Updated: 10/24/23
Are you concerned about your liver health? You should be! Liver disease is a serious problem that can have detrimental effects on all other bodily functions. Luckily, there are steps you can take to maintain healthy liver functioning and reduce the risk of developing this illness. Supplementation with natural remedies can help greatly in this endeavor, as they often contain beneficial herbs and nutrients that support proper detoxification of toxins from the body. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what exactly a liver does for our bodies, possible causes of liver diseases, and which natural supplements might be best to support overall health of your precious organ. Read on to learn more about how to naturally boost your liver’s wellbeing!
What is Liver Disease?
The liver is an important organ in the human body, located below the diaphragm and to the right side of the abdomen. Blood is filtering through the liver. Its major functions include processing nutrients absorbed from food, removing toxins from the body and regulating body metabolism.
Liver disease is a condition that affects the functioning or structure of the liver. This condition can be hereditary, by exposure to toxins, diseases like hepatitis A, B, C, or D, or lifestyle factors like alcoholism, obesity, and poor nutrition. The severity of liver disease ranges from mild to severe, and as the condition progresses, it can cause permanent damage to the liver if left without treatment.
The most common reason for liver disease is the non-alcoholic fatty liver. Cirrhosis is usually the result of most liver issues. This usually involves intense scarring of the liver, and the organ usually declines in its performance rapidly. It often ends in liver failure.
Stages of Liver Disease
In the early stages of any liver disorder, the organ becomes inflamed. Inflammation can occur because the body is trying to fight a virus. However, prolonged inflammation could lead to bigger issues. Without immediate treatment, the liver could start to scar. This is known as fibrosis.
Cirrhosis is the scarring of the liver where the healthy tissue is replaced by hard scar tissue. This stage could lead to a variety of different health issues.
Stage 1: Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is the earliest stage of liver disease. It is by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver cells, which can cause inflammation and damage to the liver. This stage can be asymptomatic or present with mild symptoms such as fatigue or discomfort in the upper-right abdomen. Fatty liver disease is the most common type of liver disease and can be reversible through lifestyle changes such as weight loss, healthy diet, and exercise.
Stage 2: Hepatitis
Hepatitis, which means inflammation of the liver, can be caused by viruses (like hepatitis A, B, and C), excessive alcohol consumption, medications, and other toxins. Symptoms of hepatitis can range from mild to severe and can include yellowing of the skin and eyes, fatigue, abdominal pain, and nausea. Treatment options for hepatitis include antiviral medications, lifestyle changes, and in severe cases, a liver transplant.
Stage 3: Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a serious and irreversible stage of liver disease that occurs when healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue. This can be by any of the causes of hepatitis as well as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis can cause severe symptoms such as jaundice, swelling in the legs, and confusion. Treatment options for cirrhosis involve lifestyle changes to minimize the damage, medications to prevent further damage, and in some cases, a liver transplant.
Stage 4: Liver Failure
Liver failure occurs when the liver can no longer function due to extensive scarring and damage. The symptoms of liver failure can include confusion, abdominal swelling, and bleeding disorders. Treatment options for liver failure include liver transplant surgery to replace the damaged liver with a healthy liver from a donor, in which if the disease is severe, this may be the only option.
Both adults and babies can suffer from these diseases.
Liver Disease Symptoms
The liver is an integral part of the body’s digestive system. It can even regenerate cells to a certain extent. However, repeated issues or harm could lead to inflammation, which could proceed to scarring. Scarring can change the liver’s structure and keep it from functioning properly. In most cases, the early stage of liver disease doesn’t show any symptoms. Some of the common liver disease symptoms are in a list below in detail.
Fatigue and Tiredness
A feeling of nausea can occur due to the buildup of toxins in the bloodstream when the liver is not able to filter out toxins. While tiredness is a common symptom, Research is still underway to understand exactly how damage to the liver can cause fatigue and cause one to feel sluggish.
Dark-Colored Urine
The color of urine is often an indicator of health. In this case, amber or brown urine can be a symptom of a possible liver disorder. The color change is due to the buildup of excess bilirubin when the liver is not working properly to break it down as it usually does.
Pale Stool
The liver usually releases bile salts, which is why the stools are dark in color. If the stool is pale, it could mean that the liver is not functioning properly. Black stool can indicate advanced liver disease, which requires immediate medical attention.
Loss Of Appetite
The liver also helps produce bile, a fluid necessary for digestion. When the liver is not working correctly, bile production may slow, and the digestive system may struggle to break down fats and digest food properly. This can lead to a loss of appetite, feeling full quickly, or nausea.
Abdominal Discomfort
The liver is located on the right side of the abdomen, just below the rib cage. If the liver swells or experiences inflammation, it can cause abdominal pain, discomfort, or bloating. In advanced liver diseases, fluid accumulation in the abdomen, also known as ascites, can cause significant pressure and discomfort.
Jaundice
This condition is caused by the buildup of bilirubin when the liver cannot process it properly. The eyes and skin may take on a yellowish tint. The skin may also feel itchy with jaundice.
Easy Bruising
When the liver receives infection, the body’s ability to produce clotting factors can also limit. This can lead to bruising easily or bruising more severely than one would expect.
Changes in Mental and Cognitive Function
Advanced liver disease can affect the brain and cognitive function, leading to confusion, forgetfulness, and difficulty concentrating. This condition is known as hepatic encephalopathy, and it can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Other neurological symptoms of liver disease can include tremors, muscle weakness, and agitation.
Spider Naevi
This condition refers to the spider-shaped clusters of arteries that start showing up on the skin. While it is common in healthy women, its presence on the upper body of men could indicate a liver disorder.
Body Odor
Those suffering from liver disorders could experience excessive sweating and increased unpleasant body odor. This could be due to a sudden increase in blood sugar.
Causes of Liver Disease
Fatty Liver
This is among the most common issues, especially when the patient also has alcohol-related issues. With the fat accumulating in the liver, it could cause the cells to enlarge or damage, leading to cirrhosis. This is also common in those who have diabetes or obese.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis can be caused by a multitude of things, with the most common causes being excessive intake of alcohol or a hepatitis infection. In this condition, the liver cells progressively receive replacement by scar tissue, which can affect the functioning of the liver drastically and lead to end-stage liver failure.
Cancer
Many types of cancers can start from the liver. The cause behind this is usually chronic hepatitis with cirrhosis, though there are other contributing factors as well. Cancer cells from a tumor in other parts of the body could also lead to secondary tumors in the liver.
Infiltrative Liver Disease
This could include different kinds of granulomatous diseases, sarcoidosis, or metastasis of cancer in the liver.
Galactosaemia
When your body doesn’t react as expected to particular milk sugars, it can potentially harm the liver and other organs. This is an inherited disorder, and quite rare in occurrence.
Autoimmune Liver Disease
In this disorder, there is a rapid and uncharacteristic increase in immune cells. This has the power to damage the liver cells. This includes primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis and autoimmune hepatitis. In most cases of primary biliary cirrhosis, women become infection, while with primary biliary cirrhosis it is most common to see men with this disorder.
Viral Hepatitis
Viral hepatitis is caused by viruses that infect the liver, leading to inflammation and damage to the liver cells. Hepatitis A, B, and C are the most common types of viral hepatitis. They can spread through contaminated food, water, blood, sexual contact, needles, and other bodily fluids. Vaccination and proper hygiene practices can prevent the onset of viral hepatitis.
Genetic Factors
Certain genetic factors can lead to liver disease. For instance, hereditary hemochromatosis can cause an accumulation of iron in the liver leading to damage. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can affect liver function and cause cirrhosis. Genetic testing and counseling can help identify and manage these underlying causes of liver disease.
Hemochromatosis
This genetic disorder allows the body to store higher levels of iron, eventually damaging the pancreas, liver and the heart.
Can Liver Disease be Reversed?
The answer is yes. The liver is the only internal organ that can regenerate itself, which means that with the right treatment and lifestyle changes, liver disease can be reversed in its early stages. However, the chances of reversing liver disease depend on several factors such as the cause of liver disease, how severe the damage is, and the body’s ability to heal.
How Liver Disease is Diagnosed
If your doctor thinks you may have liver disease based on your symptoms and physical examination, they may recommend further tests to confirm the diagnosis. Here are some common tests that doctors use to diagnose liver disease:
- Blood tests: Blood tests are done to measure liver enzymes, which can indicate liver damage. Your doctor may also test your blood for the presence of viruses that can cause liver disease, like hepatitis B and C.
- Imaging tests: Imaging tests like ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help your doctor get a picture of your liver and detect any abnormalities.
- Liver biopsy: A liver biopsy involves removing a small piece of liver tissue for examination under a microscope. This can help your doctor diagnose liver disease and determine its severity.
Liver Disease Treatment
The treatment for liver disease generally depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. In more severe stages, hospitalization may be necessary.
Medication
If the liver disorder has arisen due to hepatitis, it can be controlled by taking medication as it could restrict the damage to the liver cells caused due to the virus or their treatment. Medicines will also receive prescription to slow down the advancement of some types of liver cirrhosis. Medication could also work to deal with symptoms like pain, tiredness, itching and nausea.
Eat a Healthy, Balanced Diet
One of the best things you can do for your liver is to eat a healthy, balanced diet. This means avoiding processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in fat and cholesterol. Instead, focus on eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like those found in avocado, nuts, and seeds. A diet that is rich in fiber can also help keep the liver working properly by reducing the amount of fat that is in storage in the liver.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is essential for good liver health. Water helps to flush out toxins and other harmful substances from the body, which can help reduce the workload on the liver. It’s also important to avoid alcohol and sugary drinks, which can be hard on the liver and contribute to liver damage.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise is important for maintaining good health, and it can also help support healthy liver function. Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, which is important for liver health. It can also help lower your risk of developing fatty liver disease, which is a common cause of liver damage.
Take Supplements
There are several supplements that can help support liver health and function. Milk thistle is one of the most popular liver-supporting supplements, as it has been shown to reduce inflammation in the liver and protect liver cells from damage. Other supplements that may be helpful for liver health include dandelion root, turmeric, and artichoke.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can contribute to a variety of health problems, including liver disease. Finding ways to manage stress, such as through meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, can help reduce your risk of developing liver disease.
Quitting Alcohol
Those who have cirrhosis due to excessive alcohol intake should quit drinking. If it is not possible or if one finds it difficult to quit, your doctor could suggest an alcohol addiction treatment program. Since even the tiniest amount can be toxic to the liver, consumption should be stopped entirely.
Liver Transplant
Liver transplant is a complex surgical procedure that involves surgically removing the damaged liver and replacing it with a healthy liver from a donor. The donor liver can receive obtaining from a deceased person or a living donor. The liver transplant surgery can take up to 12 hours, and the patient will require close monitoring in the intensive care unit (ICU) for several days.
Living with Liver Disease
Understandably, living with cirrhosis or any other liver disease can be tough and taxing on both the body and mind. However, there are natural remedies for liver disease that is to provide relief. While in most cases, there is no noticeable pain, although some do feel pain after eating. Liver pain receives a misdiagnosis with kidney or abdominal pain. Handling pain due to liver inflammation includes advice such as taking over-the-counter pain relievers.
Seeking Support
Living with liver disease can be challenging, but finding a support group or talking to a healthcare professional can help alleviate stress and provide you with valuable information and resources.
Liver Disease in Pregnancy
Pregnancy is an exciting time for women as they prepare to bring a new life into this world. However, for women who have pre-existing liver conditions or develop liver disease during pregnancy, it can be a challenging time filled with uncertainty. Liver disease during pregnancy affects about one in 10 pregnant women, and it can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby. Ignoring early signs and symptoms can put both the mother and the baby at risk. Therefore, it is essential to know about liver disease in pregnancy, its causes, symptoms, and treatment.
Liver Disease and Itching
The exact cause of itching in liver disease patients is not clear, but it is thought to be related to the buildup of bile salts in the skin that can result from impaired liver function or blockages in the bile duct. Additionally, substances produced by the liver, such as histamine, can contribute to itching.
How to Manage Itching with Liver Disease
While it may be tempting to scratch the itch, doing so can make it worse and lead to infections. Here are some strategies for managing itching associated with liver disease:
- Moisturize: Dry skin can contribute to itching, so make sure to keep your skin hydrated by using a moisturizer that is free of irritants or fragrances.
- Cool down: Applying a cool compress or taking a cool bath can help soothe itching skin.
- Don’t scratch: While it may be tempting to scratch, it can make the itching worse and even lead to infections. Instead, try to distract yourself with another activity like reading a book or watching a movie.
- Try topical treatments: There are a variety of topical treatments available, such as lotions or creams, that can help relieve itching. Be sure to talk to your doctor before trying any new treatments.
Supplements for Liver Disease
Having antioxidants, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in your diet can improve your liver health. Fruits, grains, olive oil, vegetables, nuts, and fish are all good for your health and especially for your liver.
Ginger Root
Ginger is used as a treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease thanks to triglyceride-lowering properties. The presence of antioxidants can counter against the oxidants that are responsible for the issue. Studies have shown that ginger can help reduce inflammation, support digestion, and protect against oxidative stress. Ginger can also stimulate bile production, which helps detoxify the liver. Ginger can brew as a tea, adding to food as a spice, or taking in supplement form.
As a supplement, ginger root extract powder should be taken in a dose of 1,000 mg once a day.
Dandelion Root
This supplement has been considering to be beneficial to those with liver ailments due to its ability to improve the flow of bile. Dandelion root could detoxify the liver and assist with skin and eye problems. Dandelion root has used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat liver problems. It contains compounds called taraxacins that have shown to improve liver function by increasing the production of bile. Additionally, dandelion root has anti-inflammatory properties that may help protect the liver from damage.
A dandelion root extract dose of 1,000 mg twice a day, is ideal.
Curcumin Extract Powder
Curcumin has long been believed to help against chronic liver damage since it is said to reduce toxic oxidative stress. It has been shown to have a protective effect on the liver and may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver. Additionally, Turmeric has shown to help lower liver enzymes and cholesterol levels in animal studies.
Taken as a supplement curcumin extract should be taken in a dose of up to 1,000 mg once a day.
Pure Milk Thistle Extract Powder
Milk thistle extract is an anti-inflammatory as well as an antioxidant, both properties may help support good liver health. Milk thistle is a herb common in liver health. The active ingredient in milk thistle is silymarin. Studies have shown that silymarin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which protect the liver from inflammation and damage. In this regard, milk thistle receives a recommendation for individuals with liver disease causing chronic alcohol consumption and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Though milk thistle is a natural herb, overconsumption can have negative effects. A person with liver disease should always seek advice from their doctor before starting any supplement. Taken milk thistle extract powder in a dose of 250 mg, once a day.
N-acetyl L-cysteine (NAC)
NAC is an amino acid that is commonly used to treat acetaminophen overdose. It works by increasing the levels of glutathione, an important antioxidant that plays a key role in liver detoxification. Taking NAC as a supplement can help to promote liver function and reduce the risk of liver damage.
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA)
ALA is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to have neuroprotective and liver-protective properties. Studies have shown that ALA can help reduce liver inflammation, improve liver function, and reduce liver enzymes.
Artichoke
Artichoke is a herb commonly used in cooking that offers numerous health benefits, including liver protection and detoxification. It contains a compound called cynarin, which has hepatoprotective properties that can improve liver function and prevent liver damage. Artichoke can also stimulate bile production, which aids digestion and toxin elimination from the body. Furthermore, artichoke extract powder has antioxidant properties that can help protect the liver from oxidative stress caused by liver disease.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Within the obese demographic the number of those suffering from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease has increased. Consuming Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and liver fat (x, x). Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for numerous functions in our bodies, including cellular health, inflammation regulation, and heart health. Some studies have indicated that omega-3s may decrease the risk of liver disease by regulating inflammation and fat metabolism. In a clinical trial, patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease receiving omega-3 supplements, leading to a significant reduction in liver fat.
Healthy fatty acids can be added through diet or supplementation, take 3 omega 3-6-9 soft gels a day.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant known to help reduce oxidative stress in the body. Oxidative stress can cause inflammation and damage to liver cells. In a clinical trial, patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease receive treatment with Vitamin E, and the results show a significant reduction in liver inflammation and fat accumulation. Hence, vitamin E supplements receives a recommendation for individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Coffee
Consuming coffee is believed to reduce the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease as the caffeine can help in breaking down the fat stored in your liver. Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, and it also has many health benefits. Studies have shown that coffee can reduce the risk of liver diseases such as cirrhosis, liver cancer, and NAFLD. Coffee contains caffeine and other compounds that can enhance liver function, reduce inflammation, and prevent liver damage. However, it is important to avoid excessive coffee consumption, as it can have negative effects on your health.
Green Coffee Powder
Green coffee bean powder is an excellent source. They are simply coffee beans that haven’t experienced roasting yet. They are by grinding up these un-roasting beans into a fine powder. Green coffee bean powder contains chlorogenic acid, which has been shown to improve liver function by reducing inflammation and protecting liver cells. It also contains other antioxidants that help protect the liver from damage.
Liver disease supplements and green coffee bean powder can take in capsule or powder form. The dosage will depend on the specific supplement you choose, so it’s important to read the label carefully. Liver disease supplements are typically receive digestion once or twice a day, while green coffee bean powder can combine into your favorite drinks or added to smoothies.
The Bottom Line
There are multiple liver diseases, each of them due to certain conditions. The diagnosis of the underlying reason is extremely important as it will help understand the type of treatment needed. Nausea, fatigue, and change in color of urine or stool are all symptoms of possible liver disorders.
The causes could range from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and autoimmune diseases to inherited disorders and cancer. The best treatment is to ensure the person has the medicines prescribed regularly and follow a healthy diet. A range of supplements may help the symptoms, tied in with pain management for those who require it.
Dandelion root, turmeric, and artichoke supplements are widely available in health stores and online. However, it is essential to consult your doctor or healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Moreover, the recommended dosage may vary depending on your age, health status, and other factors. Most supplements are available in capsule or tablet form, and some may combine with other liver-supporting supplements, such as milk thistle and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC).
In conclusion, liver disease can be a debilitating condition that can significantly impact your health and wellbeing. However, supplements such as dandelion root, turmeric, and artichoke can potentially aid liver function and even prevent liver damage. It is essential to remember that supplements are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle, and a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and low alcohol consumption are all vital for maintaining liver health. If you are considering taking liver supplements, consult your doctor or healthcare professional to ensure it is safe for you.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease