8 Supplements to Support Your Liver
I get asked a lot in my clinic about supplementation and why it's important. We all know that healthy eating is crucial to a healthy body, but did you know that proper supplementation is also essential for successful detoxification of the liver, intestines, kidneys, skin and lungs? The correct supplements can reduce withdrawal symptoms from caffeine and sugar, maintain energy levels, and stimulate the elimination of toxic substances.
As part of liver awareness month I've already shown you how important the liver is, and how to feed your body to support it. Below you'll find the next step in liver health: eight supplements for liver detoxification and support.
Talk to you ND to find out the right combination for your body.
1. Milk Thistle
Milk Thistle contains some of the most potent liver-protective substances known, including silymarin, which inhibits the action of free radicals that damage liver cells. This supplement also stimulates protein synthesis, which results in the production of new liver cells to replace the damaged ones.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric has long been considered a powerful healing plant. Curcumin, the principal active ingredient, has demonstrated potent liver protective, detoxifying, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. Other effects of turmeric include lowering of cholesterol, improvement of fat metabolism and improvement of digestion.
3. Globe Artichoke
Artichoke head, leaves and roots have traditionally been used to improve digestion as well as liver, gallbladder and kidney function. The cynarin in artichoke has been found to stimulate bile secretion as well as lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels.
4. Dandelion Root
Dandelion Root is considered the ideal liver remedy because it is completely non-toxic and gently restores liver function. It enhances the flow of bile and supports the kidneys during cleansing and detoxification of the liver and bowels.
5. N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
There are a number of amino acids that help the liver process toxins. N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) is a precursor to glutathione, which is involved in the detoxification of heavy metals, solvents and pesticides.
6. Alpha-Lipoic Acid
This acid stimulates glutathione synthesis and has been shown to protect against liver and nervous system damage from heavy metals and other environmental toxicity.
7. Lipotropic Agents
Lipotropic agents are compounds that promote the flow of fat and bile to and from the liver, helping to decongest the liver and promote improved liver function and fat metabolism.
Lipotropic agents such as choline (from lecithin), betaine, methionine, vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid support proper digestion and bile secretion.
8. Vitamin C
No surprise here, Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant and is required for the synthesis of glutathione, which helps support our antioxidant defenses while preventing free radical damage from environmental toxins and optimizing detoxification pathways.