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Support Your Liver & Age Better
by author Jodie Peacock, ND

Today’s fast-paced environment exposes us to hundreds of different toxins on a daily basis. Toxins come from the cars we drive, the food we eat, the air we breathe, and even our homes.

The liver is responsible for over 500 enzymatic reactions that assist our bodies to cope with this toxic burden. Even though the liver is considered essential for detoxifying, it is often overlooked when people consider how best to support their body in healthy aging.

Antioxidants for healthy aging

Antioxidants help the body to fight free radicals, which contribute to aging by causing oxidative damage to the body. The liver produces a powerful antioxidant called glutathione. Two important precursors necessary for the liver to create glutathione are N-acetlycysteine (NAC) and selenium, which can be obtained through diet or supplementation.

Herbs for best liver function

The liver is made up of cells called hepatocytes, which have an amazing ability to regenerate. There are several herbs that can assist the liver with its ability to repair and regenerate cells.

Using these supplements can help to ensure that your liver is working optimally. This will mean that your body is able to properly deal with the toxins it is exposed to, reducing cellular damage, and helping you to look and feel healthy and energized.

Consult your natural health care practitioner for more information on the correct supplement and dosage to support your liver health.

milk thistle (Silybum marianum)

How it works: prevents liver damage and stimulates the liver to grow new hepatocytes

Typical daily dose: capsule: 500 mg daily

dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

How it works: regulates liver function by stimulating the liver to make more bile; also has anti-inflammatory effects

Typical daily dose: tea: 1 Tbsp of dried herb per cup of tea, taken up to 3 times daily

turmeric (Curcuma longa)

How it works: stimulates liver to create bile; has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action; may assist in cancer prevention and treatment

Typical daily dose: capsule: 200 to 600 mg taken daily with food; can also add this traditional Indian spice, in its powdered form, to meals when cooking

Did you know?

The liver is our largest internal organi and is responsible for over 500 different functions. These include:

fighting off infection
neutralizing toxins
producing proteins and hormones
regulating blood sugar
helpng the blood to clot

Jodie Peacock, ND, is a naturopathic doctor and director of the Root of Health multidisciplinary clinic in Oakville, Ontario. Her clinical areas of focus include women’s health and sports medicine.

Source: alive #324, October 2009

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