Love Your Liver for Life

One of the most important of our body’s organs is the liver.

Many of the liver problems people have are as a result of the process of detoxification demands on the liver from foreign substances or drugs.

One quarter of the whole body’s blood supply is in the liver at any one time.

1 litre of bile is formed in the liver daily. The liver is often secondarily involved in other infections and diseases. Liver malfunctions can also result in diabetes, gallstones, jaundice, atrophy, sclerosis, constipation etc.

The liver has so many functions that the signs and symptoms of liver problems are numerous. Some of its functions are formation of urea, excretion of bile, the regulation of carbohydrates, synthesis of cholesterol, blood clotting factors and the detoxifying of foreign substances/drugs. It also plays a part in heat production; synthesis of vitamin A; formation of antibodies and antitoxins and storage of iron.

The liver has the job of breaking down the basic constituents of proteins [amino acids] and derives most of its energy from proteins, not from glucose as do most of the other organs of the body. To do this it needs large amounts of vitamin B6.

Fluid retention or oedema can be as a result of a drop in serum albumin, a plasma protein formed principally in the liver. This leads to an increase in flow of water from the capillaries to the interstitial compartment [space between the cells] which shows as oedema.

Liver problems may be indicated in migraine, food allergies and skin problems. Constipation may also result from a deficiency of secretions from the liver.

Other symptoms perhaps indicating a liver involvement include nausea and vomiting; loss of appetite; severe itching; excessive gas in the intestines or stomach, unaccountable dark stools or urine; jaundice.

Persons with liver problems are usually tired. In general the removal of saturated fats and drugs from the diet gives the liver some relief so that it can function easier in its detoxification role.

A strict mild food diet including globe artichoke with juices of carrot, beetroot and cucumber can help. Lemon juice in warm water with the addition of 2 tblspns of chlorophyll liquid a couple of times a day can be a good inclusion.

Antioxidant supplements containing vitamins C, E [helps digestion of fats] zinc and also selenium protect the liver from free radical damage. Specific supplements designed to support liver function include methionine and choline. Many contain St. Mary’s thistle. Lecithin is a source of choline.

Herbal teas including dandelion and red clover strengthen the liver, while fenugreek amongst its many functions is thought to allow the liver to produce more antihistamines.

Footbaths of artichoke leaves 3 days a week have been suggested as being good for the liver.

 he liver must be treated with respect if we expect the rest of our body to function at its peak so love your liver enough to support it in its many functions and it will love you for life.