The liver is the second largest organ, after the skin and acts as the metabolic powerhouse of the body. Not only does the liver carry out more than 500 essential tasks, it’s also the only organ with the ability to regenerate itself. The liver secretes bile, a digestive fluid; metabolises proteins, carbohydrates, and fats; stores glycogen (glucose) and vitamins, removes wastes and toxic matter from the blood; regulates blood volume; and destroys old red blood cells. Your liver does a lot!
This natural purification system works alongside other organs of elimination like the gallbladder, skin, kidneys, lymphatic system and bowels – all of which play an individual role in filtering different toxins from the body. If your liver is working overtime and is overloaded, you may notice signs of compromised detoxification function which may show up in your body as:
- Skin breakouts
- Feeling generally sluggish
- Pale stools
- Trouble digesting fatty meals
- Menstrual disturbances
- Headaches
If you are ticking two or more of these symptoms, perhaps it’s time for some liver loving! Supporting liver health through diet largely focuses on moderation:
- Allow 3 hours between dinner and sleep. Liver detoxification occurs while we sleep, between 11pm and 3am. If you have a meal or a high kilojoule beverage (in particular, alcohol) late at night, your liver has to focus on digesting what was consumed instead of concentrating on detoxifying.
- Release stress daily. Stress hormones compete with the liver’s attention being a filtration system. Not only does the liver process harmful substances that you consume, but also the body’s own chemicals, such as oestrogen, cortisol (stress hormone) and histamine. Stress can distract the liver performing its rightful job.
- Consume less fats. As your liver works like a janitor processing fats, consuming less of these hard-to-digest foods, found in greasy fried or fast foods and processed meats can ease the burden placed on your liver.
Liver-loving foods: the 3 B’s
Several key nutrients are essential for proper liver function and can be provided through simple dietary changes. Berries, broccoli and beetroot support liver health. Berries provide polyphenols that fight oxidative stress. Broccolis contains glucosinolates that aid detoxification processes and Beetroot offers powerful antioxidants like betalains, which protect liver cells and reduce oxidative stress, making these foods excellent additions to a liver-friendly diet.
Herbal heroes
Herbs are the icing on the cake when it comes to holistic liver care and can help to round out your liver detoxification protocol.
- St Mary’s thistle is a herb well-known for its hepatoprotectant activity and supports healthy liver function.
- Dandelion root is traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to support liver health and relieve symptoms of indigestion.
For comprehensive liver support consider Herbs of Gold Liver Care. Liver Care contains St Mary’s thistle standardised to contain silybin, the active constituent thought to be responsible for the herbs beneficial activity and Dandelion root.
Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
