The liver is an astonishing powerhouse organ that plays a pivotal role in maintaining our overall health, with more than 500 critical functions under its belt. By gaining insight into its remarkable anatomy, functions, and potential diseases, we can take charge of our well-being by avoiding harmful habits and nourishing it with beneficial foods and lifestyle choices. Through detoxification procedures, we can support the liver’s healing process and alleviate any existing conditions. With this knowledge, we can proactively prevent liver issues and optimise overall health by prioritising the well-being of their liver. Read more!

Liver anatomy

The impressive liver takes the crown as the largest organ in the human body, residing in the upper-right quadrant of the abdominal cavity like a regal monarch ruling over the domain of your health. Astoundingly, it can tip the scales at a weighty 1.8kg, occupying a space below the diaphragm, nestled among the stomach, intestines, and right kidney. This cone-shaped, dark reddish-brown organ extends from the 5th rib down to the lower border of the rib cage, with the gallbladder as its loyal companion just below the right lobe.

The liver has four lobes or sections- the right, left, caudate and quadrate. The liver is made up of hepatocyte cells. Remarkably, hepatocytes can reproduce upon injury, however repetitive injury results in liver failure and death.

The remarkable function of your liver

The liver is a multitasking marvel, orchestrating over 500 vital functions with precision. From producing bile to metabolizing macronutrients, storing vitamin and minerals, and synthesizing essential plasma proteins, this powerhouse organ stands as a beacon of health and vitality. With a remarkable ability to detoxify the blood, resist infections, and regulate body metabolism, the liver is an unsung hero constantly at work to safeguard our well-being. Holding about 13% of the body’s blood supply at any one moment, it not only filters and purifies the blood but also processes and eliminates harmful substances through bile and urine, ensuring optimal functioning and vibrant health.

When things go wrong: diseases

The liver, a resilient guardian of our well-being, faces a myriad of challenges from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and viral hepatitis to liver cancer and cirrhosis. These formidable foes threaten its vitality and function, underscoring the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and diet for its preservation. Inherited diseases like Hemochromatosis and Wilson’s disease add to the liver’s burden, alongside autoimmune conditions that demand vigilance and care.

Viruses, alcohol, drugs, and obesity lurk as threats, highlighting the imperative of safeguarding this vital organ through mindful choices and preventive measures. The liver’s resilience and capacity to regenerate remind us of its extraordinary capacity for healing and renewal when nurtured with diligence and respect.

Symptoms of liver disease

Whilst at times there are no symptoms of liver disease, the following can occur and should be addressed quickly.

• Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)
• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal bloating
• Swelling of legs and ankles
• Itchy skin

• Dark coloured urine
• Pale, bloody, or black faeces
• Persistent fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Easily bruising
• Nausea

Nurturing your liver

Embrace a nourishing diet rich in cooked vegetables, high-quality proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats, drawing inspiration from the Slow Oxidizer Diet for optimal guidance. Prioritise regular physical activity and limit alcohol consumption to 4 drinks per week to safeguard liver health. The Australian government NHMRC guidelines recommend to have less than ten standard drinks per week, and a maximum of four drinks at one time, however I feel that is far too much. The less you drink, the less risk for liver disease. Steer clear of drugs, including medications, whenever possible, and kick the smoking habit to further support your liver’s well-being. Maintain a healthy weight, reduce exposure to toxins by choosing organic foods and eco-friendly cleaning products, and practice safe habits like handwashing and safe sex to shield your liver from harm and promote overall wellness. Embark on a full Nutritional Balancing program to detoxify and REALLY optimise your liver health.

Avoid these foods:

• Mouldy foods (peanuts, soybeans, cereals, corn are all susceptible to mould and produce the highly toxic aflatoxin which damages your liver).
• Never eat foods that are spoiling
• Fried fatty foods
• Fast foods which contain many poor quality fats and refined salt and artificial chemicals
• White bread, rice and pasta
• Packaged snack food which contains high amounts of sugar,  poor quality refined table salt and detrimental fats
• Pickles contain high levels of nitrites, refined poor quality salt, additives, bacteria and even fungus
• Artificial sweeteners and sugars
• Blackened meat on BBQ
• Excessive red meat
• Refined table salt
• Fresh bamboo shoots
• Alcohol

Nutrient-Rich Foods for Liver Health and Detoxification

Including the following foods and beverages in your diet will reap amazing benefits for your livers health, and therefore your overall health.

– Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, kale, and bok choy provide protection against Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and cancer.

– Green tea contains catechins, antioxidants that safeguard against liver-related cancers.

– Hydration with water supports overall liver function.

– Almonds, spinach, blueberries, and olives offer various benefits such as liver health promotion and protection against liver diseases.

– Herbs and spices like oregano, sage, rosemary, cinnamon, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric provide polyphenol advantages for liver health.

– Omega-3 fatty acids in sardines reduce liver fat and benefit overall cholesterol levels.

– Sunflower seeds, rich in vitamin E, are beneficial for liver health.

– Garlic, coffee, curcumin from spices, olive oil, and nutrient-packed foods like sweet potatoes are all beneficial for detoxifying the liver and supporting its function.

A word of caution: Many over-the-counter supplements can hurt your liver if you don’t need them, have too much, or are toxic to the liver. Always consult a qualified naturopath for supplement recommendations.

Contact Sari today to receive a comprehensive evaluation of your health and a personalized treatment plan designed to enhance your liver’s detoxification capabilities, allowing you to achieve optimal health and reach your full potential in all aspects of life. Take the first step towards a Nutritional Balancing program and a healthier you by scheduling your assessment with Sari now.

Detoxify methods for optimal wellness

– Utilising powerful coffee enemas for liver detoxification can effectively reduce fatigue, mitigate detoxification symptoms, and aid in relieving constipation. Learn how to do coffee enemas safely with Sari guiding you along (Everyone LOVES doing them once they feel the benefits… seriously).

– Beneficial herbs for liver health include milk thistle, known for its protective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, and dandelion root, which enhances gall bladder and liver function. Sari may prescribe these liquid herbs for you. Incorporate dandelion root tea into your daily routine.

– Curcumin from turmeric supports bile production, aids in liver detoxification, and restores liver function. Use turmeric generously in your cooking can be beneficial for liver health.

–Castor oil packs are an effective way to help detoxify your liver and help your body remove wastes.

-Near Infrared sauna or heat lamps are another powerful way to detoxify your liver

Conclusion

The liver is truly remarkable, however neglecting it can lead to disease and even death. Making the care of your liver a top priority in your life is crucial.

Discover effective diet and lifestyle strategies with the Fundamentals Challenge 12-week online course to transform your health and well-being. Take the first step towards improving your liver health and overall vitality by exploring more about the course and its potential benefits today.