Give a little love to your liver!
The liver is the second most important organ. It performs more than 100 different functions. The main functions of the liver are metabolism of nutrients, regulation of body temperature, blood purification and production of bile which is used to break down fat so that it can be digested. The liver is the most important filtering organ so the more fat and toxins that are consumed the more impaired the metabolism becomes. A poorly functioning liver interferes with the absorption of many nutrients. Many of the major illnesses are due to overworked livers. Poor digestion, low energy level, depression, poor memory, hay fever and some skin conditions are often signs of a weak liver but because the liver has regenerative power, optimal health can often be restored.
The liver is the site of suppressed anger, frustration and resentment which needs to be released. According to the Chinese, the liver is one of the organs that age us. The liver is in charge of the smooth flow of energy and blood. Anger causes energy to be sluggish and a poorly functioning liver can affect the emotions in the form of irritability. Exercise is very important to get the liver moving and ginger helps to move stagnant energy in the liver.
There are several herbs that will support liver health such as milk thistle, turmeric, cayenne and dill along with many foods that should be eaten regularly such as garlic, onions, fresh vegetables in a variety of colors, berries, chlorophyll rich foods, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, flax, chia, hemp and avocados. Licorice root, burdock root, dandelion root and ginger make a very effective tea to help detox the liver.
It is also important to try to reduce or eliminate exposure or intake of toxins such a cigarette smoke, prescription drugs and artificial additives in processed foods.
A quick and simple way to detox the liver is to start the morning with a glass of freshly squeezed lemon juice in hot water to cleanse the liver and promote detoxification; this will also stimulate bile production.
For more information about what you have learned in this article or with any other health questions please contact Mindful Nutrition. You can visit their website at www.mindfulnutrition.ca, contact them for an appointment by calling (902) 759-1676 or drop by their location at the Whole Self Wellness Centre, 106 Stellarton Road, New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, B2H 1L8.
Also visit The Joys of Health and Wellness
320 Main Street, Antigonish.
by Jane Gallant
