Promoting Healthy Liver Functions

The liver is a vital organ with many functions; including the cleansing, removal of toxins, drugs and other waste products from the blood. It produces and excretes bile to help with proper digestion, absorption and nutrients in the body. The liver also stores glycogen, vitamins and other nutrients needed to produce energy. A healthy liver is essential our existence. So, what are some remedies that may promote and enhance the health and performance of the liver? To avoid drug interactions and potential side effects; dietary supplements should be taken with the advice and under the supervision your health-care provider.

Spirulina

Spirulina is a microscopic blue-green algae that thrives in alkaline water in warm climates. It's rich in vitamins E and B complex, and beta-carotene; a powerful antioxidant that works to protect cell tissues from free radical damages. Spirulina also contains copper, iron, zinc, selenium and the essential fatty acid, gamma linolenic acid. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, more research is needed to substantiate the benefits spirulina, but, there are preliminary evidence suggesting that spirulina may help to protect against liver damages and failure in individuals with chronic hepatitis. Spirulina is available in powder, flakes, pill, dried and freeze dried forms. UMMC recommends that, you purchase a reputable brand of Spirulina to avoid a product contaminated with toxic microcystins.

Betaine

Betaine is a nutrient and a methyl donor. According to the UMMC, a significant benefit of betaine's function as a methyl donor is its effect in promoting proper liver functions. Betaine also helps cellular production and assists the body to produce carnitine. Carnitine is an amino acid; carnitine works to transport fatty acids into a cell's mitochondria, or the energy factory of the cells. Betaine may help to protect the liver against fatty deposits as suggested by studies in rats. However, further study is needed to substantiate the benefits of betaine in individuals with liver disease. Foods rich in betaine include beets spinach, broccoli, grains and shellfish.
Betaine is available as a supplement in powder, tablet and capsule forms. Side effects of betaine may include nausea, indigestion and diarrhea.

Garlic

Garlic or Allium Sativum is commonly used in foods for flavor and seasoning throughout the world. Garlic is respected as a medicinal herb. In Russia it is called the RUssian penicillin; where it's used in preparations to treat respiratory conditions such as flu and sore throats. According to StartHealthyLife.com, garlic works to maintain the healthy functions of the liver. It inhibits lipid peroxidation in the liver, slowing down thge aging process in the liver.

Maintaining a Healthy Liver

To maintain a healthy liver; eat a healthy, well balanced diet. Have an adequate amount of fluids daily. Have regular exercise, avoid smoking ilegal drugs and limit the intake of alcoholic beverages.
Have a routine yearly medical check up.

http://www.rnceus.com/lf/lffx.html

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/spirulina-000327.htm

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/betaine-000287.htm

http://www.starthealthylife.com/page241.htm