The liver is an important organ that is responsible for a multitude of processes.
It filters blood, stores glucose for energy, produces and secretes bile for fat digestion and is necessary for converting T4 to the active hormone T3.
Our liver has two pathways for detoxification - Phase 1 and Phase 2
In Phase 1, fat soluble toxins undergo processes such as oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis and hydration. These toxins are metabolized into smaller substances that make it easier to process.
In Phase 2, the substances undergo another multitude of processes to detoxify and make them water soluble, so they can be excreted via the stool or urine.
And in some cases, the liver becomes overwhelmed by additional toxins and its functionality becomes burdened with more work. This is called toxic backlog, where toxins may build up and circulate in our bodies, or become stored in our fat instead of being properly excreted.
Symptoms of toxic backlog include:
Digestive problems
Bad breath
Fatigue and disrupted sleep (especially between 2-4am)
Weakness
Constipation
Headaches
Hormonal imbalance
Joint pain
Chemical sensitivity
Weight loss resistance
Asthma or allergies
Blood sugar disorders
Chronic infections
Indigestion and acid reflux, especially with fatty foods
Mood swings, poor mental function, lowered stress tolerance
Nutrient malabsorption
PMS symptoms, decreased libido, and infertility
Skin disorders, including acne and rosacea
And the thyroid?
Well if your liver is overwhelmed, then your body may not be able to convert T4 to the active T3 hormone correctly. For those with thyroid disease, I highly suggest having your liver enzymes checked periodically, to make sure that the liver is functioning optimally. Here is a snapshot of what a liver lab test looks at:
Don’t worry, there are things you can do at home to support your livers health.
#1 Decrease Any Toxic Load
Move to all natural household cleaners
Purchase antibiotic and hormone free meats, fish, eggs and dairy
Limit and moderate your intake of alcohol and caffeine and avoid smoking and drugs
Begin to limit your use of plastics, especially plastic food wrap
Use chemical free beauty and skincare products
Use an air purifier in your home
Incorporate more whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds
If possible, invest in a whole house water filtration system. If not possible, then install water filters on your sink faucets and shower heads and use a portable water filtration system for drinking water such as Brita or Berkey
#2 Support the Liver through Nutrition and Lifestyle
Decrease your intake of refined carbohydrates
Optimize your gut microbiome by eating foods such as ferments, bone broth, collagen, gelatin, soy and legumes/beans
Incorporate herbs that support the liver such as cilantro, turmeric, dandelion root, milk thistle, artichoke extract, burdock root and chlorophyll
Eat high quality protein, to help support Phase 2
Eat more liver supportive foods such as beets, citrus and avocados
Make sure the liver supporting vitamins are optimal - B complex, vitamins A, C, D and E
Eat plenty of fiber to help empty the GI tract
Find ways to manage stress and invite more peace and calm
Sweat through movement or the use of a sauna or steam room