by Sassafras

Created on: February 11, 2008

Your hard-working liver detoxes many dangerous substances in order to protect your health, so the least you can do is return the favor by detoxing it on a regular basis. It's the second largest organ in the body after the skin, and performs an amazing array of functions, including metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and proteins; manufacturing bile, a digestive enzyme that removes impurities and toxins from the blood; helping the blood clot when it needs to; and eliminating worn-out red blood cells.

The liver has a wonderful ability to regenerate itself to a limited extent after it has been injured or diseased, as happens in hepatitis, cirrhosis, alcohol and drug abuse and poisoning. There are many other toxins that put extreme pressure on the liver to perform. These include heavy metals, pharmaceutical hormones, over-the-counter and prescription medications, and synthetic food additives; and the pesticides, herbicides and synthetic fertilizers in conventionally grown plant-based foods, as well as the antibiotics, hormones and other toxins in factory-farmed animals. But don't despair. You can help your liver remain the efficient, indispensable organ that it has evolved to be through a nutritious diet and herbal supplementation.

Here are just a few of the symptoms that may indicate your liver is in need of detoxing:

Skin problems such as acne, blemishes, hives, bruises, wounds that don't heal
Dark circles under eyes; yellow in whites of eyes; red, swollen, teary eyes
Bad breath or body odor
Gas, bloating, nausea or acid reflux
Constipation or diarrhea
Hemorrhoids or varicose veins
Food or chemical allergies
Difficulty losing or gaining weight
Frequent colds
Muscle or joint pain
Fatigue
Fluid retention
Depression or anger
Hormonal or blood sugar imbalances
Headaches

Specific foods that promote liver health include fresh apples, which can also be used in fasting to cleanse the entire body as well as the liver. Fresh beet juice is another effective liver cleanser. Asparagus stimulates the liver and increases liquid flow from the body. Artichokes help purify the liver. Parsley is not only a diuretic and antioxidant, but also contains phytonutrients to support liver health. Broccoli, sprouts and cabbage all increase glutathione levels, which helps the liver rid the body of toxins. Celery, dandelions (especially the young leaves) and prunes are other foods that promote liver health. Raw leafy greens are antioxidants and digestive cleansers. Garlic is indispensable for

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