Liver Detox

The liver is a vital organ. It regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats; produces and secretes enzymes that aid digestion and absorption; stores substances used to make haemoglobin, as well as vitamins A, D, E and K, minerals and fat; helps keep hormones in balance; and removes the various toxins the body takes in.

The liver receives blood from 2 sources: an artery coming from the heart, and a vein coming from the intestines, which carries nutrients and toxins to the liver before they reach the rest of the body.

The toxins we are exposed to every day, whether from food (such as preservatives, colourings, flavour and aroma additives, pesticides and moulds), from breathing in or absorbing environmental substances through the skin, or even substances the body produces itself, are sent to the liver to be cleared. If the liver cannot keep up, these substances may be released into the bloodstream.

The liver is better able to repair and regenerate itself than other organs once the causes of damage are removed. Liver detoxification is one further option that may help support the liver's recovery.

Who may consider a liver detox

A liver detox may be an option for people whose habits or lifestyle place extra load on the liver, such as:

These habits may weaken immunity, allow toxins to build up and make the liver work harder. Over time they are associated with a higher risk of conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver abscess and diabetes.

• People who smoke or drink alcohol regularly
• People with unhealthy eating habits, such as heavily seasoned or grilled and barbecued food
• Business people, executives, and anyone under high stress who does not get enough rest or sleep

How a liver detox is done

The physician prepares an intravenous drip containing vitamins, minerals and amino acids that the body uses to build various enzymes, in particular glutathione, which plays a role in the body's detoxification process.

Glutathione helps convert substances that do not dissolve in water, such as heavy metals, pesticides, some medicines and alcohol, into water-soluble forms. The liver then excretes most of them through the intestines in the stool, while some are reabsorbed into the bloodstream and excreted by the kidneys.

The kidneys therefore work harder during this process. Anyone receiving a liver detox needs adequate kidney function and should be assessed by a physician before starting.

Potential benefits of a liver detox

A liver detox is supportive care, not a treatment for liver disease, and results vary from person to person. Potential benefits include:

• May help support the production of several enzymes the liver uses to clear toxins
• May help protect the liver from the effects of toxins, medicines, chemicals or alcohol
• May help support liver recovery and the clearance of residual substances. For cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, it should only be used as supportive care under the supervision of the treating physician
• Increases antioxidants that help reduce free-radical damage to cells, especially liver cells
• May help support the immune system and may ease the severity of cold or allergy symptoms
• Helps the body recycle other antioxidants, such as vitamin C, for reuse
• May help reduce fat build-up in the liver and fat deposits on blood vessel walls
• May help support cell repair throughout the body; a liver detox is not a treatment for, or a way to prevent, cancer
• May help support the strength of tissues such as skin, collagen, elastin and tendons, and the elasticity of blood vessels