Liver loving tips

Your liver is working all day, every day. You are constantly in a state of "detox" as your body works to clean itself and eliminate all the junk that makes its way in (things we don't need and can't use). Your body does this without even thinking. You're a detox machine!

Stress, vitamin deficiencies, genetics, constipation, dehydration, too much alcohol, pain medications, prescription medications and more can impede and slow deoxification and liver function.

When this happens, we are more susceptible to inflammation from chemicals, toxins, and "junk" that doesn't serve any purpose for us. This can lead to low energy, headaches, lethargy, brain fog, hormone imbalances, susceptibility to poor immune function and increased risk of cancer, autoimmunity and other chronic diseases.

Although detox is an intuitive process, it is still helpful to assist and support your detoxification capacity. Supporting your liver can help improve digestion, energy levels, hormonal balance, cholesterol and blood sugar levels and risk of chronic illness. It's a win-win.

Here are a few ways you can nudge your liver in the right direction:

• Fibre: It's necessary to encourage release of toxins from the liver and gallbladder.  It also helps reduce your risk of gall stones. It acts as a binder and sponge to eliminate and encourage regular bowel movements. Fibre also helps to feed the good bacteria/probiotics in your gut.
• Phytochemicals: These are the antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables! They are helpful for phase 1 and 2 liver detox. Bitter and sour fruits and vegetables can also stimulate the liver and gall bladder. This is why the old lemon water trick is popular. And let's not forget my new favourite broccoli sprout routine. Learn more from my Instagram post here.
• Hydration: The medium through which waste is eliminate from the body via sweating, urination and bowels. Aim for 2-3 litres of water daily.  Home made iced tea (without added sugar) counts as well!
• Sweating and Exercise: Moving your body moves the lymph which is also a carrier for eliminating waste and ensuring a robust immune system.  Bonus points if you have a trampoline or rebounder and regularly jump up and down!
• Protein: The amino acids found in protein are necessary in order for the body to construct glutathione - your main antioxidant in the liver. Glutathione levels decline with age. Researchers have found low glutathione levels associated with certain diseases of aging such as glaucoma, muscular degeneration and Alzheimer's.
• Supplements: There are a variety of supplements that I use to target liver detoxification. Milk Thistle, Dandelion, Choline, Berberine, NAC, and Glutathione just to name a few. Book a consult to learn more!

Yours in health,
​Dr. Melissa Bingeman