Naturopathic Information - MICROgenics Liver Detox

The liver is the cleanser and detoxifier/filter of the bloodstream. Naturopathic thinking recognises that many people may not have a particular diagnosed liver affliction, but may experience a condition where liver function is below optimum functioning levels. The liver plays such an important role in detoxification and keeping the body healthy. Liver support could be beneficial if you have any of the following signs and symptoms:

• Sluggish digestion and flatulence
• Fat intolerance
• Nausea
• Chronic constipation
• Chemical, food and drug intolerances/sensitivities
• Fatigue/weakness
• Poor concentration
• Irritability
• Allergies

There are 2 important enzymatic phases to liver detoxification, phase I and phase II. Phase I involves enzymes called cytochrome P-450 which directly neutralise toxins, or convert toxins to intermediate forms that are then processed by phase II enzymes. These intermediate forms are often much more toxic than the original substance, so if the Phase II detoxification systems aren't working properly, these intermediates linger and cause damage. In Phase II detoxification the toxic intermediates created in phase I are conjugated so they can be eliminated from the body. If the liver cells are not functioning properly, Phase II detoxification slows down and increases the toxic load by allowing the buildup of toxic intermediates created in phase I. Scientific evidence has found that many people in western society have poor phase I detoxification, resulting with these toxic intermediates staying in the body and causing common signs and symptoms associated with poor liver function.

Liver Health and Detoxification

• Taking MICROgenics Liver Detox may help to clear up skin conditions, counteract the effects of alcohol and poor dietary choices, aid in digestion, and fat intolerances.
• Milk Thistle was empirically used as a remedy for almost 2000 years, and remains being used as a medicine for liver conditions. Milk Thistle is traditionally referred to as hepatic substance. Hepatics are remedies which reduce damage to the liver from stressors such as xenobiotics, environmental and industrial pollutants, alcohol, and excess fat consumption.
• Scientific evidence unveils a possible mechanism behind Milk Thistle effect on the liver. It is proposed that Milk Thistle may actually alter the membrane of a liver cell protecting the cell against toxic induced damage. In addition, it is also suggested that Milk Thistle may bind to the liver cell membrane receptor site, inhibiting the binding of toxins to these sites.
• Researchers have also added that Milk Thistle accelerates the regeneration of liver cells caused by liver damage. Although, Milk Thistle is most commonly investigated for its effects on the liver, it is commonly use to aid digestion
• Milk thistle contains flavanoids which have a powerful antioxidant activity
• Dandelion root is traditionally prescribed by Herbalists and Naturopaths for its ability to encourage the liver to secrete and produce bile assisting with a sluggish liver. Bile is a substance which breaks down fat and aids in digestion
• Vitamin C is involved in phase I and phase II detoxification processes and is a potent antioxidant
• Zinc is an important mineral used in phase I pathway and acts as an antioxidant in liver detoxification
• Burdock is classed by Herbalists as a depurative, a substance which purifies the blood, improves detoxification and aids in the elimination of metabolic waste products.
• Schisandra is traditionally used in Western herbal medicine as a substance that protects the liver, and improves the detoxifying capacity of the liver.
• Globe artichoke is prescribed by herbalists for conditions where liver function is impaired
• Taurine is a naturally occurring sulfur amino acid acting as an important conjugate substance for phase II detoxification
• It is common in Western society for phase II liver detoxification to be working inefficiently, causing the toxins accumulated from phase I to be recirculated resulting in toxic overload.
• This formula is designed to detoxify the liver aiding in the improvement of general well being
• To make the most of your liver detoxification it is essential to reduce or avoid as many toxins as possible, so that your body has a chance to clean and repair itself. Drink plenty of pure water and exercise regularly - aim for 30 to 40 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise three to four times per week. Eat clean healthy food such as fresh vegetables, lean meat, nuts and seeds, avoid junk food, soft drinks, coffee, alcohol, sugar, and wheat products. Avoid recreational drugs and try dry skin brushing, pamper yourself with spa treatments, and lymphatic massage.