Liver Anatomy News

What Is Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease?

2012-01-19T08:37:00.001-08:00

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or NAFLD requires the accumulation of fat in liver cells. If the patient with this illness does not consume excessive amounts of alcohol, the cause of the disease is nonalcoholic. In general, you can have some stage of NAFLD if the amount of fat in your liver cells is additional than five to 10 percent of your liver's total weight.

If there is no liver inflammation (hepatitis) or liver scarring (fibrosis), fat accumulation in your liver is not considered serious. Still, if fat continues to accumulate in your liver for several years, it can lead to significant wellness conditions such as hepatitis, fibrosis or perhaps to the irreversible liver scarring condition recognized as cirrhosis.

Stages of NAFLD

Fatty Liver or steatosis is the initial and simplest stage of NAFLD. It involves the accumulation of triglyceride fat in your liver cells devoid of any inflammation or scarring. Even although it is not a standard liver condition, it is not regarded as severe as extended as it does not create into liver inflammation or damage.

A even more severe stage of NAFLD can develop into nonalcoholic steatohepatitis or NASH in a fraction of patients with fatty liver. NASH is the mixture of liver fat accumulation and liver inflammation. If it is not treated, NASH more than time can cause serious liver scarring.

If the initial stages of liver scarring go untreated, it can lead to the last and most serious stage of NAFLD. It is referred to as cirrhosis of the liver. It is irreversible liver scarring. The liver is not able to function correctly, and can create into liver failure, liver cancer and liver related death, if the scarring is extensive.

What causes NAFLD and NASH?

The precise result in for this disease is nonetheless unknown. However, a single standard element amongst NAFLD and NASH patients is insulin resistance.

Other risk factors for NAFLD are obesity, diet program and a family history of NAFLD.

One more report by the Linus Pauling Institute states that when choline intake is inadequate, fat accumulates in the liver and develops into fatty liver. When choline supply in the eating plan returns to standard, liver function also returns to typical. Choline is considered an vital nutrient, and is related to the vitamin B group. Choline is utilised by our body in the transport and metabolism of fats.

Food sources of choline comprise of beef liver, wheat germ, egg yolks, beef, broccoli, brewer's yeast and lecithin. You can get choline supplements as choline chloride and choline bitartrate, but several think about soy lecithin to be way more absorbable by the body.

Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver patients may possibly not notice any symptoms at all in the early stages of the disease. A great number of years may pass before patients notice any symptoms.

On the other hand, if you get common physical examines, your medical doctor ought to notice the signs of NAFLD before it reaches the NASH or cirrhosis stages. For patients who do notice symptoms of this illness, they could possibly knowledge a dull ache just beneath their ribcage on their correct side. It is dull and not an intense discomfort as when you have a gallbladder attack. Other symptoms that patients can have are:

Nausea

Weight loss

Fatigue

And an enlarged liver.

Therapy for Fatty Liver Disease

Some study has shown that a adjust in exercise routine and diet program can reverse this illness and restore liver function.

Losing weight slowly by means of an improve in physical activity and a change in your diet regime is crucial in reversing this illness.. Gradual weight loss is particularly essential. You can make your fatty liver condition worse with the addition of liver inflammation, if you lose your weight too quickly. It is suggested that you target your weight loss to 1 or 2 pounds every single week, and no far more than that.

To increase your liver health, you really should:

Never ever abuse alcohol

Do not abuse the use of medicines or drugs

Do not eat foods high in saturated fats

Do not eat food with added sugar

Stay away from hugely processed foods like white or bleached flour, white bread or even though rice

Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables

Exercise routinely

Do not smoke and avoid environmental toxins

Make confident that your diet plan consists of adequate amounts of choline

And eat whole grain breads and brown rice in moderation.

By living a life style that promote liver well being, you not only enhance your odds of reversing and avoiding nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, you also permit your liver to execute its functions, such as:

Breaking down nutrients

Manufacture proteins and cholesterol

Shop glucose, vitamin B12, fats, copper and iron

Form and excrete bile

Get rid of body waste items, excess cholesterol and bilirubin

And detoxify damaging drugs, alcohol and environmental toxins.

Liver Detox

2012-01-11T09:30:00.001-08:00

The human liver is an imperative organ that is part of the approach of detoxification our bodies do on its own. The liver assists get rid of toxins that come from the foods we eat and assists cleanse the human method overall. The liver produces bile from cholesterol and salts. When the technique is operating properly, it cleans any accumulated waste and toxins that have built up in the blood and assists get rid of them. When it is not working correctly, the toxins are accumulated and begin to harm other parts of the body.

In order to function correctly the liver needs water and glucose. However, it is prudent to note that the liver would benefit hugely from some assistance in a complete detoxification as a common portion of your health regimen. A eating plan rich in water, fruits, vegetables, nutrient supplements and herbs can be valuable. There are numerous thoughts on what works greatest to detoxify the liver. The 1st and absolute very important step is to discuss with your doctor the effects of any detoxify procedure and the reactions it could have with any medications that you presently are taking. If the physician gives the thumbs up, here are a number of diverse guidelines and suggestions that a great number of have been thought to perform nicely in assisting the liver in a full detoxification.

* Ozone therapy carried out by a professional will not only stimulate the release of hepatic bile but will promote more than all wellness.

* Chelation therapy completed by a skilled can detoxify mercury and lead from the liver.

* Liver flushes can involve drinking a combination of juices and oils which will include a combination of specifically selected herbs and enzymes for you. Each holistic therapist will have their own formula based on the exam they will give you.

* Nicely recognized hers like milk thistle, burdock, and dandelion are usually used and recommended by holistic practitioners.

* Garlic has been utilised for thousands of years as a blood cleanser that natural antibiotics identified in garlic lower blood fat and thin the blood therefore lowering the blood pressure. The preferred strategy for working with garlic is a clove of raw garlic eaten everyday.

* Coriander (Cilantro) is thought to accelerate the excretion of mercury, lead, and aluminum from the body. It can be utilised in location of basil or make a basic cilantro pesto.

* Echinacea is a identified lymphatic cleanser

* Dandelion root made use of in a tonic form acts as a diuretic and filters the toxins out

* Cayenne pepper purifies the blood and increases fluid elimination.

* Ginger root can stimulate the blood circulation.

* Liquorices root is a potent detoxifier that assists balance biochemical function and also is a known mild laxative.

* Parsley leaf is a diuretic for the kidneys

* Red clover blossoms will cleanse the blood.

* Fresh vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and onions are good for assisting any detoxify procedure. Also artichokes, beet root, and any red or green vegetables in general are fine assistors.

* All fresh fruit is fantastic for any type of detoxify approach.

These are only a couple of of the formulas that can be made use of to assist detoxify the liver. To create any of the tonics the ideal suggestion is to make contact with a holistic well being provider.

The Liver Cleansing Detox Can Stop You Feeling Sluggish

2011-11-06T10:39:00.001-08:00

The liver is your body's major organ and it is one of the most busy bodies tirelessly performs a number of activities that helps to keep your body without a variety of nasty toxins.

Various things on a daily basis can cause the liver to work even more than normal, it will include drinking alcohol, eating sweet or rich foods or taking regular medication. Today the company regularly participates in at least 2 of 3 of these activities.

constantly putting these extra pressure on our liver, we probably cause serious, long-term.Detox liver cleansing can help take the pressure of your busy, busy bodies.

A lot of different functions, and that includes the following:

• It produces substances that help break down fats in the body
• It converts glucose into glycogen
• These filters are nasty and harmful substances from the blood (eg, alcohol, drugs)
• And many more functions

When the liver starts to suffer, it will send pain signals you obavijestiti.Jetre only slows down the performance of many tasks. A lot of people will realize that the body starts to feel tired and sluggish.

This is when the liver cleansing can be beneficial. Products that are homeopathic such as the liver is actively used by millions of people to help your liver back to normal.

Active liver is extremely easy to use, all you have to do is spray under your tongue twice dnevno.100% natural ingredients in Active liver can then be absorbed by your blood vessels under the tongue, which will help clean the liver detox process .

In this manner, the body will detox your liver and helps your body will get rid of all harmful toxins and poisons that slow down your liver.

We are only as healthy as our liver. As long as we make sure we protect our liver, then this is an excellent authority will help make sure that our bodies are kept in full working order. So if you start to feel sluggish and tired, that's when you should start thinking about what detox liver cleanser. Active liver can have your body back in proper working order in no time at all.

As it is incredibly effective product, the liver is also very active sometimes offer additional products for free when you order. It could be detox liver cleansing are looking for, and it is affordable and effective, you can not ask for much more so do not delay or you might just miss it.

Detoxing The Liver

2011-09-19T11:11:00.001-07:00

The most important organ in our body is the liver. It purifies the chemicals that pass through our bodies, such as toxins, and are excreted through the feces, sweat and for daily removal of toxins from our bodies, and sometimes it is difficult to track the amount of toxins being introduced.

When the liver can not keep up, toxins accumulate in the body causing health problems and diseases. This is why liver detox is important to help prevent any possible damage and helps take care of our liver.

Liver detox can be done by 3 days, 7 days or 21 days of the program. We will focus on seven days of liver detox. It focuses on whole grains and raw fruits and vegetables with water. You should eliminate the use of alcohol, drugs, caffeine, junk food, sugar, processed foods, and fats. It should be started one week before the detox and maintain through detox.

On days 1-3, liquid diet should be started. 10-12 glasses of water with lime juice should be consumed every day. While the toxins are flushed out, May you feel weak or tired.

On days 4-6, whole grains, fruits and vegetables can be used. Carrots, apples, celery and oranges can be prepared as a juice. Liquids and continues, even if you use solid food. You can have herbal tea 2-3 times a day if you want to replace. Chopped and boiled vegetables as their meals. You drink soup every three hours and can be made from carrots, spinach, celery, broccoli, or any other green vegetable.

On day 7, the liquid continued with fruits and vegetables. They can prepare steamed or served raw.

As long as the concept of following, you can change the vegetables and diet can be resumed after the seventh day, but still restricts the use of alcohol. This restriction can be lifted after a week in the diet. Ask your doctor before starting a detox and stop immediately if you experience vomiting, pain, or nausea.

How To Make Your Liver Burn Fat For You Automatically ?

2008-08-20T12:53:00.001-07:00

The main function of liver is to convert food to energy, and produce chemicals and enzymes necessary to burn fat. Liver stores iron reserves and vitamins and minerals and makes bile to digest food. It also manufactures cholesterol. It filters and detoxifies – alcohol, wine, harmful drugs, stores energy or glucose and removes the poisons and toxins that you breathe.

Your Liver is the key organ responsible for breakdown of fat. It is a common fact that large percentages of overweight people have malfunctioning livers. The liver produces bile, a byproduct of blood filtering. Bile leaves the liver and is stored in the gall bladder. When fat is eaten, the gall bladder releases bile to emulsify the fat into tiny droplets.

Without bile, fat digestion is impossible. Since the liver is the key organ for fat digestion you must make an effort to keep the liver in very good health if you want to loose fat. You can take care of your liver in the following manner.

Avoid unnecessary drugs. Avoid alcohol. Dont mix alcohol with drugs and medication. Please be careful when using aerosol cleaners, wear a mask if possible. Increase intake of high-fibre foods such as fresh fruits & vegetables, whole grains, breads, rice and cereals. Avoid rich desserts, snacks and drinks. Avoid steroids as it causes fatty liver. If you need a natural solution for rejuvenating your lever, I recommend Aloe Vera to you. Aloe Vera has been highly recommended by Ayurveda for rejuvenating the cells of the lever. You must be aware that the extract of Aloe Vera has been used world wide by the cosmetic industry for rejuvenating skin cells. Ayurveda practitioners have utilized the same cell rejuvenating property of aloeVera in India since ages.

Aloe Vera is a plant belonging to lily family that grows upto 2-3 feet tall. This plant grows mainly in hot climates. The gel in the leaves is used for internal consumption. Aloe Vera gel supplies the nutrients required by the internal organs of the body and speeds up the healing process. It contains the following nutrients :

Vitamins B12, C, E And Beta carotene.

Enzymes, the life force of any living being, helps to digest the foood.

Contains 20 essential Amino acids required by the body as the essential building blocks for protein.

Contains minerals like iron, manganese, potassium, calcium, chromium, copper, zinc, magnesium.

Contains powerfull anti-inflammatory agents known as plant sterols.

Contains Lignin, this is a woody substance which allows Aloe to penetrate the skin.

Salycylic acid in Aloe acts as an anti-inflammatory which helps to break down the dead tissues.

Contains natural pain killers known as Anthraquinones.

Saponins are the soapy substances which have anti microbial action.

Aloe Vera strengthens the bodies immunity and gets rid of all the sludge and waste material from areas of the bowel and liver. It supplies the liver with all the required nutrients and regulates its functioning and repairs it from inside.

Once the liver starts its normal function, fat dissolves automatically.

You can get more cutting edge fat burning secrets in my Free 5day email ecourse by subscribing to my newsletter at: www.eweightlosstips.com

by: Rajesh Shetty

Hepatitis C Virus Lives In Your Liver

2008-08-20T12:52:00.002-07:00

(NC)-Your liver works 24 hours a day, performing over 500 vital functions for your body. Most of the blood that returns to your heart passes through the liver. Your body can't function without it.

The hepatitis C virus lives in your liver. It inflames liver cells, which, over time, affects the way your liver functions. The effect of the hepatitis C virus varies from person to person. There is no way to predict how your body will react to it. There are, however, some things that are known:

You can live with hepatitis C for many years without experiencing any major symptoms, or you might simply feel tired. Symptoms can come and go over time. Their presence or absence does not tell you the degree to which liver damage may or may not be occurring.

Chronic, long-term inflammation of the liver can cause liver cell damage and result in fibrosis (liver scarring), or even cirrhosis. This damage can occur in as little as five years, or as long as 30 years.

About 20% of chronic hepatitis patients develop cirrhosis within 10 to 20 years.

Use of recreational drugs or alcohol can speed up inflammation and the development of fibrosis or cirrhosis.

There is an increased risk of liver cancer in people with cirrhosis.

The good news is that current drug treatments can be very effective for people with hepatitis C. Combined with proper nutrition, plenty of rest, and avoidance of recreational drugs and alcohol, these treatments help many who have the virus lead relatively healthy lives.

If you think you may be at risk of getting hepatitis C, see your doctor. The virus can be detected by a simple blood test. For more information on how to keep your liver happy and healthy, visit Health Canada's Web site at www.healthcanada.ca/hepc .

by: News Canada

A Brief Introduction to Dog Liver Disease

2008-08-20T12:52:00.001-07:00

The canine liver is a vitally important organ, one which is involved in practically all biochemical processes and physiological pathways. As a result, when one of the many possible forms of dog liver disease arises, the consequences can be numerous and severe.

Anatomy of the Liver

Located in the forward part of the abdomen near the diaphragm, the liver is the largest organ in the canine body and consists of six lobes divided into three regions. This organ receives nutrients through the portal vein and through the hepatic artery. Approximately one third of the blood flowing into the liver travels through the hepatic artery while approximately two thirds travels through the portal vein. While the nutrients that travel through the portal vein originate in the digestive tract, the blood entering the liver by the hepatic artery comes from the heart.

Physiology of the Liver

As already alluded to, this complex organ plays a role in nearly all of the body's biochemical processes. However, some of the most significant functions of the liver include the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Another major function of this organ is that it serves as a detoxification system, breaking down and removing toxic substances from the dog's body. An interesting characteristic of the liver is its amazing reserve capability, requiring only a small portion of liver cells to work at one time. However, the downside of this characteristic is that liver disease may not be detectable until it reaches an advanced stage. At the same time, liver cells do have the ability to regenerate, allowing for full recovery from dog liver disease in some cases.

Causes

There are numerous different potential causes of dog liver disease, including traumatic events and medical conditions. Examples of trauma that can give rise to liver disease include being hit by a car, heatstroke, or the ingestion of toxins such as pesticides and certain pharmaceuticals. Other potential causes of canine liver disease include various infections and anatomical or physiological defects of the liver that are present at birth. When it comes to other medical conditions that can give rise to dog liver disease, the possibilities are quite numerous. For instance, anemia and heartworms can lead to damaged liver cells, as can heart disease, cancer, and pancreatitis.

Symptoms

Due to the incredible reserve capability of the canine liver, disease of this organ may not become apparent until the problem has advanced quite significantly. Moreover, symptoms and warning signs of dog liver disease tend to be quite subtle and variable in the beginning. However, as the problem progresses, symptoms will become more and more apparent. One of the most classic symptoms of dog liver disease is jaundice, which involves the yellowing of the dog's skin, gums, and the whites of its eyes. Other classic warning signs include loss of appetite, weight loss, excessive thirst (polydipsia), and increased frequency of urination (polyuria). Lethargy, depression, and a swollen belly are also typical symptoms of canine liver disease. In some cases, diarrhea and vomiting will also occur. In advanced stages of the disease, the afflicted canine may experience confusion, weakness, and even convulsions.

Diagnosis

Since the liver is involved in the functions and biochemical processes of so many other organs, the symptoms of dog liver disease are often indistinguishable from those of other diseases. In addition, problems with the liver could actually be a secondary effect of a disease originating in another part of the body. As a result, thorough procedures are necessary in order to reach a firm and confident diagnosis of dog liver disease and to identify its cause. Typically, diagnostic processes that will be carried out in a case of suspected liver disease include a physical examination and blood tests. In addition, x-rays and ultrasound may also be used in order to allow the veterinarian to examine the liver for physical abnormalities. In some circumstances, exploratory surgery and a biopsy may be necessary as well.

Traditional Treatment

When a dog is suffering from canine liver disease, the necessary treatment will depend upon the cause of the disease. For example, when a bacterial infection has given rise to the disease, antibiotics will likely need to be administered. When an underlying medical problem such as anemia or cancer is at the root of the liver disease, the underlying condition will need to be dealt with. As a result, required treatment methods can vary quite significantly between cases of dog liver disease.

Holistic and Natural Treatment

In addition to the traditional treatment methods required in a particular case of canine liver disease, certain holistic health management strategies can also be very helpful with regards to treatment. Dietary adjustments and natural supplements can optimize nutrition while reducing the stress placed upon the liver. Providing certain nutrients through specific foods, natural supplements, or homoeopathic remedies can also help protect the liver and promote its health. For example, Vitamin E stimulates the production of new liver cells and prevents the build up of toxins. Therefore, in appropriate cases, natural supplements and other holistic health strategies can provide a very beneficial contribution to the treatment process for a dog suffering from canine liver disease.

by Tiffany Doggett

Common Characteristics of Liver Disease

2008-08-20T12:51:00.000-07:00

When diagnosing liver disease, the physician looks at the patient's symptoms and conducts a physical examination. In addition, the physician may request a liver biopsy, liver function tests, an ultrasound, a computed tomography (CT) scan, and/or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.

Some common liver disease symptoms include the following, each of which are described briefly below :

jaundice
cholestasis
liver enlargement
portal hypertension
esophageal varices
ascites
liver encephalopathy
liver failure

What is jaundice?

Jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin and whites of the eyes due to abnormally high levels of bilirubin (bile pigment) in the bloodstream. Urine is usually dark because of the bilirubin excreted through the kidneys. High levels of bilirubin may be attributed to inflammation, or other abnormalities of the liver cells, or blockage of the bile ducts. Sometimes, jaundice is caused by the breakdown of a large number of red blood cells, which can occur in newborns. Jaundice is usually the first sign, and sometimes the only sign, of liver disease.

What is cholestasis?

Cholestasisis reduced or stopped bile flow. "Chole" refers to bile and "stasis" means "keeping at the same level." Bile flow may be blocked inside the liver, outside the liver, or in both places. Symptoms may include :

jaundice - yellowing of the skin and eyes.
dark urine
pale stool
bone loss
easy bleeding
itching
small, spider-like blood vessels visible in the skin
enlarged spleen
ascites - fluid build-up in the abdominal cavity.
chills
pain from the biliary tract or pancreas
enlarged gallbladder

Some causes of cholestasis include the following :

hepatitis
alcoholic liver disease
primary biliary cirrhosis
drug effects
hormonal changes during pregnancy
a stone in the bile duct
bile duct narrowing
bile duct cancer
pancreatic cancer
inflammation of the pancreas

What is liver enlargement?

Liver enlargement is usually an indicator of liver disease, although there are usually no symptoms associated with a slightly enlarged liver (hepatomegaly). Symptoms of a grossly enlarged liver include abdominal discomfort or "feeling full."

What is portal hypertension?

Portal hypertension is abnormally high blood pressure in the portal vein, which supplies the liver with blood from the intestine. Portal hypertension may be due to increased blood pressure in the portal blood vessels, or resistance to blood flow through the liver. Portal hypertension can lead to the growth of new blood vessels (called collaterals) that connect blood flow from the intestine to the general circulation, bypassing the liver. When this occurs, substances that are normally removed by the liver pass into the general circulation. Symptoms of portal hypertension may include :

a. ascites - fluid build-up in the abdominal cavity.

b. bleeding of the varicose veins at the lower end of the esophagus and in the stomach lining

What are esophageal varices?

Esophageal varices are dilated blood vessels within the walls of the lower part of the esophagus that are prone to bleeding. They can appear in individuals with severe liver disease. A diseased liver can cause portal hypertension, which is high blood pressure in the portal vein. The portal vein supplies the liver with blood. Over time, this pressure causes blood vessels to grow, called collateral blood vessels. These vessels act as channels to divert the blood under high pressure. The extra pressure in these vessels causes them to dilate and become tortuous. These vessels can eventually reach the lower esophagus and stomach and are prone to rupture. The rupture can lead to significant blood loss from vomiting or from passing through the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms of esophageal varices may include :

a. painless vomiting of blood

b. anemia - low red blood cell count.

What is ascites?

Ascites is fluid build-up in the abdominal cavity caused by fluid leaks from the surface of the liver and intestine. Ascites due to liver disease usually accompanies other liver disease characteristics such as portal hypertension. Symptoms of ascites may include a distended abdominal cavity, which causes discomfort and shortness of breath. Causes of ascites may include the following :

a. liver cirrhosis (especially cirrhosis caused by alcoholism)

b. alcoholic hepatitis

c. chronic hepatitis

d. obstruction of the hepatic vein

Ascites can also be caused by non-liver disorders.

What is liver encephalopathy?

Liver encephalopathy is the deterioration of brain function due to toxic substances building up in the blood, which are normally removed by the liver. Liver encephalopathy is also called portal-systemic encephalopathy, hepatic encephalopathy, or hepatic coma. Symptoms may include :

a. impaired consciousness

b. changes in logical thinking, personality, and behavior

c. mood changes

d. impaired judgment

e. drowsiness

f. confusion

g. sluggish speech and movement

h. disorientation

i. loss of consciousness

j. coma

What is liver failure?

Liver failure is severe deterioration of liver function. Liver failure occurs when a large portion of the liver is damaged due to any type of liver disorder. Symptoms may include :

a. jaundice - yellowing of the skin and eyes.

b. tendency to bruise or bleed easily

c. ascites - fluid build-up in the abdominal cavity.

d. impaired brain function

e. general failing health

f. fatigue

g. weakness

h. nausea

i. loss of appetite

Liver, Biliary and Pancreatic Disorders

2008-08-20T12:50:00.000-07:00

A series of special blood tests can often determine whether or not the liver is functioning properly. These tests can also distinguish between acute and chronic liver disorders and between hepatitis and cholestasis.

The most commonly performed blood tests include the following :

1. Serum bilirubin test

This test measures the levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is produced by the liver and is excreted in the bile. Elevated levels of bilirubin may indicate an obstruction of bile flow or a problem in the processing of bile by the liver.

2. Serum albumin test

This test is used to measure the level of albumin (a protein in the blood) and aides in the diagnosis of liver disease.

3. Serum alkaline phosphatase test

This test is used to measure the level of alkaline phosphatase (an enzyme) in the blood. Alkaline phosphatase is found in many tissues, with the highest concentrations in the liver, biliary tract, and bone. This test may be performed to assess liver functioning and to detect liver lesions that may cause biliary obstruction, such as tumors or abscesses.

4. Serum aminotransferases (transaminases)

This enzyme is released from damaged liver cells.

5. Prothrombin time (PTT) test

The prothrombin time test measures how long it takes for blood to clot. Blood clotting requires vitamin K and a protein that is made by the liver. Prolonged clotting may indicate liver disease or other deficiencies in specific clotting factors.

6. Alanine transaminase (ALT) test

This test measures the level of alanine aminotransferase (an enzyme found predominantly in the liver) that is released into the bloodstream after acute liver cell damage. This test may be performed to assess liver function, and/or to evaluate treatment of acute liver disease, such as hepatitis.

7. Aspartate transaminase (AST) test

This test measures the level of aspartate transaminase (an enzyme that is found in the liver, kidneys, pancreas, heart, skeletal muscle, and red blood cells) that is released into the bloodstream after liver or heart problems.

8. Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase test

This test measures the level of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (an enzyme that is produced in the liver, pancreas, and biliary tract). This test is often performed to assess liver function, to provide information about liver diseases, and to detect alcohol ingestion.

9. Lactic dehydrogenase test

This test can detect tissue damage and aides in the diagnosis of liver disease. Lactic dehydrogenase is a type of protein (also called an isoenzyme) that is involved in the body's metabolic process.

10. 5'-nucleotidase test

This test measures the levels of 5'- nucleotidase (an enzyme specific to the liver). The 5'- nucleotidase level is elevated in persons with liver diseases, especially those diseases associated with cholestasis (disruption in the formation of, or obstruction in the flow of bile).

11. Alpha-fetoprotein test

Alpha-fetoprotein (a specific blood protein) is produced by fetal tissue and by tumors. This test may be performed to monitor the effectiveness of therapy in certain cancers, such as hepatomas.

12. Mitochondrial antibodies test

The presence of these antibodies can indicate primary biliary cirrhosis, chronic active hepatitis, and certain other autoimmune disorders.

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2008-07-04T12:46:00.000-07:00

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Cleansing Liver Herbal Teas

2008-06-21T11:09:00.003-07:00

When spring comes it is time for a liver cleanse. This is a good time to rejuvenate the liver for the coming year of work. One good way to cleanse the liver is to use herbal teas. They are easy to use and they provide a powerful punch to reawaken the liver.

Here is a herbal formulation for the liver provided by Brigitte Mars (herbalist in Colorado) called "Puri-Tea" which consist of :

Peppermint, red clover, fennel, licorice
Cleavers, dandelion, oregon grape root, burdock root
Butternut bark, chickweed, parsley root, nettles.

Another liver herbal tea is :

Fennel Seed (1 part), Fenugreek (1 part)
Flax Seed (1 part), Licorice Root (1/4 part)
Burdock (1/4 part), Peppermint (1 part).

Here's another herbal combination that is good for detoxifying and cleansing the liver :

Yellow Dock root, Dandelion root, Licorice root
Red sage, Sarsaparilla, Hyssop
Pau de Arco, Milk Thistle Seed, Parsley leaf.

Here's something else you can do for you liver. Buy an extract of Milk Thistle Seed. Then when you make the liver tea's list here, add 2-3 full droppers of the Milk Thistle Seed extract to the tea.

Here are the effects of some of the herbs listed above :

Fennel seed - white cell formation, acid/alkaline balancing
Peppermint - body cleanser and toner
Red clover - blood purifier
Licorice - adrenal stimulation
Cleavers - anti-infection
Dandelion - cleansing and strengthening
Oregon grape root - cleansing, building
Burdock root - purifying
Nettles - rich in minerals
Chickweed -
Fenugreek - helps to eliminate toxins and mucus
Yellow dock root - cleansing, white cell formation
Pau de arco - cleansing, white cell formation
Milk thistle seed - cleansing, building

You can make these teas yourself or look for a ready made one at a health food store. What I do is buy a 1/2 or 1 oz of each herb. Then I mix one full tablespoon of each herb into a mason jar. Shake it up and its ready to go.

Preparing the tea

Boil 1 1/4 cup of distilled water in a glass container. Add 1 heaping tablespoon of herbal mixture. Let tea sit for 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink when it cools down a little.

Drink one cup of tea before breakfast and one before dinner for about 1-2 months.

by: Rudy Silva

Coffee, Tea or Liver Problems; Study Finds That Coffee Reduces The Risk Of Chronic Liver Problems

2008-06-21T11:09:00.001-07:00

The link between the diet and the liver has long been studied by the American Liver Foundation and other organizations. Research in this area is important because it could help reduce the suffering and economic burden posed by liver diseases. New research suggests that caffeine, found in both coffee and tea, is a practical way to reduce the risks of developing chronic liver problems. The liver, the largest organ in the body, plays a vital role of performing many complex functions which are essential for life. Since 85-90% of the blood that leaves the stomach and intestines is filtered through the liver, the liver is responsible for converting the food we eat into stored energy, and chemicals necessary for life and growth.

Additionally, the liver acts as the filter to remove alcohol and toxic substances from the blood by converting them to substances that can be excreted from the body. The liver processes drugs and medications absorbed from the digestive system which enables the use of the medication by our bodies. The liver also manufactures and exports important body chemicals used by the body, such as bile, which is a substance used by our bodies to digest fats in the small intestine. (Source: The American Liver Foundation) According to a study conducted by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases and Social & Scientific Systems, Inc., coffee and tea may reduce the risk of serious liver damage in people who are typically exposed to such risk.

People who regularly drink too much alcohol, are overweight, or have too much iron in the blood may benefit the most from the findings of this study of nearly 10,000 coffee-drinkers. The records of the participants in a government survey were also analyzed over a 19-year period. The study showed that those whose diets included drinking more than two cups of coffee or tea daily developed chronic liver disease at only half the rate of those who drank less than one cup daily. While the findings of the study potentially provide evidence that certain people can decrease that risk by drinking coffee it may be too early to conclude that this risk-reduction measure is a cure for all. Dr. Constance Ruhl helped lead the study, but cautions that “it is too soon to encourage patients to increase their coffee and tea intake.” The study found that coffee provided no protection to people at risk of liver disease from other causes. For example, Viral Hepatitis is a form of liver disease that affects millions of people from different backgrounds and African Americans are more likely to develop this disease due to certain lifestyle factors. The study offered no evidence that drinking coffee would provide any benefit in such situations and, therefore, does not suggest that African Americans rush to the nearest Starbuck

by: Askme Blax

Liver Detox Diet

2008-06-21T11:08:00.001-07:00

The liver is an amazing organ. Tasked with removing toxins from the body, the liver acts as a natural filter. However, with today’s poor, overly processed dietary habits and overindulgence, it is easy for your liver to become overwhelmed and “clogged”.

The liver filters the toxins from the bloodstream, chemically changing them into harmless substances that can be excreted easily. As one of the largest and most important organs in the body, the liver’s efficiency is vital to overall health.

If the liver is unable to remove all of the harmful substances from the bloodstream, the toxins build up in our tissues and cause numerous health problems, including elevated cholesterol (and all of the problems related to high cholesterol), digestive problems including constipation, nausea and irritable bowel syndrome, allergies, depression and disruption of sugar levels within the bloodstream. Chronic fatigue and pain are often signs of a liver that is not functioning efficiently.

There are many herbal supplement plans on the market to help with liver detoxification. Many of them have great testimonials and are not too uncomfortable to use. Try to avoid the harsh colon cleansers and complete fasts, as these tend to “shock” your system and release a large volume of harmful substances into the bloodstream at one time.

You should always start with a simple less stressful plan for liver detox. Make a lifestyle change that will allow your liver to function more efficiently. First, have a liver detox diet that eliminate toxins from your diet and flush your system with filtered water. Eat organic foods and wash your fruits and vegetables carefully. Substitute organic, lean meats and fruits and vegetables in their natural form for processed foods. Switch to “liver healthy” foods that will support liver function: beats, artichokes, broccoli and cabbage, seaweed and radishes. Add a good multi-vitamin and support liver function with milk thistle, shown to regenerate liver cells.

Liver detoxification may be the answer if you are feeling achy and tired. Support your body’s natural filter and eat a liver healthy detox diet. You may be surprised at how much better you’ll feel.

by: Sandra Kim Leong

Natural Liver Support Cleansing Products

2008-06-21T11:07:00.000-07:00

The liver is involved in thousands of biochemical mechanisms making it second only to the brain in importance and complexity. Natural health practitioners are also acutely aware of the detrimental effects on the liver of modern living, with its chemicals, excessive fat intake, pesticides, hormones, and stress. This suggests that we as a culture are in need of liver support. You should consider liver support supplementation if you :

• Have a history of a Fatty Liver

• Consume Alcohol

• Consume Tobacco Products

• Have been taking Medications/Drugs

• Are exposed to Environmental Toxins or Chemicals or Second Hand Smoke

• Have a history of Liver or Gall Bladder Problems

Dandelion

Dandelion root enhances bile flow, thus improving conditions such as liver congestion, bile duct inflammation, hepatitis, gallstones, and jaundice. Dandelion increases bile flow by affecting the liver directly to cause an increase in bile production and flow to the gallbladder, and exerting a direct effect on the gallbladder by causing a contraction and release of stored bile. Dandelion's hepatic tonic effect may be attributable to the high choline content.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) has been used since Greco-Roman times as an herbal remedy for a variety of ailments, particularly liver problems. Several scientific studies suggest that active substances in milk thistle (particularly silymarin) protect the liver from damage caused by viruses, toxins, alcohol, and certain drugs such as acetaminophen (a common over the counter medication used for headaches and pain; acetaminophen, also called paracetamol, can cause liver damage if taken in large quantities or by people who drink alcohol regularly.)

Many professional herbalists recommend milk thistle extract for the prevention and/or treatment of various liver disorders including viral hepatitis, fatty liver associated with long term alcohol use, and liver damage from drugs and industrial toxins such as carbon tetrachloride.

by: Chester Ku-Lea

Exercising the Liver : An Excellent Guide to Health & Fitness

2008-06-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

It is a tough job for the liver to keep the cleaning function of the body always in smooth operation especially with the present-day unhealthy eating and drinking habits of people. And, like any other machines, it encounters malfunctioning that needs immediate troubleshooting. But unlike other machines that need only oiling to run again, the liver has to be looked upon very carefully or the entire system will suffer if it does not function very well.

In youth, you might not notice the effects of malfunctioning liver. But when you reach middle and advanced age, you will discover that a lot of sicknesses are being caused by a malfunctioning liver. The symptoms of a damaged liver are: dull aching pain in the right side of the stomach area - often under the shoulder blade, terrible pain at the nape, rough tongue, unpleasant taste in the mouth in the morning and the appearance of yellowish color in the whites of the eyes. Other than those, a person with a troubled liver would also frequently feel loss of appetite, dizziness and drowsiness after meals.

With these indications of ailments, the person is often irritated and weak which could affect his entire outlook in life. And this could lead to fast deterioration of the body. Growing old would then become a burden.

But you can do something to prevent that misfortune from happening to you. Aging doesn’t have to bring about all sorts of diseases. It is not a reason that because you are getting old, you are expected to feel all kinds of sickness. There are times when you regret why you never heeded the advice to you before and why you never paid enough attention to your health when you were younger. Instead of dwelling on those regrets, why don’t you try doing something to alleviate that condition? No matter at what age you will decide to do so, it is never too late. Sanford Bennett, a phenomenal celebrity for bodily rejuvenation thru natural methods, has proven so.

In his campaign for total health rejuvenation, Sanford Bennett devised a program of exercise for the liver to keep it in a fine condition. The liver, being a gland, would respond well when exercised. And an exercise involving tension of the abdominal muscles will benefit the liver along with some massaging techniques. But of course, before doing the exercise, one must be familiar with the position and the structure of his own liver.

• First Exercise

There are three exercises Sanford Bennett described for the liver. Feel the location of your liver with the fingers of both hands as you lie on your back. Press the fingers upward past the ribs. The liver can be easily moved and tensed because the abdominal muscles are in relaxed state. Create pressing movements under and upwards. Do this twenty times and increasing daily until you reach 100 or until your condition permits.

This tensing exercise is comparable to the effect you get when you ride a horse. This is an exercise frequently prescribed by physicians when the liver is not in good condition.

• Second Exercise

Lie on your right side and place your left hand over the area of your liver. Position yourself with the head slightly inclined forward and with the knees bent. This will relax the abdominal muscles and place the liver forward. With your knuckle of the thumb or the pad of a finger, press well under the ribs and massage the liver.

• Third Exercise (Percussion)

Light thumping of the liver will also help in the healthy activity of the liver. Lie on your left side which inclines the liver forward and the muscles relaxed. With your right fist, strike lightly but rapidly on the area. Begin with twenty strikes and increase daily up to how many your condition permits.

When the liver is properly taken cared of, the whole body system is guaranteed to be in a good condition. And when you pay equal attention to all the parts of your body, there is no need to worry about your health failing. Take care of your body.

by: Ismael D. Tabije