Good maintenance is required for the largest gland in our body.
Many natural supplements can help your body with its overall health. The most critical organ in our bodies is the liver, which has a vital role in detoxification and metabolism. It also plays an essential part in maintaining blood sugar levels by converting glucose into glycogen or storing it as fat. In addition to this, the liver helps keep other organs such as kidneys, lungs, and spleen. Hence, any damage done to the liver will affect these organs too. Since there are no symptoms associated with
damaged livers, people often ignore them. However, they should not be ignored because even minor problems may turn out to be serious ones later on when left untreated.
What substances harm the liver?
The following substances have been found to cause liver damage: alcohol, acetaminophen, prescription drugs, herbal products, recreational drug use, heavy metal poisoning, certain foods like raw onions and garlic, and some medications. Some of these chemicals are toxic to the liver at low doses but harmless at higher amounts. For example, paracetamol causes severe liver injury if taken in
large quantities over several days.
What are some of the best natural supplements for having a healthy liver?
There are several ways to treat the liver naturally. Some of those include:
1) Herbs have been used since ancient times to cure various diseases, including liver disorders. They contain compounds called flavonoids, which are responsible for their medicinal properties. For example, garlic contains allicin, which fights against bacteria and viruses. This herb also boosts immunity and prevents infections. Other examples of herbs include turmeric, ginger, ginseng, aloe vera, and milk thistle.
2) Bitter Orange: Citrus fruits, including bitter orange, prevent fatty deposits on the liver. These fruits also reduce cholesterol levels and regulate glucose metabolism.
3) Aloe Vera Juice: Drinking aloe vera juice can stimulate bile secretion and increase digestion. It also improves bowel movements and eliminates toxins from the body.
4) Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil contains oleic acid that cleanses the liver.
5) Water – Drinking plenty of pure filtered water daily supports proper digestion and eliminates toxins from the system. If possible, drink more than eight glasses per day.
6) Antioxidants: Vitamins such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Beta Carotene are essential nutrients that help maintain a robust immune system. They play a vital role in protecting cells from free radical damage. Some foods containing antioxidant substances include fresh fruit juices, dark chocolate, red wine, tomato products, nuts, legumes, whole grains, eggs, milk, yogurt, and tea.
7) Anti-Inflammatory Agents: Natural herbs like Boswellia serrata, Croton tiglium, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Silybum marianum, Withania somnifera, and Zingiber officinale.
8) Hepatoprotective agents: Herbs such as Glycyrrhizae radix, Scutellaria barbata, Schisandra Chinensis, Commiphora myrrha, Artemisia annua, Phellodendron amurense, and Panax notoginseng.
9) Milk Thistle: As mentioned above, milk thistle is one of the best natural remedies available today. Its main active ingredient, silibinin, protects the liver from chemical toxicity. Regular intake of milk thistle reduces fat accumulation in the liver, thus helping to improve overall health.
10) Green Tea Extract: Green tea extracts contain polyphenols called catechins that protect against cell degeneration.
11) Ginger – This spice boosts immunity and fights infections. Moreover, ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties that relieve pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. The root of ginger also aids in detoxification and reduces indigestion problems.
12) Turmeric – Curcuminoids contained in turmeric have potent antioxidants and fight various cancers. A recent study reveals that curcumin may help prevent Alzheimer’s Disease.
What are some medicines available in the market that helps to keep the liver healthy?
Many over-the-counter drugs claim to be effective in treating liver diseases. These medications usually work by reducing the number of toxins produced within the body. But most of them only provide temporary relief. Most commonly prescribed medicine includes acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen.
What minerals are bad for your liver?
1) Iron: Too much iron damages the liver by causing inflammation. Taking supplements containing high amounts of iron increases the chances of developing cirrhosis.
2) Copper: Excess copper accumulates in the liver and leads to liver failure.
3) Manganese: High levels of manganese cause jaundice. Other symptoms include fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
4) Chromium: When consumed in excess, chromium becomes toxic.
5) Selenium: It has been found that selenium deficiency can lead to fatty livers.
Conclusion: Is it safe to take a liver supplement?
Yes! However, always consult your doctor before taking any dietary product. Take note that some herbal medicines taken on their own or mixed could prove dangerous if used without medical supervision. Also, do not use these products when pregnant or nursing mothers.