The liver is responsible for many functions that are essential for health and this is why you should keep an eye open for any early signs of liver problems. The main abilities of the liver are: remove toxins out of the body, build protein, make bile to help fats digestion and produce of biochemicals for digestion. The most common cause for liver problem is alcohol, other causes are including:
- Malnutrition
- Exposure to harmful chemicals
- Inherited disorders of iron and copper metabolism
- Diabetics
- Reactions to certain medications
- Overuse of certain medications
Symptoms of liver damage
Abdominal pain :
Especially in the upper right part of the belly under the ribs, where the liver is located.
Itchy skin:
Due to bile salts that are deposited in the skin. The itchiness is persistent and can develop into a flaky rash. Liver disease can also cause other skin problems, including a generalized yellowing of the skin and mucus membranes (jaundice), reddened of the feet or hands, and changes in skin tone and color.
Nausea and vomiting:
Because of the interruption to the digestive system, you may suffer from heartburn, nausea and vomiting.
Weight loss:
In the early stages of liver disease, there might be appetite loss that can lead to a serious weight loss.
General fatigue:
You may feel very weak or tired. The physical feeling can also turn into mental disorientation or confusion.
Diarrhea, constipation or intestinal bleeding :
There are noticeable changes in bowel movement. You may have periods of constipation or diarrhea or change in the stool color or traces of blood in it.
3 Simple Liver Detox Recipes
1. Liver Boosting Beet Juice:
- 1 beet
- 1 carrot
- 1 lemon, peeled
- 1 handful parsley
Directions: Run all ingredients through a juicer and enjoy.
2. Deep Green Liver Detox:
- 1/2 cucumber
- 2 cups kale
- 1 lime, peeled
- 1 cup swiss chard
- 1/2 lemon, peeled
Directions: Run all ingredients through a juicer and enjoy.
3. Liver Detox Green Smoothie:
- 2 oranges, peeled
- 1/2 rib celery
- 1 lemon, peeled
- 1/2 cup dandelion greens (or other bitter green)
- 1/2 cup parsley
Directions: Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Enjoy!
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