Liver Detox - The Facts

You want to know tested methods for liver detoxification? This article provides you simple steps you can easily implement for liver detoxification.

The liver is the largest organ in the body carrying out many important functions. The functions include control of amino acid and glucose in blood as well as the detoxification of the blood stream. The liver is the only that carries out the function cleansing the body system and rendering toxic substances harmless. Sources of harmful substances in the body include, anti nutritional factors in foods, drugs and alcohol. High concentrations of toxic substances in the body impair liver function. The liver is designed in such a way that it has filters, which detoxifies the body. For the liver filters to function effectively, it must be clean and healthy.

Presence of toxic substances in the liver can cause liver diseases such as gallstones, hepatitis and jaundice. Liver diseases produce certain symptoms including, vomiting, and yellowing of conjunctiva and skin, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite and itching. One of the methods for liver detoxification is to follow a healthy diet pattern on daily basis.

To be considered first is the effective diagnosis. This is done by laboratory tests to find out the type of detoxification needed. There are two pathways for liver detoxification, phase 1 and phase 2.

Next, go for liver detox diets. Taking protein foods such as fish and egg can activate the phase 1 pathway of detoxification. Other foods are cabbage, broccoli, tangerines and oranges. For phase 2 pathways includes, asparagus, broccoli, walnuts, cabbage, tangerines, oranges and avocado and fish oils. Generally, fresh fruits and vegetables are rich in the amino acid glutathione and vitamin C. Both glutathione and vitamin C are good antioxidants which remove free radicals from the body. For this reason most liver detox diets recommend these foods. Other antioxidant vitamins are beta-carotene and vitamin E.

Apart from antioxidant vitamins, simple nutrients such as, vitamin B and calcium play very important roles in the elimination of harmful chemical substances from the body.

Drink enough water. Water is important here to flush waste products in the cleansing process. The water source should be clean and free from microbial action. This ensures no harmful substances are introduced to the body system. Bottled water is recommended for safety.

Use of herbs. Many herbs con substances, which are effective for liver detoxification. A good example of plants used for liver detoxification is milk thistle. Milk thistles contain chemical substances called flavonoids. Flavonoids prevent liver damage as well as carry out liver detoxification functions. The mechanism of action of flavonoids involves prevention of the depleting of glutathione and enhancing the level of glutathione in the body. It has also been used as remedy for liver diseases including, hepatitis liver cirrhosis.

Avoid foods, which are not liver friendly. Certain foods are harmful to the liver. It is of no use going through the detoxification process if you cannot stop those habits that are harmful to your liver. Make effort to avoid artificial flavors. Saturated animal fats and alcohols should also be avoided. It is more advisable to take organically produced foods.

In conclusion, liver detox is useful to maintain a healthy liver, the only organ involved in detoxification. The detoxification process involves a healthy diet plan, use of herbs and adjustment of lifestyle.