra work in detoxifying them.
Sulfur Foods - Since the liver produces enzymes, which are used in every body chemical reaction, you can support this activity by eating foods such as Brussels sprouts, broccoli cabbage, seeds and nuts.
Vitamins - minerals - nutrients - The liver, just like all parts of the body, needs vitamins and minerals. Get these from fruits and vegetables or even fruit and vegetable juices. Ionic minerals, easily absorbed, can be purchased in bottles from WaterOZ and other brands. These ionic minerals can then be easily added to your juices without adding any unusual taste.
Sugar - Limit, reduce or eliminate the use of sugar since it interferes with enzyme activity throughout your body. Use fruits, whole grains, barley malt, rice syrup, dates, dried fruit, and honey
Lecithin - use lecithin every day for the Phosphatidyl choline, PC that it provides. PC helps build the liver cell membranes creating a healthier liver. Use lecithin in granules by adding them to salads and other liquid food preparations including smoothies.
There you have it, a small list of foods to eat to help your liver give you long life. Most likely you are already eating some of these foods and if so, then, it will be easy to add just one more good healthy eating habit.
Rudy Silva is a Natural Nutritionist. To get the latest information and tips on liver health go to: http://www.liverdamageprevention.for--you.com
DHEA - Nutrition & Environmental Medicine Fact File
-
03/04/2008
DHEA - Nutrition & Environmental Medicine Fact FileDHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is one of the most important antiaging and health promoting substances available to us if used correctly. DHEA is produced in the adrenal glands and is the most abundant circulating hormone in the human body. It influences more than 150 repair functions and maintains the body in a state of anabolic (rather than catabolic) metabolism. Levels begin to decline at the age of 28. At the age of 70, most people are producing only 10% of the levels they were in their 20s. Stress accelerates the decline in DHEA. DHEA supplementation to physiologic levels is very safe if done correctly because DHEA is a bioidentical hormone, synthesised from plant sources. This means it is exactly the same as the hormone that we produce in our body. Physical signs of low DHEA include: dry eyes, lifeless hair, thin pubic hair, dry skin, abdominal fat and cellulite. Symptoms include anxiety, low mood, fatigue that is constant all day and low libido. I have documented below the specific health benefits of DHEA. There are also dangers in tolerating low levels-- a study in 242 middle aged men showed that the men with the lowest levels of DHEA had the highest risk of death from all causes. The Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging showed that men who had the higher DHEA levels had significantly greater longevity compared to men with lower levels. Metabolism In human research, DHEA has been shown to promote muscle mass. Low levels of DHEA impair the body's ability to burn fat for energy and low levels of DHEA are associated with obesity. If you are struggling on an exercise programme to build muscle mass and lose fat and are not succeeding, have your DHEA levels checked. If they are low, supplementing with DHEA to bring your levels up to youthful physiological levels will dramatically improve your chances of success. Studies have shown that the maintenance of a good physical functional ability and quality of life is related to testosterone, oestrogen and DHEA levels. A study published in the November 2004 edition of the Journal of the American Medical Association found that supplementation with 50mg of DHEA for 6 months produced notable reductions in the abdominal wall and cavity. A study done by the University of California School of Medicine and published in the June 1994 edition of the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism followed 17 women and 13 men aged 40-70 for a 6 month period. It was a randomised, double blind, placebo controlled trial. They were given 50mg of DHEA for 3 months and then a placebo for 3 months. After 3 months of DHEA, 84% of the women and 645 of the men reported a significant increase in self perceived physical and psychological well being. This included better sleep, less anxiety, increased energy and better ability to handle stress. Overall Mortality A study reported in the July 2006 edition of the journal Annals of Epidemiology found that higher DHEA levels are associated with lower mortality rates in a group of elderly Taiwanese. 963 Taiwanese were followed for 3 years. Those with low DHEA levels had a 64% greater chance of dying in the following 3 years than those with higher DHEA levels. The Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging began in 1958 and continues. A paper published in the August 2002 edition of the journal Science found that those men in the study who had higher levels of DHEA lived longer, healthier lives than those with low levels of DHEA. Diabetes and the Metabolic Syndrome Insulin resistance is an epidemic in the Western world and is the root cause of the metabolic syndrome. People with diabetes have been shown to have reduced levels of DHEA. DHEA improves insulin sensitivity and reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A study in the March 2005 edition of the journal Diabetes has shown that DHEA administered to women with adrenal fatigue improves insulin sensitivity. In the study, 28 women with adrenal fatigue received either DHEA 50 mg or placebo. After 12 weeks, women in the DHEA group had significant declines in fasting insulin and glucose levels. Tests of insulin sensitivity were also improved. The researchers state that the evidence strongly suggests that DHEA increases insulin sensitivity, improves glucose metabolism and may play an important role in the prevention of type 2 diabetes. A study in the Polish Journal of Endocrinology has shown that DHEA supplementation improves insulin resistance and serum lipids in men with angiographically verified coronary artery disease. The study was a double-blind, randomised analysis of 30 men aged 41-60 who had low DHEA levels and coronary artery disease. They received either DHEA or placebo for 40 days. In the DHEA group, insulin levels decreased by 40%. Total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and blood glucose also significantly decreased. Adrenal Fatigue People with adrenal fatigue have low levels of DHEA and cortisol. With proper rest and nutrition, cortisol production can usually recover , however DHEA loss is usually not recoverable. DHEA supplementation is part of the programme to restore normal adrenal function. Depression DHEA supplementation has been shown to improve mood, libido, memory and overall well-being. A study reported in the February 2005 Archives of General Psychiatry found that the hormone supplement dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) was effective in treating midlife minor and major depression. 23 men and 23 women with midlife depression received either DHEA or placebo for six weeks. They then had another six weeks where the therapies were switched. Depression symptoms were evaluated after each six-week period. In both groups, depression scores improved significantly more with DHEA than placebo. Heart Disease Low levels of DHEA have been associated with coronary heart disease and hypertension. DHEA supplementation reduces the risk of developing both. A study on DHEA and heart disease showed that DHEA supplementation resulted in a 40% reduction in mortality due to heart disease and an overall 30% reduction in all cause mortality. DHEA reduces the proliferation of cells within arterial walls which causes atherosclerosis. It increases blood vessel dilation, decreases blood clotting tendency. It reduces platelet aggregation that eventually completely blocks off coronary arteries causing a heart attack. Additionally in patients who have had cardiac bypass surgery, low levels of DHEA predicted rapid degeneration of the new arteries. Individuals with higher DHEA levels have higher HDL (good cholesterol) and lower LDL (bad cholesterol) levels. Hypertension can also respond favourably to DHEA supplementation. Osteoporosis Low levels of DHEA are associated with osteoporosis in both men and women. Supplementation has shown improved bone density. Unlike most osteoporosis drugs which only stop further bone loss, DHEA can help build back some of the lost bone. Cancer DHEA induces cell death in malignant cells and controls abnormal cell growth. There is no data to suggest that DHEA promotes cancer. In fact cancer is associated with low DHEA levels. DHEA improves all of the body's natural cancer fighting systems. Animal studies have shown that DHEA supplementation reduces the risk of cancer of the liver, adrenals, pancreas, breast, lung, thyroid, colon, skin and lymphatic tissue. There is no evidence that DHEA increases the risk of breast cancer. Again, breast cancer is much more frequent in women with low levels of DHEA. The deficiency comes before the cancer and is very likely genetic in origin. A study in mice found DHEA largely prevented the development of breast cancer in a strain that normally had a high incidence of it. Officially, however breast cancer remains a contraindication to DHEA use. There is no evidence that DHEA increases the risk of prostate cancer. Studies have shown that DHEA actually inhibits prostate cancer and that low levels of DHEA are associated with elevated prostate cancer marker (PSA) levels. DHEA supplementation does not elevate PSA levels. Immune Function Supplementing DHEA increases the body's natural production of growth hormone and glutathione (the main intrinsic antioxidant). It is associated with improved immune function and a reduced incidence of autoimmune disease. Skin A large European double blind controlled study looked at DHEA supplementation over 12 months and found no adverse effects and no dangerous elevations of oestrogen or testosterone. However they did find increased bone density in women, improved libido and marked improvements in skin tone, hydration and thickness. Liver Health DHEA has been shown to improve liver function and enhance liver detoxification. This effect may contribute to DHEA's cancer preventing and fighting effect. Thyroid Declining levels of DHEA are associated with hypothyroidism. People with naturally high levels of DHEA are at decreased risk for thyroid disease. Stress DHEA protects against stress hormone induced damage. If DHEA levels are low, elevated stress hormones are associated with immune suppression, depression, brain degeneration and dementia. Sexual Health Small amounts of DHEA are converted in the body to testosterone and oestrogen but DHEA supplementation is not associated with a measurable increase in blood levels of oestradiol. However, women with low levels of testosterone may find that their levels return to normal just with DHEA supplementation. Sexual activity and libido in women are more associated with DHEA than testosterone levels. A six month study found that DHEA produced remarkable improvements in libido and sexual function in men with erectile dysfunction. A study published in a 2002 edition of the Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy found gave 111 premenopausal women aged 35-55 50mg of DHEA for 6 months. They reported marked improvements in sexual function, desire, arousal, lubrication, satisfaction and orgasm. Asthma and Allergies Clinical experience has shown that many patients with asthma and allergies will improve if their DHEA levels are shown to be low and appropriate supplementation takes place. Autoimmune Disease All most all patients with autoimmune diseases such as Crohn's Disease, ulcerative colitis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia have low DHEA levels. Most have symptomatic improvement with physiological DHEA replacement. Alzheimers' Disease Brain tissue contains six times more DHEA than any other tissue in the body. Some research has found that DHEA supplementation can help protect against Alzheimers. There are no known side effects. 2% of women experience overdose effects. This begins with oily skin, followed by acne, followed by growth of facial hair. In order for this to happen you would have to completely ignore the progress of development of oily skin and acne for several months. All these overdose effects are reversible with decreasing the dose of DHEA. There is no feedback loop for DHEA in the body so taking extra DHEA does not suppress endogenous production. Palpitations can occasinally occur as can hair loss in people who convert a lot of the DHEA to dihydrotestosterone. All these effects reverse with stopping DHEA. DHEA can never be a drug of abuse because it is not associated with abnormal muscle growth. Supplementation should be avoided in people under the age of 35 (they shouldn't be deficient), pregnant or nursing women, women with breast or uterine cancer and men with prostate cancer. As with any bioidentical hormone, DHEA should be given after levels have been tested and shown to be low. It should be given in physiological doses i.e. to keep levels in the target zone for optimal performance (which is usually the level of DHEA you had when you are in your 20s). At that age, the body produces only 40 to 60 mg of DHEA per day. Although in general hormones are best given as a cream, I usually recommend DHEA be taken orally. After being absorbed, the liver adds a sulphated molecule (to make DHEAS). The sulphated molecule appears to be necessary to keep the DHEA inactive until it reaches its target tissues. DHEA can be measured with a blood test. However remember that the normal range is huge and is given for different age groups. Therefore your result may be in the normal range for your age but it may be a level that is much lower than you were a few years ago and supplementation is still appropriate. Normal ranges are devised by checking levels in the general population and then selecting a range which includes most of those results. For example, at the age of 40 for any test, 1 person may have a result of 1, 2 people are at 2, 3 at 3, 4 at 4, 5 at 5, 4 at 6, 3 at 7, 2 at 8 and 1 at 9. The normal range then would be arbitrarily selected at something like 3-7 so it includes most of the results. The whole concept of anti-aging medicine and maintaining an anabolic metabolism is based on maintaining youthful levels of hormones, not levels that are within 2 standard deviations of the average population. Maybe you don't want to have levels which are the same as the rest of the population, most of whom have tired adrenal glands and deficient levels. What you want to know is what your level was when you were 25 or use a reference range determined from peak youthful levels, so you can maintain your DHEA at this level. DHEA should be prescribed and monitored by doctors who are familiar with the use of bioidentical hormones. In my opinion, DHEA is most effective if combined with 7-Keto DHEA. Doses of 5 to15 mg of DHEA in women and 25 to 50 mg in men are then appropriate. In my opinion it is not wise to use higher doses than this in order to chase a blood level unless the DHEA metabolites (androsterone and etiocholanolone) are monitored. DHEA should not be prescribed unless cortisol levels have been checked as well. If cortisol levels are low, DHEA supplementation will further reduce the cortisol levels. In cases of low cortisol, a comprehensive programme for treatment of adrenal fatigue should be instituted. This may include the replacement of cortisol with bioidentical cortisone. Women taking DHEA should be meticulous with monthly breast examinations. Because DHEA is metabolised to oestrogen, I recommend that all women on DHEA occasionally check urine hormone levels to monitor urinary oestrogen metabolites. Occasionally, small amounts of indole-3-carbinol or diindolmethane (DIM) are required if there is excessive production of the potentially dangerous 4 or 16 hydroxyoestrone metabolites. These are broccoli extracts which ensure oestrogen is broken down predominantly to its safe metabolite (2 hydroxyoestrone). All men over 40 on DHEA should have annual PSA (prostate specific antigen) levels and prostate examinations done. Micronised slow release DHEAS taken first thing in the morning and again at lunchtime is best. Many people are reluctant to use DHEA because they don't want to interfere with "Mother nature". They cite decreasing levels of DHEA as being a natural part of the ageing process. In my opinion, we interfere with Mother nature every time we drink chlorinated water, use fluoridated toothpaste, consume food additives, have mercury amalgams placed in our teeth, inhale air pollution, apply nail polish (well some of us anyway), eat abnormal fats which cause atherosclerosis and reduce the blood supply to the adrenal glands…..all of these things result in damage to our endocrine systems and reduce our hormone levels. Restoring our natural hormone levels is not messing with Mother nature, it's protecting it. About the Author Dr Greg Emerson is the Founder and Medical Director of the Emerson Health and Wellness Centre which opened in October 2005. He is a consultant in Nutritional and Environmental medicine. He is also a senior specialist in Emergency Medicine and in Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine. For 18 years he practiced in several large public hospitals including a period of time as an Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine at a major trauma hospital in Canada and as the Director of a leading Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine Unit. He is a lecturer, examiner and current board member for the Australian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine and a past-examiner for the Australasian College of Emergency Medicine. A long personal battle with illness led him on a profound exploration of healing processes and the prevention of illness. He reappraised both his medical focus and the way he approached health care delivery. He believes in the intrinsic ability of the body to heal itself if the underlying cause of the illness is addressed. His practice revolves around three core principles, in the belief that almost all non-traumatic illnesses will respond to these principles: - Elimination of food and chemical sensitivities
- Alkalinisation and detoxification
- Balancing of hormones
Dr Emerson regularly lectures both within Australia and internationally on Nutritional and Environmental medicine. He also runs his own successful international medical conference. His mission is to provide people with the knowledge, tools and motivation to live a life of extraordinary health, vitality and longevity.
Gallstones - Nutrition & Environmental Medicine Fact File
-
03/04/2008
Gallstones - Nutrition & Environmental Medicine Fact FileGallstones occur in 10 to 15% of the Australian population. The gall bladder sits underneath the liver and is the storage bag for bile. Bile is secreted by the liver to aid in the digestion of fat and the absorption of fat soluble nutrients. Gallstones occur when chemicals within the bile solidify. The two main types of stones are cholesterol and pigment stones. Cholesterol stones are the most common. Stones occur either because the chemicals are too concentrated or the gall bladder fails to empty properly on contraction. Gall bladder pain occurs when the stones get stuck in the duct that travels from the gall bladder to the small intestine. Surgery to remove the gall bladder is necessary if one of the stones get stuck because of the risk of pancreatitis and infection of the gallbladder. However surgery is usually done only because of recurrent attacks of pain. An alternative to surgery in these cases is to be tested for food sensitivities. Food sensitivities usually precipitate gall bladder pain. Eliminating the sensitivities almost always eliminates the gall bladder pain attacks and therefore the need for surgery. Food sensitivities are best detected by having a blood test looking for IgG, IgM and IgA antibodies. That's why the pain disappears on admission to hospital- all foods are stopped and intravenous fluids are started. If the gallbladder has previously been removed then the absorption of the fat soluble nutrients- vitamins A, D, E and K plus some essential fatty acids will be reduced. Bile still gets to the intestines from the liver but not in adequate amounts (the storage bag has been removed). To increase their absorption, it is a good idea to take a bile salt supplement after any meal containing fat or oil. About the Author Dr Greg Emerson is the Founder and Medical Director of the Emerson Health and Wellness Centre which opened in October 2005. He is a consultant in Nutritional and Environmental medicine. He is also a senior specialist in Emergency Medicine and in Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine. For 18 years he practiced in several large public hospitals including a period of time as an Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine at a major trauma hospital in Canada and as the Director of a leading Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine Unit. He is a lecturer, examiner and current board member for the Australian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine and a past-examiner for the Australasian College of Emergency Medicine. A long personal battle with illness led him on a profound exploration of healing processes and the prevention of illness. He reappraised both his medical focus and the way he approached health care delivery. He believes in the intrinsic ability of the body to heal itself if the underlying cause of the illness is addressed. His practice revolves around three core principles, in the belief that almost all non-traumatic illnesses will respond to these principles: - Elimination of food and chemical sensitivities
- Alkalinisation and detoxification
- Balancing of hormones
Dr Emerson regularly lectures both within Australia and internationally on Nutritional and Environmental medicine. He also runs his own successful international medical conference. His mission is to provide people with the knowledge, tools and motivation to live a life of extraordinary health, vitality and longevity.
Liver Health - Nutrition & Environmental Medicine Fact File
-
03/04/2008
Liver Health - Nutrition & Environmental Medicine Fact FileIt is crucial we maintain our liver in optimal health. The main functions of the liver include: - detoxification
- cholesterol control
- blood sugar control
- hormone and enzyme production
- immunity
- metabolism of food
- protein synthesis
- production of anabolic repair chemicals.
No health program will work well if the liver is not in top shape. Unfortunately it is constantly assaulted by alcohol, caffeine, drugs, food additives, viruses and environmental toxins. Toxins (known as xenobiotics) can range from car exhaust and amines produced from barbecueing meat to dry cleaning chemicals and xenoestrogens in plastic wraps. The liver is the body's main way of detoxifying xenobiotics as well as intrinsic toxins formed from metabolism. Understanding how the liver does this is crucial to maintaining an optimally functioning liver. The liver is actually made up of rows of cells separated by fluid spaces through which blood flows. This system acts as a filter removing dead cells, microorganisms, chemicals and drugs. After filtration, the liver then detoxifies the chemicals. Essentially this is a two-step process, known as Phase 1 and Phase 2. Most environmental toxins are fat soluble which means they dissolve only in oily solutions such as fat tissues and cell membranes and not water. This makes it hard for the body to eliminate them and they can be stored there for years. Organs particularly effected are the brain and endocrine organs. Neurological disorders and hormonal imbalances can therefore occur with environmental toxin accumulation. Many of the toxins are carcinogenic and can lead to cancer. The two phases together are designed to convert fat soluble toxins into water soluble molecules that can be excreted in the urine and bile. Unfortunately, the molecules produced during Phase 1 can actually be more toxic than the original molecules. This is because the chemicals added to the original molecules enable the Phase 1 products to act like free radicals in the liver. As long as Phase 2 is functioning well, the potentially damaging Phase 1 products are quickly converted into harmless molecules and excreted. Phase 2 adds another molecule such as cysteine, glycine or sulphur to the Phase 1 compound to render it both harmless and water soluble. Illness develops if there is a problem with either phase because the body cannot detoxify appropriately. Both phases become less efficient with age. There are also some people who are either genetically rapid or slow metabolisers. Nutritional deficiencies and liver pathology can also interfere with either phase. The main enzyme system responsible for Phase 1 detoxification is known as the Cytochrome P-450 system. Excessive toxic chemicals such as pesticides can disrupt this enzyme system and actually increase its activity, resulting in large amounts of damaging free radicals being produced. Other chemicals causng an increase in Cytochrome P-450 activity include caffeine, alcohol, dioxin, organophosphates, paint fumes and exhaust fumes. Maximising the efficiency of the livers detoxification phases is crucial for health and vitality. There is no point in having youthful levels of anabolic hormones, if the organ which carries out their anabolic instructions is not working properly. Remember that liver function tests commonly ordered by your doctor don't actually measure liver function -- they measure levels of enzymes released by damaged liver cells. You can be a long way down the track of disordered function before you will ever see any evidence of cellular damage. The progressive levels of liver damage look something like this: - Normal liver function.
- Mildly abnormal liver function.
- Severely abnormal liver function.
- Fatty liver.
- Mildly abnormal cellular damage.
- Severely abnormal liver damage.
- Cirrhosis.
- Liver cancer.
So a person will be at level 4 before even registering as having a liver problem on a routine blood test and usually it's actually at level 5 before any action is taken. If you really want to know how your liver is functioning, some laboratories do a "functional liver detoxification profile" (FLDP) which is a much better test. Maintaining a healthy liver is not complicated. As discussed, the liver essentially works as ais a large filter followed by detoxification. Long-term health of any filter is dependent upon reducing the amount of debris filtered and regular cleaning. To optimise liver function: - Minimise alcohol consumption. That's a maximum of one drink per day. If you have impaired liver functioning, avoid alcohol altogether.
- Avoid hepatitis.
- Reduce exposure to pollutants, pesticides and herbicides. Many of the common herbicides depress the function of cytochrome P450 and other enzymes crucial for detoxification.
- Consume a largely plant based diet and use organic fruit and vegetables. Reduce consumption of refined carbohydrates, deep fried and processd foods.
- Avoid coffee.
- Minimise prescription drug use and avoid recreational drugs.
- Regularly cleanse the liver (see cleansing fast).
There are many products on the market promising to cleanse and improve liver function. While this is a good idea, the liver is a complex organ and no one liver supplement can do this. The liver is a complex organ with many different phases to its function. Many products, while good for improving one phase 1 of liver detoxification will have no effect or actually make Phase 2 worse. Nutrients specifically required for Phase 1 detoxification include vitamins E, C and the B group, glutathione and caretenoids. Specifically required for Phase 2 include the amino acids glutamine, glycine, taurine, cysteine and organic sulphur compounds (such as eggs, garlic, onions and broccoli). A cleansing fast will always help the liver but I always suggest a FLDP before any long term liver supplementation so it can be focused and specific. Common liver support products I may use for which there is good evidence for include milk thistle, silymarin (an extract of milk thistle), goji, schizandra, rhodiola rosea, DHEA and N-acetyl-cysteine. Brocolli extract has also been shown to increase production of Phase 2 detoxification and antioxidant enzymes. Glutathione is the body's chief intrinsic antioxidant and is responsible for much of the liver's detoxification function. Several amino acids have been shown to increase glutathione levels (glutamic acid, cysteine and glycine) and some herbs increase its activity, particularly curcumin. For more information on glutathione, see Free Radicals. About the Author Dr Greg Emerson is the Founder and Medical Director of the Emerson Health and Wellness Centre which opened in October 2005. He is a consultant in Nutritional and Environmental medicine. He is also a senior specialist in Emergency Medicine and in Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine. For 18 years he practiced in several large public hospitals including a period of time as an Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine at a major trauma hospital in Canada and as the Director of a leading Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine Unit. He is a lecturer, examiner and current board member for the Australian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine and a past-examiner for the Australasian College of Emergency Medicine. A long personal battle with illness led him on a profound exploration of healing processes and the prevention of illness. He reappraised both his medical focus and the way he approached health care delivery. He believes in the intrinsic ability of the body to heal itself if the underlying cause of the illness is addressed. His practice revolves around three core principles, in the belief that almost all non-traumatic illnesses will respond to these principles: - Elimination of food and chemical sensitivities
- Alkalinisation and detoxification
- Balancing of hormones
Dr Emerson regularly lectures both within Australia and internationally on Nutritional and Environmental medicine. He also runs his own successful international medical conference. His mission is to provide people with the knowledge, tools and motivation to live a life of extraordinary health, vitality and longevity.
Natural Liver Support Cleansing Products
-
05/29/2008
Natural Liver Support Cleansing ProductsThe liver is involved in thousands of biochemical mechanisms making it second only to the brain in importance and complexity. Natural health practitioners are also acutely aware of the detrimental effects on the liver of modern living, with its chemicals, excessive fat intake, pesticides, hormones, and stress. This suggests that we as a culture are in need of liver support. You should consider liver support supplementation if you: ″ Have a history of a Fatty Liver
″ Consume Alcohol
″ Consume Tobacco Products
″ Have been taking Medications/Drugs
″ Are exposed to Environmental Toxins or Chemicals or Second Hand Smoke
″ Have a history of Liver or Gall Bladder Problems Dandelion Dandelion root enhances bile flow, thus improving conditions such as liver congestion, bile duct inflammation, hepatitis, gallstones, and jaundice. Dandelion increases bile flow by affecting the liver directly to cause an increase in bile production and flow to the gallbladder, and exerting a direct effect on the gallbladder by causing a contraction and release of stored bile. Dandelion's hepatic tonic effect may be attributable to the high choline content. Milk Thistle Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) has been used since Greco-Roman times as an herbal remedy for a variety of ailments, particularly liver problems. Several scientific studies suggest that active substances in milk thistle (particularly silymarin) protect the liver from damage caused by viruses, toxins, alcohol, and certain drugs such as acetaminophen (a common over the counter medication used for headaches and pain; acetaminophen, also called paracetamol, can cause liver damage if taken in large quantities or by people who drink alcohol regularly.) Many professional herbalists recommend milk thistle extract for the prevention and/or treatment of various liver disorders including viral hepatitis, fatty liver associated with long term alcohol use, and liver damage from drugs and industrial toxins such as carbon tetrachloride. Chester Ku-Lea is a health nutrition consultant and is the owner of www.AstroNutrition.com - a provider of premium health nutrition and sports supplements.
Looking after your liver
-
12/25/2008
Looking after your liver Your liver is amazing, without it you couldn't digest your food, absorb nutrients or dispose of toxic substances from your body. Protecting your liver does much for your overall health and wellbeing. Eating a rich overindulgent meal can leave you feeling 'full' and sick. This is typical of the symptoms people with liver problems experience on a regular basis because their liver is unable to digest fats properly. Fats by their very chemical structure are the hardest food component for your body to digest, that's why they keep you feeling full for so long, unlike simple sugars which give you a quick energy burst. Lifestyle factors and the natural ageing process mean that many of us do not breakdown fats as well as we should. Those who regularly consume excessive amounts of alcohol may also suffer from what is termed a 'fatty liver'. What does your liver do? The liver is one of your body's most vital organs and plays a key role in most metabolic processes. All aspects of your health rely on a properly functioning liver, since it is the body's major organ for processing nutrients, metabolites, pollutants and excess hormones. Essentially your liver is like a waste disposal factory for your body. The liver cleans the body's blood supply of dangerous toxic substances by chemically processing them so they can be excreted via the bile, and is vital for fat, carbohydrate and protein metabolism. It makes the blood lipoproteins – LDL and HDL – which regulate cholesterol, as well as making clotting factors and other substances crucial for the blood's functions. While the liver is able to regenerate after damage, the broad spectrum of toxins it faces including alcohol, prescription and over-the-counter medications, viruses and other toxic agents, can threaten the capacity of the liver to process and eliminate these bodily wastes. The body's defences are overwhelmed and these toxins tend to accumulate in the body's fat cells. The body is able to process some of these toxins naturally through the production of bile. Like the way detergent cleans grease off dishes, the liver creates bile to emulsify fats, breaking them down into smaller molecules. Bile helps excrete toxins, promoting a cleaner, healthier liver. However, those with a poorly functioning liver may not produce enough bile for this vital function to occur effectively enough. Changing to a healthier lifestyle will improve liver health; however factors such as exposure to viruses, pharmaceuticals and toxins are often beyond your control. Signs your liver needs help - Digestive upset (ie. discomfort after eating fatty meals)
- Difficulty metabolising alcohol
- Bowel upset (ie. diarrhoea, constipation, flatulence)
- Jaundice (a yellowing, sickly tone to the skin and eyes)
- Increased sensitivity to allergens, itching skin
- Increased cholesterol levels
- General feeling of fatigue and being unwell
Herbal help A poorly functioning liver can affect you in various ways (see box), the good news is that a medicinal herb used as far back as the fourth century BC can help boost liver health and help improve its performance. This medicinal herb is Globe Artichoke, now-a-days is primarily used as a liver remedy and to help reduce fat levels circulating in the blood. Globe Artichoke (cynara scolymus) stimulates the secretion of bile, which assists in the clearing of fats, cholesterol and toxins. Popular in Europe for the treatment of mild dyspepsia and indigestion (particularly following a meal high in fat), Globe Artichoke can also help to maintain normal, healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels when used in conjunction with a low fat diet. Much attention has recently centred on Globe Artichoke's active component, cynarin which is largely found in the leaves. However it is likely that many other compounds, some related to cynarin, contribute to the observed therapeutic effects. Results from clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Globe Artichoke in the treatment of dysfunctions of the liver and gall bladder, digestive complaints such as the sensation of fullness, loss of appetite, nausea and abdominal pain. In a randomised controlled study of 274 patients with functional dyspesia, physicians concluded that the overall effectiveness of Globe Artichoke was judged to be statistically significant.1 The extract dose used in trials to produce an effect was 1920mg. As well as protecting the liver from toxins, Globe Artichoke supports the natural regeneration of liver cells. Studies show this herb is well tolerated but those with allergies to Globe Artichoke or other members of the daisy family of plants should avoid its use. People with existing liver or gall bladder conditions should seek the advice of a healthcare professional before using Globe Artichoke to treat their condition. The foods your liver loves - Fresh vegetables, particularly cruciferous ones such as broccoli and cabbage.
- 'Green foods' such as spinach, spirulina and wheatgrass are liver-friendly.
- Vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus fruit, strawberries, red capsicum, dark green vegetables and kiwi fruit, boost anti-oxidant levels that protect the liver and help the body's healing processes.
- A diet low in saturated fats – these are hard for the liver to process.
- Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines) provide an excellent source of omega-3 fats which helps combat inflammation, a side effect of some liver conditions.
- Snack on nuts and seeds. Brazil nuts are a good source of selenium, a powerful anti-oxidant. Almonds, sunflower or pumpkin seeds are another nutritious choice.
Herbs & Health tips for liver health this festive season - Reduce consumption of caffeine, sugary foods, saturated fats and products made from processed white flour.
- Stop smoking – it adds more toxic chemicals for the liver to process – and stay out of smoky enclosed areas.
- Sensible consumption of alcohol (especially over the festive season) a Globe Artichoke supplement will help protect your liver if you are indulging.
- Reduce exposure to chemicals in the home and workplace as much as possible – try natural cleaning product alternatives, such as eucalyptus oil and bicarb soda.
- Drink at least two litres of water a day, to flush out the liver. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice or chlorophyll also helps.
- Breathe deeply to assist the liver in detoxifying, as the liver is dependent on the amount of oxygen coming in through the lungs. Aerobic exercise (even walking) helps for the same reason.
- A Globe Artichoke supplement may help protect your liver and support healthy liver function.
Aliment Pharmacol Ther.; 2003 Dec; 18(11-12):1099-105. PMID: 14653829
Liver Detox Diet
-
05/29/2008
Liver Detox DietThe liver is an amazing organ. Tasked with removing toxins from the body, the liver acts as a natural filter. However, with today's poor, overly processed dietary habits and overindulgence, it is easy for your liver to become overwhelmed and "clogged". The liver filters the toxins from the bloodstream, chemically changing them into harmless substances that can be excreted easily. As one of the largest and most important organs in the body, the liver's efficiency is vital to overall health. If the liver is unable to remove all of the harmful substances from the bloodstream, the toxins build up in our tissues and cause numerous health problems, including elevated cholesterol (and all of the problems related to high cholesterol), digestive problems including constipation, nausea and irritable bowel syndrome, allergies, depression and disruption of sugar levels within the bloodstream. Chronic fatigue and pain are often signs of a liver that is not functioning efficiently. There are many herbal supplement plans on the market to help with liver detoxification. Many of them have great testimonials and are not too uncomfortable to use. Try to avoid the harsh colon cleansers and complete fasts, as these tend to "shock" your system and release a large volume of harmful substances into the bloodstream at one time. You should always start with a simple less stressful plan for liver detox. Make a lifestyle change that will allow your liver to function more efficiently. First, have a liver detox diet that eliminate toxins from your diet and flush your system with filtered water. Eat organic foods and wash your fruits and vegetables carefully. Substitute organic, lean meats and fruits and vegetables in their natural form for processed foods. Switch to "liver healthy" foods that will support liver function: beats, artichokes, broccoli and cabbage, seaweed and radishes. Add a good multi-vitamin and support liver function with milk thistle, shown to regenerate liver cells. Liver detoxification may be the answer if you are feeling achy and tired. Support your body's natural filter and eat a liver healthy detox diet. You may be surprised at how much better you'll feel. Sandra Kim Leong publishes information on detoxification and cleansing. Her site includes information on colon cleansing, liver cleansing, kidney cleansing, detox diets and juice fasting. Please visit http://www.Detox-Cleansing.com.
Cleansing liver herbal teas
-
05/29/2008
Cleansing liver herbal teasWhen spring comes it is time for a liver cleanse. This is a good time to rejuvenate the liver for the coming year of work. One good way to cleanse the liver is to use herbal teas. They are easy to use and they provide a powerful punch to reawaken the liver. Here is a herbal formulation for the liver provided by Brigitte Mars (herbalist in Colorado) called "Puri-Tea" which consist of: · Peppermint, red clover, fennel, licorice
· cleavers, dandelion, oregon grape root, burdock root
· butternut bark, chickweed, parsley root, nettles. Another liver herbal tea is: · Fennel Seed (1 part), Fenugreek (1 part)
· Flax Seed (1 part), Licorice Root (1/4 part)
· Burdock (1/4 part), Peppermint (1 part). Here's another herbal combination that is good for detoxifying and cleansing the liver: · Yellow Dock root, Dandelion root, Licorice root
· Red sage, Sarsaparilla, Hyssop
· Pau de Arco, Milk Thistle Seed, Parsley leaf. Here's something else you can do for you liver. Buy an extract of Milk Thistle Seed. Then when you make the liver tea's list here, add 2-3 full droppers of the Milk Thistle Seed extract to the tea. Here are the effects of some of the herbs listed above. · fennel seed - white cell formation, acid/alkaline balancing
· peppermint - body cleanser and toner
· red clover - blood purifier
· licorice - adrenal stimulation
· cleavers - anti-infection
· dandelion - cleansing and strengthening
· oregon grape root - cleansing, building
· burdock root - purifying
· nettles - rich in minerals
· chickweed -
· fenugreek - helps to eliminate toxins and mucus
· yellow dock root - cleansing, white cell formation
· pau de arco - cleansing, white cell formation
· milk thistle seed - cleansing, building You can make these teas yourself or look for a ready made one at a health food store. What I do is buy a 1/2 or 1 oz of each herb. Then I mix one full tablespoon of each herb into a mason jar. Shake it up and its ready to go. Preparing the tea Boil 1 1/4 cup of distilled water in a glass container. Add 1 heaping tablespoon of herbal mixture. Let tea sit for 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink when it cools down a little. Drink one cup of tea before breakfast and one before dinner for about 1-2 months. Rudy Silva has a degree in Physics and is a Natural Nutritionist. He writes a newsletter called "Natural-Remedies-Thatwork.com." His most recent website which discusses more natural remedies is called: http://www.fatty-acid-remedies.for--you.info
Your Liver is Important - So Keep it Healthy by Detoxifying It
-
05/29/2008
Your Liver is Important - So Keep it Healthy by Detoxifying ItThe liver in the human body is one of the most important organs especially when it comes to removing toxins. A person's liver will neutralize a large number of toxic chemicals (those that are produced internally and those which we get from the environment around us.) The liver has several roles to play in respect to detoxification of the body as it filters the blood in order to remove large toxins, as well as synthesizing and secreting bile which are full of cholesterol and other fat soluble toxins. So in order for it to work at its optimum levels at all times, you should carry out a liver detox once in a while. Below we look at some herbs which can cleanse it of the toxins as well as help to enhance the production of bile and build up healthy liver tissue. 1. Milk Thistle. This herb is particular good for the liver as it helps to stimulate its regular functions. 2. Turmeric Turmeric helps to cleanse the liver naturally as well as gently, and as it has anti-oxidant properties that boosts the body's production and creation of bile due to the compound curcumin that it contains. Often curcumin is also used to help in the treatment of gallstones. 3. Lycopodium This is one of the most important herbs to be used in a liver detox program. This herb is normally taken from mosses and it especially good for cleansing not just the liver but the kidneys as well. 4. Dandelion An extremely efficient herb as it clears not just toxins and poisons that are excreted by the liver, but it also clears waste from the body also. Again this is another herb which can help to increase the production of bile in the liver. 5. Yellow Dock This purifies the liver and helps to dissolve any fat which has collected in the liver. 6. Fringe Tree This is another herb which helps to stimulate the liver's production of bile as well as preventing the enlargement of it. It also helps to prevent hepatitis and other chronic illnesses that are often associated with the liver. There are many ways in which you can consume these herbs in order to carry out a liver detox from teas to capsules or as a powder. Don't buy another vitamin, supplement, or Natural Cure until you've read these Master Cleanse Secrets Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Calvin_Kuefer
Natural Liver Support Cleansing Products
-
05/29/2008
Natural Liver Support Cleansing ProductsThe liver is involved in thousands of biochemical mechanisms making it second only to the brain in importance and complexity. Natural health practitioners are also acutely aware of the detrimental effects on the liver of modern living, with its chemicals, excessive fat intake, pesticides, hormones, and stress. This suggests that we as a culture are in need of liver support. You should consider liver support supplementation if you: - Have a history of a Fatty Liver
- Consume Alcohol
- Consume Tobacco Products
- Have been taking Medications/Drugs
- Are exposed to Environmental Toxins or Chemicals or Second Hand Smoke
- Have a history of Liver or Gall Bladder Problems
Dandelion Dandelion root enhances bile flow, thus improving conditions such as liver congestion, bile duct inflammation, hepatitis, gallstones, and jaundice. Dandelion increases bile flow by affecting the liver directly to cause an increase in bile production and flow to the gallbladder, and exerting a direct effect on the gallbladder by causing a contraction and release of stored bile. Dandelion's hepatic tonic effect may be attributable to the high choline content. Milk Thistle Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) has been used since Greco-Roman times as an herbal remedy for a variety of ailments, particularly liver problems. Several scientific studies suggest that active substances in milk thistle (particularly silymarin) protect the liver from damage caused by viruses, toxins, alcohol, and certain drugs such as acetaminophen (a common over the counter medication used for headaches and pain; acetaminophen, also called paracetamol, can cause liver damage if taken in large quantities or by people who drink alcohol regularly.) Many professional herbalists recommend milk thistle extract for the prevention and/or treatment of various liver disorders including viral hepatitis, fatty liver associated with long term alcohol use, and liver damage from drugs and industrial toxins such as carbon tetrachloride. About The Author
Chester Ku-Lea is a health nutrition consultant and is the owner of http://www.AstroNutrition.com - a provider of premium health nutrition and sports supplements.
Fight Cirrhosis of the Liver with Vitamins
-
06/19/2008
Fight Cirrhosis of the Liver with VitaminsCirrhosis of the Liver is the chronic inflammation of the liver, which results in scar tissue replacing the normal liver tissue. The scar tissue of the liver blocks the flow of blood through the organ and disrupts the normal functions of the liver. The liver performs more functions than any other organ in the human body. The liver is responsible for metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, fats and minerals. It removes poisons, such as alcohol and drugs from the blood stream. The liver converts glucose to glycogen and stores it for latter use as a source of energy. It stores iron and manufactures elements essential for blood clotting. The liver also breaks down old red blood cells and converts the hemoglobin into bilirubin. In the United States in 2001 chronic liver disease killed over 27,000 people making it the 10th leading cause of death for men and the 12th for women. Cirrhosis is most commonly caused by alcoholism and hepatitis C, but has many other possible causes. Sometimes more than one cause is present in the same patient. Alcohol seems to injure the liver by blocking the metabolism of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Alcoholic cirrhosis develops in 15% of individuals who drink heavily for more than a decade. Fluid retention in the abdominal cavity is the most common complication of cirrhosis and diuretics may be necessary to suppress fluid retention. Cirrhosis can also cause immune system dysfunction, leading to infection. The damaged liver can not clear ammonia and related nitrogenous substances from the blood. These poisons are carried to the brain and result in neglecting personal appearance, unresponsiveness, forgetfulness, trouble concentrating, changes in sleep habits, and the loss of the sex drive. Cirrhosis is generally irreversible once it occurs. Treatment generally focuses on preventing progression and complications by encouraging a healthy diet with a reduction of salt, and abstaining from alcohol and drug intake. If the liver ceases to function or the complications of cirrhosis cannot be controlled a liver transplant will be necessary. Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with Cirrhosis such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc, Magnesium, L-Carnitine and Coffee. Vitamin A is an important immune system stimulant. DR. Nauss reported a reduced T-cell immune response in patients with a Vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A deficiency may increase the risk of cancers of the lung, larynx, bladder, esophagus, stomach, colon, rectum and prostate. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat cells of the human body and can reach toxic levels. DO NOT take more than the recommended dosage of Vitamin A. Vitamin B taken together as a team perform vital biological processes including aiding in the healing process for congestive heart failure and reduces fluid retention. It is required for the development of red blood cells. Vitamin C is essential for defending the body against pollution and infection. It enhances the immune system. It aids in growth and repair of both bone and tissue by helping the body produce collagen. Vitamin E supplies Oxygen to the heart and the other muscles in the body. Accelerates wound healing and aids in the functioning of the immune system. Zinc is needed for healing and maintaining healthy tissues. Amino Acids are the building blocks of protein and are the vital components of skin, hair, muscle tissue, the body's organs, blood cells, various enzymes and hormones. Zinc also has a profound influence on the body's ability to resist disease. Magnesium is needed to keep the proper pH level in the blood and helps in the metabolism of calcium and vitamin C. L-Carnitine helps convert nutrients into energy. Studies have recently suggested that coffee consumption may protect against cirrhosis, especially alcoholic cirrhosis. Always consult your doctor before using this information. This Article is nutritional in nature and not to be construed as medical advice. David Cowley has created over 50 articles about the relationship between diseases and vitamins. For other Articles on Diseases and Vitamin Needs feel free to visit my Web Site at http://www.dfcinvestment-team.com/
More information about vitamins for liver health
-
07/23/2008
Which vitamins should I take to improve my liver function?What is the best brand of vitamins for liver health?Which vitamins should I take to improve my liver function?What is the best vitamin to take for a hangover?Which vitamins should I take to prevent hangovers?The answer to all these questions and more on the Healthy Comparisons Vitamin Forum. Ask questions and share experiences. Join our healthy community today.
|