fatty liver disease Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Liver Detoxification a Smart Way to Help Resolve Chronic Health Problems

The AHA! Team — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 05:22:40 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) – a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver – is nearing epidemic proportions in the United States. Yet, the silence about this major health condition is deafening. For example, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases reports that up to 40 percent of American adults have some degree of NAFLD – a shocking statistic. But the bad news doesn’t stop there. Recent research has shed light on the growing prevalence of NAFLD, even among children. So, obviously, a substantial portion of the population could benefit from liver detoxification. Poor liver function can also contribute to other chronic health issues, such as “leaky gut” syndrome and various autoimmune disorders. Fortunately, a holistic medicine approach can help to identify and address the root causes of disease with proper testing, lifestyle coaching, nutritional interventions and supplements designed to promote liver detoxification. Urgent need for liver detoxification: The alarming rise of environmental toxins damaging our health It is probably safe to say that we are being flooded, like never before, by an onslaught of toxins. Heavily processed foods, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), trans fats, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, dyes, prescription medications, and environmental toxins (such as synthetic pesticides, hormones, and heavy metals) all place a tremendous burden on the body in general – especially the liver. Along with breaking down hormones, drugs, and environmental toxins, the liver also helps clear the body of naturally occurring waste products – such as ammonia and bilirubin – and destroys old and worn-out red blood cells. In addition to its detoxifying duties, the liver produces the bile that is necessary to break down fats, produces essential proteins and cholesterol, and stores essential vitamins. However, a liver overwhelmed by toxins can’t adequately carry out these essential functions. To make matters worse, many people tend to drink too much alcohol – which suppresses natural bodily functions. Impaired liver function can be indicated by a wide range of signs and symptoms, including dark urine, yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), itchy skin, fatigue, and excessive sweating. Digestive problems – such as heartburn, nausea, constipation, and bloating – can also be a tip-off to liver problems, along with anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and a tendency to bruise easily. If you think you may have liver disease, promptly consult a trusted holistic healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Warning: Impaired detoxification pathways can promote inflammation and autoimmune disorders To rid the body of toxins, the liver must transform fat-soluble compounds into water-soluble compounds, a process that allows them to be eliminated via urine, feces, or perspiration. This involves two primary detoxification pathways: Phase I and Phase II. Phase I changes the structure of the compound to allow molecules to attach to it. In Phase II, the liver metabolizes the compound through processes such as methylation and sulfation. As compounds pass through Phase I, they become (temporarily) more immune-reactive and pro-inflammatory. This normal process can become a problem, however, if the liver has poor detoxification function. If the Phase II pathway is disrupted or impaired, compounds that have been made more inflammatory in Phase I may end up back in circulation – causing systemic inflammation and immune system reactions and setting the stage for autoimmune disease. In this manner, poor liver function can contribute to a host of problems, including leaky gut, food and chemical sensitivities, and autoimmune disorders. 4 ways to support your detoxification pathways – naturally Fortunately, a wide variety of natural and herbal supplements have tried-and-true abilities to promote liver health and spark up sluggish detoxification pathways. Betaine – an amino acid found in wheat bran, beets, spinach, and “ancient” grains such as quinoa and bulgar – assists in the breakdown and removal of fats from the liver. It has also been shown to protect against toxins and chemicals found in pesticides (including ethanol and carbon tetrachloride) and is particularly effective for Phase II methylation support. Milk thistle is also effective at detoxifying heavy metals and medications. Studies have shown that its active ingredient, silymarin, strengthens the walls of liver cells. Dandelion greens have a natural diuretic effect on the liver, allowing it to flush out toxins more quickly and efficiently. They also support healthy bile production. Finally, N-acetyl-cysteine – a derivative of the amino acid cysteine – replenishes levels of glutathione, the body’s master antioxidant and detoxifier. (N-acetyl-cysteine is so effective at protecting the liver that it is administered in cases of acetaminophen overdose in order to help ward off liver failure). Of course, always check with a trusted holistic healthcare provider before supplementing. Cleanse the liver by eating the right foods Potassium is closely tied to liver health. Eating healthy amounts of organic sweet potatoes, bananas, beet greens, and spinach can help you reach the recommended daily amount of 4,700 mg. Leafy greens such as organic kale contain chlorophyll, which binds to toxins and heavy metals and helps remove them from the bloodstream. (Another plus: dark leafy greens like kale and dandelion greens enhance the flow of bile). Organic carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. This fat-soluble nutrient can effectively flush toxins from the liver. Cruciferous vegetables, such as organic Brussels sprouts and cabbage, are rich in glucosinolates, compounds that support enzyme production in the liver. Organic citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries provide healthy amounts of vitamin C, which helps convert toxic materials to water-soluble forms. Finally, organic walnuts are high in arginine – which is particularly helpful in detoxifying ammonia – and rich in glutathione, the body’s master antioxidant. Of course, don’t forget about the detoxifying power of ‘liver cleanses,’ which can help rid the liver of deposits and toxins – while increasing energy and well-being, improving digestion and lipid profiles, and boosting memory and cognition. Natural health experts recommend at least two liver (and gallbladder) cleanses a year. Editor’s note: Find out how to eliminate the threat of fatty liver disease with highly effective natural protocols, own the Fatty Liver Docu-Class created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. NIH.gov DrKNews.com GlobalHealingCenter.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Regular Exercise May Help Prevent Fatty Liver Disease Through Bile Acid Metabolism

The AHA! Team — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 05:30:05 +0000

American Physiological Society (APS) via Newswise – Aerobic exercise and a high capacity for exercise may protect against metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), also known as fatty liver disease, by increasing the conversion of cholesterol into bile acids, according to a new study published in Function. The paper has been selected as an APSselect article for July by the American Physiological Society (APS). MASLD is a chronic condition in which excessive fat is stored in the liver. It is tied to high cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, obesity and insulin resistance. It can also lead to liver disease and increases the risk of heart disease. While exercise is known to prevent and treat fatty liver, researchers don’t yet understand exactly how this happens. This new study offers insights: Researchers propose that exercise prevents or reduces fatty liver, in part, by improving bile acid metabolism. The most prominent way cholesterol is removed from the body is by its conversion to bile acids, which aid the digestion of fat and trigger signals that improve how the body uses sugar and fat. By stimulating bile acid metabolism, exercise increases the disposal of cholesterol and activates signals that improve how the body processes food. In the study, rats bred to have genetically high- or low-exercise capacity were provided a high-fat diet, which normally causes fatty liver. This design was chosen because exercise capacity has been independently linked to lower risk for fatty liver disease in people. In addition, genetically identical mice were fed a high-fat diet, and half were allowed access to voluntary running wheels to simulate daily exercise in humans. A separate group of mice that lacked the ability to make bile acids were studied to test whether bile acid metabolism is necessary for the protective effects of exercise. Key findings included: High-exercise capacity rats had higher liver bile acid production, more bile acids in their feces, and lower blood levels of bile acids compared to the low-exercise capacity group. Daily exercise also increased bile acid synthesis, fecal bile acid loss and protected against fatty liver in the genetically identical mice. This demonstrates that daily exercise provides the same benefit as high exercise capacity due to genetic differences. Mice with an impaired ability to produce bile acids experienced no benefit of exercise in preventing fatty liver. Aerobic exercise increased bile acid production, and this process was required to prevent fatty liver. “Importantly, our results identify bile acid synthesis as a key mediator between aerobic capacity, exercise and hepatic energy metabolism that may also be linked to whole-body metabolism and long-term risk for Type 2 diabetes and MASLD,” the researchers wrote. “[B]ile acid synthesis plays a critical role in aerobic capacity and exercise ability in combating MASLD.” Read the full article, “Aerobic Capacity and Exercise Mediate Protection Against Hepatic Steatosis via Enhanced Bile Acid Metabolism.” It is highlighted as one of this month’s “best of the best” as part of the American Physiological Society’s APSselect program. Read this month’s selected research articles.   To read the original article click here.

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Plant-Based Compound Helps Fight Fatty Liver Disease, Type 2 Diabetes & Obesity

The AHA! Team — Mon, 12 May 2025 05:24:07 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common form of bacterial infection, triggering emergency room visits for roughly a million Americans annually. Scientists warn that nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the presence of excess fat in the livers of people with no history of alcohol abuse, currently affects close to 30 percent of the world’s adult population, with rates climbing steadily. While NAFLD is often mild, in some cases, it can progress to devastating outcomes such as cirrhosis, liver cancer, liver failure, and death. Clearly, there’s an urgent need for safe, effective therapies to prevent, alleviate, and reverse this potentially dangerous condition. A natural compound known as berberine might help fill the bill. Berberine has been a staple of Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. A new systematic review in the Journal of Translational Medicine reveals that berberine can help normalize blood sugar, promote weight loss, and prevent the accumulation of fat – a winning “trifecta” of health benefits that may help put NAFLD on the run. Researchers say berberine “shows promise as an adjunct therapy for NAFLD” Berberine – a bright yellow alkaloid derived from barberry plants – has long been advised in traditional Chinese medicine as a natural intervention to balance blood sugar. To explore its effects on NAFLD, researchers evaluated randomized, controlled studies performed between 2010 and 2022 involving over 800 NAFLD patients. They concluded that berberine can “safely and effectively” improve lipid profiles, lower liver enzymes, lower body weight, and increase insulin sensitivity in patients with NAFLD, leading them to acknowledge its “significant therapeutic potential for NAFLD.” While more research is needed, these encouraging results suggest that berberine may be used to address not only NAFLD but also obesity and type 2 diabetes. Berberine is a potent lipid-lowering compound Berberine works through multiple pathways to promote health and combat disease. Research has shown that it alleviates the oxidative stress and inflammation that contribute to fatty liver disease while also helping to activate AMPK, an enzyme that regulates metabolism. In addition, it enhances mitochondrial function, decreases insulin resistance, and helps the body break down sugars more quickly and easily. The authors of the new review pointed out that berberine significantly lowers blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes – in some studies, by as much as 20 percent. But that isn’t all. This versatile compound also benefits the cardiovascular system by helping to prevent the development of cholesterol-laden plaque in arteries. Support heart and gut health In an earlier review published in Phytomedicine, researchers found that berberine can improve cholesterol by lowering LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL cholesterol. They cited a study in which berberine lowered triglycerides (fats in the blood) by an eye-popping 23 percent – and dropped total cholesterol by 12.2 percent. As if that weren’t impressive enough, berberine has been shown to reduce levels of C-reactive protein and apolipoprotein B, which are believed to be risk factors for heart disease. Last but not least, berberine supports a healthy gut microbiome by enhancing populations of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Is berberine really “nature’s Ozempic?” Some fans of berberine have likened its effects to that of Ozempic, the popular weight loss drug. Ozempic, or semaglutide, belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 agonists. It stimulates the release of insulin and is normally prescribed for improving blood sugar and lowering the risk of heart disease in people with type 2 diabetes. Although semaglutide is not approved by the FDA for weight loss, millions of people use it for this purpose. However, side effects of this medication can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Incidentally, studies have linked these weight loss drugs to thyroid tumors. And the cost can be prohibitive. According to a recent review conducted by the Cleveland Clinic, weight loss from Ozempic depends on the dosage and the length of time the patients took the drug, with obese patients losing an average of 3.7 percent of their body weight after one year. So, how does berberine stack up against Ozempic? Studies have supported this natural compound’s ability to enhance the oxidation of liver fat and interfere with the growth of fat cells. Multiple clinical trials have shown it can cause small but significant weight loss. For example, one older 12-week study showed that 500 mg of berberine three times a day caused about 5 pounds of weight loss while lowering the percent of body fat – including deposits of harmful abdominal fat. Offering an excellent safety profile – and an entire menu of health benefits – berberine appears to have remarkable potential for supporting balanced blood sugar, easing NAFLD, promoting healthy weight, and enhancing overall well-being. Sources for this article include: Biomedcentral.com Verywellfit.com Healthline.com Sciencedirect.com Verywellhealth.com Healthline.com JAMAnetwork.com To read the original article click here.

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Slash Your Risk of NAFLD by Breaking THIS Harmful Habit

The AHA! Team — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 05:08:37 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – It’s estimated that one in four adults suffers from nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition where excess fat accumulates in the liver without alcohol being a factor. While alcohol is a well-known culprit of liver disease, a recent study published in the Annals of Hepatology highlights another surprising contributor: soft drinks. The research reveals a strong link between increased soft drink consumption and a higher risk of developing NAFLD, raising concerns about the impact of sugary beverages on liver health. The alarming link between soda consumption and liver disease: What the latest study reveals If you’re someone who can’t resist soda, you’re not alone – soft drinks, sugary sports beverages, and other sugar-filled bottled drinks are highly addictive. However, the latest study published in the Annals of Hepatology raises serious concerns: drinking more soft drinks is linked to a significantly higher risk of developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The data also highlights that men are more likely to develop liver disease from increased soda consumption than women. The initial data collection occurred between 2004 and 2006, and only participants aged 20 or older were included. A follow-up analysis conducted from 2010 to 2012 added 186 new individuals, with 1,627 participants remaining in the study. Diet sodas or those with zero calories were excluded from the analysis. 28% of men consumed between one and three and a half servings of soft drinks per week. 47.4% of men consumed more than three and a half servings per week. 31.1% of women consumed between one and three and a half servings of soft drinks per week. 26.5% of women consumed more than three and a half servings per week. The median weekly soft drink intake for participants was 3.1 servings. Why NAFLD risk varies between men and women: A key insight from the study The study reveals a significant increase in the risk of NAFLD with higher soft drink consumption, showing a 39% higher likelihood of developing NAFLD when soft drink intake rises from less than one serving per week to more than three and a half servings per week. One of the most striking findings is that men have a higher risk of NAFLD as their soft drink consumption increases compared to women. While both sexes see a rise in risk with greater soft drink intake, the increase is more pronounced in men. This suggests that metabolic differences between men and women may play a key role in how the body responds to soft drink consumption, contributing to the observed variances in NAFLD risk. Simple and natural strategies to kick your soda habit Kicking your soda habit might sound tough, but it’s more doable than you think! Instead of going cold turkey, try weaning yourself off the sugary drinks gradually. A gentle transition can make the process feel less overwhelming. Start by swapping out your soda for sparkling water. The fizz can help satisfy that craving for something bubbly, and you can add a splash of lemon, lime, or cucumber to give it a refreshing twist. If you’re missing the sweetness, flavored waters with natural extracts like mint or berry are a great option, too. Try kombucha if you’re looking for something with a little more punch. This tangy, fermented tea is naturally fizzy and can help curb those cravings while also boosting your gut. Another tasty option is prebiotic sodas – these offer the fizz and a bit of sweetness without the sugar overload. For a more festive alternative, sparkling non-alcoholic champagne or grape juice can be a fun treat that feels like a special occasion, minus the sugar high. And if you’re craving something warm, herbal teas can be a comforting choice. You can naturally sweeten them with some honey or stevia if needed. By gradually replacing soda with these simple, flavorful alternatives, you’ll take steps toward a healthier lifestyle without feeling like you’re missing out! Sources for this article include: Sciencedirect.com NIH.gov News-medical.net To read the original article click here.

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The Bizarre Link Between Oreos and Hot Flashes

The AHA! Team — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 06:05:32 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – If you’ve ever eaten an Oreo, you’ve probably noticed how hard it was to eat just one. Don’t worry, it’s not just you! Research has found that Oreos are more addictive than cocaine.[1] A big reason for that is the fact that the cookies are loaded with the artificial sweetener high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS). A Canadian study found that HFCS can cause behavioral reactions similar to those produced by common street drugs.[2] Other research shows that HFCS and cocaine stimulate the same brain circuits. I know what you’re probably thinking… What does all this have to do with hot flashes? Let me explain. As you probably know, HFCS is in a lot of foods that make up the standard American diet. It’s a big part of the reason we have an obesity epidemic in our country. But HFCS does more than make you gain weight. It also causes fat to build up in your liver. When that happens, you can end up with a condition called fatty liver disease. Over the last 10 to 15 years, I’ve seen a sharp increase in the number of patients with fatty liver disease at my clinic – in both men and women. But for women, the symptoms of fatty liver disease can look a lot like menopause. Symptoms like night sweats, exhaustion, extra weight around the abdomen… and hot flashes. That’s why so many mainstream doctors miss this diagnosis. They write the symptoms off as “women’s problems.” The truth is, you could have fatty liver disease and not even know it. Liver diseases are one of the fastest-growing health epidemics in the world. According to a new study, today up to 50% of Americans suffer from nonalcoholic liver disease (NAFLD) – including children as young as 2 years old.[3] And HFCS is a big contributor. You see, HFCS isn’t like other sugars. Most of it goes straight to your liver instead of going into your muscles and tissues for energy. It promotes the formation of new fat molecules. It triggers your liver cells to store this fat where it doesn’t belong. At the same time, it blocks the breakdown of old fats. A study from the University of Florida found patients with fatty liver disease ate two to three times more high fructose corn syrup.[4] And just like alcohol, this cheap fructose is addictive. Once you start eating it, you crave even more sweets. Corn syrup floods your bloodstream, overwhelming your liver’s processing capacity. Your liver becomes inflamed and develops into NAFLD. 3 Simple Tips to Improve Your Liver Health Mainstream medicine has no treatments for this condition. However, I help my patients treat fatty liver disease with three simple, natural solutions. Supplement with DHA. Researchers found that supplementing with the omega-3 fatty acid DHA stops fatty liver disease in its tracks. In the study, they fed animals a Western-style diet that leads to obesity. Then they gave them DHA. The team found that DHA blocked the progression of the worst form of fatty liver disease – even though the animals continued to eat the same dangerous diet.[5] In a human study, volunteers taking 1,000 mg per day of omega-3s decreased serum markers of liver cell damage and levels of triglyceride fats.[6] You see, DHA is anti-inflammatory. It helps to heal liver cell membranes. DHA also suppresses the production of new liver fat cells and stimulates the burning of fat cells. You can get DHA from grass-fed meats and organs. But it’s almost impossible to get enough from your diet. I advise my patients to supplement with between 600 mg and 1,000 of DHA daily from a combination of squid oil and krill oil. Take the liver herb. Milk thistle is also known as the “liver herb.” It has an active compound called silymarin. In a placebo-controlled study of 100 patients, silymarin promoted a significant decline in liver enzyme markers. That indicated a reversal of NAFLD with no serious side effects.[7] Use my favorite supplement. A study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition proved that CoQ10 can also treat NAFLD.[8] The trial included 41 people with mild to moderate NAFLD. Researchers gave half the patients 100 mg of CoQ10 every day. The other half got a placebo. After 12 weeks, all signs of NAFLD were lower in the CoQ10 group. Four of the patients on CoQ10 even returned to normal liver function. You can get CoQ10 from grass-fed organ meat and beef, game, and wild-caught fatty fish. But again, it’s hard to get all you need from diet alone. Normally, I recommend 50 mg daily. But to treat NAFLD, I suggest taking 100 to 300 mg per day of the ubiquinol form of CoQ10. Divide it into two doses. References [1] Connecticut College News, October 15, 2013 [2] Addiction to unhealthy foods could help explain the global obesity epidemic. EurekAlert! [3] Cha A. “Fatty liver disease was a disease of the old. Then kids started getting sick.” https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/interactive/2023/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease-kids/. [4] Lyssoiotis C, Cantley. “F stands for fructose and fat.” Nature. 2013;502:181-182. [5] https://synergies.oregonstate.edu/2017/dha-offers-hope-to-stop-deadly-march-toward-cirrhosis-liver-cancer/ [6] Capanni M, et al. “Prolonged n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation ameliorates hepatic steatosis in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a pilot study.” Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2006 Apr 15;23(8):1143-51. [7] Hashemi et al. “A placebo-controlled trial of silymarin in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.” Hepatitis Monthly. 2011;9(4):265-270. [8] Farnaz Farsi et al. “Functions of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on liver enzymes, markers of systemic inflammation, and adipokines in patients affected by nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial.” J Am Coll Nutr. 2016;35(4):346-353 To read the original article click here.

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Detox Your Liver: A 6-Step Liver Cleanse

AHA Publisher — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 08:00:41 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CN – Every person’s health and well-being depends on how well her body removes and purges toxins. With exposure to environmental toxins, toxic body care products and processed foods, most people are in desperate need of a serious detox! A liver cleanse is a great way to do this. One of the main ways that the body rids itself of toxins is through the liver. In fact, the liver is one of the hardest working organs in the body. It works tirelessly to detoxify our blood, produce the bile needed to digest fat, break down hormones, and store essential vitamins, minerals and iron. When liver function is not optimal, we cannot digest our food properly, especially fats. That’s why it’s so important to avoid fatty liver and follow a liver cleanse diet to remove toxins from the body. What Does the Liver Do? Some of the essential functions of the liver include: Processing nutrients absorbed by the intestines so they are more efficiently absorbed Regulating blood composition to balance protein, fat and sugar Destroying old red blood cells Producing essential chemicals to help blood clot properly Breaking down and metabolizing alcohol and medications Producing essential proteins and cholesterol Removing toxins from the bloodstream, including bilirubin, ammonia and others Storing of minerals, iron and vitamin A Scientists know that for the liver to take care of the body, it must be able to perform optimally. When many people think of liver disease, they often think of alcohol-induced cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is a serious health condition, but contrary to popular thought, alcoholism is not the only cause. In fact, there are a number of nonalcoholic factors that can lead to cirrhosis of the liver and liver damage, including Eating uncooked shellfish Some medications (including acetaminophen) Chronic malnutrition Eating poisonous wild mushrooms and exposure to chemicals Chronic hepatitis B Risk Factors for Liver Health Today, we are faced with so many environmental toxins occurring in our homes, places of work and in our food supply. It is essential for our general health and well-being to maintain good liver health. Below are some of the risk factors associated with impaired liver function. Low potassium levels Heavy alcohol abuse Intravenous drug use Blood transfusions prior to 1992 Exposure to certain industrial chemicals and environmental toxins Unprotected sex Obesity and a diet high in saturated fats, and processed foods Tattoos or body piercings High levels of triglycerides in the blood Prescription medications including acetaminophen Viral infections Autoimmune diseases Signs of an Unhealthy Liver If you have recently noticed any of the symptoms listed below, you could be suffering from impaired liver function. It is particularly important to consider these researched symptoms if you identify with one or more of the risk factors mentioned above. Bloating and gas Acid reflux and heartburn Constipation Skin and/or eyes that are yellowish (a symptom of jaundice) Inability to lose weight High blood pressure Moodiness, anxiety or depression Dark urine Rosacea Chronic fatigue Excessive sweating Bruise easily Poor appetite Fortunately, you can help improve your liver’s functioning. Through a thorough liver cleanse, you can start to feel better in a matter of a couple of weeks. Liver Cleanse Diet Follow this natural liver cleanse diet to help boost your health and vitality: 1. Remove Toxic Foods from Your Diet If you are eating a diet high in processed foods, you are putting the health of your liver at risk as these foods basically work against liver health. Hydrogenated oils, refined sugar, convenience foods and lunch meats are notoriously toxic to your system. Hydrogenated oils, also known as “trans fats,” have higher levels of saturated fat. The chemical structure of the oil itself has been altered to increase shelf life. Consumption of trans fats dramatically increases the risk for heart disease by 25 percent or more. In addition, it is believed that trans fats cause problems with our immune system and can lead to inflammation throughout the body. Added nitrates and nitrites, commonly found in convenience foods, fast foods and lunch meats, have been linked to serious health conditions. These chemicals are used to preserve foods to make them last longer, inhibit bacteria growth and preserve color. Replace these foods immediately with liver friendly healthy choices. Healthy foods taste great, and, with a bit of creativity, you can create healthful meals for your family that will support liver health. Roast your own organic chicken breast and turkey breast to replace deli meats for quick lunches and after school snacks. Replace chips and other processed snacks with fresh fruit, carrot sticks, nuts and homemade granola bars. In addition to eating a healthy diet, it’s important to be sure your digestive enzymes are functioning properly. Problems with liver enzymes can also contribute to liver disease and may be related to other digestive illnesses such as Crohn’s disease. 2. Drink Raw Vegetable Juice It can be nearly impossible to eat all of the raw vegetables you need to make your liver cleanse effective. However, by juicing a variety of raw vegetables, you can easily get the 4–5 servings of fresh, organic vegetables you need. Even vegetables that aren’t your favorites can be disguised and enjoyed in a fresh vegetable juice! With impaired liver function, juicing vegetables has the added benefit of making the vegetables easier to digest and more readily available for absorption. Vegetables ideal for liver cleanses include cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. While that combination may not sound very enjoyable, you can add other vegetables that you enjoy to the mix including carrots, cucumber, beets and greens. All of these vegetables help to reduce acid levels in the body, helping to create a more friendly pH balance. Experiment with your favorite flavor combinations; you can add fresh herbs including parsley, mint and others to make the juices more enjoyable. To improve liver health, try my Orange Carrot Ginger Juice. Research suggests that fresh, organic carrots are essential to any liver cleanse. In the liver, the beta carotene is converted into vitamin A to help flush out the toxins in the body while reducing fat in the liver. The high fiber content helps support a healthy digestive tract, hastening the elimination of toxins in your body. The ginger root helps to soothe the digestive tract, reduce intestinal gas, and has strong anti-inflammatory compounds. The fresh oranges in this recipe not only add tangy sweetness, but also add significant vitamin C, additional vitamin A and vitamin B6. 3. Load Up on Potassium-Rich Foods Are you getting the recommended 4,700 milligrams per day of potassium? Chances are, you aren’t. Potassium-rich foods help to lower systolic blood pressure, lower cholesterol and support a healthy cardiovascular system, in addition to helping cleanse your liver. If you have been tempted to take potassium supplements, instead add these healthful foods to your diet. Sweet Potatoes Surprisingly, it is not the banana that is the richest in potassium. It is the sweet potato. A single medium sweet potato contains nearly 700 milligrams of potassium, not to mention the high fiber and beta carotene content. A sweet potato only has 131 calories, yet is rich with vitamins B6, C, D, magnesium and iron. While naturally sweet, the sugars actually are slowly released into the bloodstream through the liver, without causing a spike in blood sugar. Tomato Sauces Potassium, and the other beneficial nutrients in tomatoes, is significantly concentrated as a sauce, puree or as a paste. As an example, 1 cup of tomato puree contains 1,065 milligrams of potassium, but 1 cup of fresh tomatoes contains only 400 milligrams. When selecting tomato sauce, paste or puree, be sure to choose those made only from organic tomatoes. To make your own concentrated tomato sauce, slice organic tomatoes in half and roast face down in the oven for 30 minutes at 425 degrees F, until the skin has shriveled. Remove from the oven, and let cool. Slide the skins off and gently crush in your food processor or blender. Strain to remove seeds, if you desire. Pour into a Dutch oven, and let simmer until thick, 1 to 2 hours. Beet Greens and Spinach Rich in antioxidants, beet greens contain over 1,300 milligrams of potassium per cup. Add beets and beet greens to your fresh vegetable juice recipe; finely chop and add raw to salads; or sauté lightly, like other greens. Beets also naturally cleanse the gallbladder and improve bile flow. Fresh organic spinach is easily added to your diet, and it’s a good source of potassium, containing 840 milligrams per serving. Beans White beans, kidney beans and lima beans are all rich in potassium, protein and fiber. Swap out garbanzo beans for one of these potassium-rich beans in your favorite hummus recipe. Enjoy it with carrot sticks and celery sticks. Blackstrap Molasses Just 2 teaspoons of this rich all-natural syrup contains 10 percent of the daily-recommended amount of potassium. In addition to potassium, blackstrap molasses is rich with iron, calcium, manganese and copper. Incorporate blackstrap molasses into your diet by replacing other natural sweeteners with it. You can use it to create barbecue sauces and to top oatmeal or quinoa porridge in the mornings. Two teaspoons added to coffee intensifies the richness of the coffee, while lowering the acidic taste. Bananas And finally, add a banana to your favorite smoothie. While in comparison to the other high potassium foods on this list, the banana’s 470 milligrams of potassium are only part of the story. Bananas assist in digestion, and help to release toxins and heavy metals from the body — all of which are essential during a liver cleanse. Please note: If you have high levels of potassium in your kidneys, foods rich in potassium should be consumed moderately. 4. Coffee Enemas Coffee enemas help with constipation, reduce fatigue, and aid in liver detoxification. An enema targets the lower portion of your large intestine and can be done at home, unlike colonics, which include the entire bowel and are performed outside the home by a professional. During the enema, organic coffee is retained in your bowel, allowing the fluid to enter the liver through the intestinal wall. This has a stimulating effect that increases bile flow, helping to jump-start both your gallbladder and your liver. This sparks the production of the chemical glutathione, a strong cleansing compound that helps to release the buildup of toxins in your system. Flushing the toxins out during liver cleanses is critical so they don’t build up and are moved quickly out of your system. Combine 2 tablespoons of organic ground coffee with 3 cups of filtered or distilled water in a pot and bring to a boil. Simmer gently for 15 minutes and allow to cool. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and use in your enema kit. Try to retain the mixture for 10–15 minutes and then release. If you’ve experienced complications from using enemas in the past, it’s best to talk to a doctor before trying to perform a coffee enema on your own. The first time you try a coffee enema, it’s a good idea to do so under supervision or with guidance of a medical professional, although some people feel comfortable jumping right into the process. Coffee enemas aren’t usually recommended for pregnant women or children since they can be sensitive to the effects of caffeine. 5. Take Liver Support Supplements Milk Thistle Milk thistle is considered the “king” of detoxifying herbs, making it ideal for a liver cleanse. Milk thistle helps to eliminate the buildup of heavy metals, prescription medications, environmental pollutants and alcohol in the liver. In addition, it helps to reduce the negative effects on the liver after chemotherapy and radiation. Research indicates that the active ingredient silymarin helps to strengthen the cell walls in the liver, while supporting healthy regeneration. Milk thistle can be taken as a supplement or as a liver cleansing detox tea. Dandelion Root Most homeowners hate the dandelion, as it populates yards every spring. But, this flower, and its root, is actually packed with vitamins and minerals....

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Could Harmful Emotions Be Caused By Poor Organ Function?

AHA Publisher — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 07:00:14 +0000

Edit Lang via NaturalHealth365 – According to statistics published by the Mental Health Foundation, one in five Americans struggles with mental health issues each year. Shockingly, fifty percent of chronic mental health problems start before age 14. Not surprisingly, during the COVID pandemic, the percentage of adults with anxiety or depression symptoms rose from 36.4% to 41.5%. Considering the magnitude of the problem, one would expect that Western medicine has many effective treatment options to offer to those suffering. But in reality, medical doctors have limited options available to treat these conditions, aside from the multitude of prescription anxiolytics and antidepressants. Although there is increasing awareness in the scientific community of the connection between our psychological and physical health, the intricacies of this link are still not well understood. In a recent video, Jonathan Landsman of NaturalHealth365 interviewed America’s Drugless Doctor, Dr. Robert DeMaria, to reveal how our organs’ functioning and our emotional health can affect each other. Are You Listening? Understanding Your Body’s Language Is Critical to Achieving Optimum Health In the video, Jonathan and Dr. Bob focus on discussing how changing the vitality of specific organs in the body can affect our mental and emotional health. During the conversation, Dr. Bob points out how Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) recognizes that emotions affect the physical health of the body and vice versa. For instance, according to TCM theory, anger and irritability can affect the liver’s health and result in various ailments, including an enlarged or fatty liver. Many people don’t know, but the liver performs hundreds of critical functions and plays a vital role in digestion and nutrient processing. Anything we put into our body – whether non-productive, unhealthy foods, or the highest quality organic fruits and vegetables – will go through the liver and either weaken or strengthen its vitality. Toxic emotions can also undermine the liver’s functioning. TCM practitioners believe that feelings of resentment, anger, frustration, and irritability are key emotions detrimental to this organ’s wellbeing. Suppose, for instance, that you are one of the 100 million Americans living with fatty liver disease. If at the same time, you are also known for your hot temper, your dysfunctional liver may be to blame for your intense emotional outbursts and anger issues. Interesting concept, isn’t it? Your Lungs Speak Too: Here Is What May Be Behind Chronic Lung Issues So while the dominant emotion associated with the liver is anger, unprocessed and persistent feelings of sadness appear to manifest ailments in the lungs. To illustrate the connection between lung issues and sorrow or grief, Dr. Bob shared a story about his wife, who developed a chronic lung problem due to the profound sadness she experienced when her younger son was going off to college. Once they uncovered that the root of her chronic lung issue was not a physical dysfunction but rather the consequence of her harmful emotions, they could successfully address the condition. Whether this is the first time you hear about the relationship between mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing, or you are quite familiar with the concept, you don’t want to miss watching this video. Learn the Five Basic Feelings Associated with Specific Organs in the Body, According to TCM Traditional Chinese Medicine narrows human emotions to five basic feelings and links each of them with a corresponding organ in the body: Anger with the liver Sadness and grief with the lung Worry and anxiety with the spleen Fear with the kidney Joy with the heart Take note of these emotion-organ relationships, as this information may come in handy next time you feel overwhelmed by negative emotions or receive a diagnosis of a physical ailment. Even a basic understanding of these concepts can be incredibly empowering and may open the door to various treatment modalities previously unavailable to you. What’s the Bottom Line? It’s time to expand our horizon and consider TCM’s 2,000-year-old pearls of wisdom and recognize how intricate the connection is between our emotional and physical health. Understanding that emotional imbalances can act as both symptoms and causes for physical issues can be life-changing to millions of people seeking an alternative to the “pill for every ill” medical approach. Find a qualified healthcare provider to guide you on your journey towards improved health. And, of course – above all, stay positive (confident) that you can make a change for the better with simple lifestyle adjustments. Sources used for this article: MentalHealthFolundation.org NIH.gov CDC.gov To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Protein Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe: A Low-Sugar Treat

AHA Publisher — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 08:00:07 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – Fudge is a classic childhood favorite. It brings back warm memories of after-dinner treats with family. But like so many of the recipes we enjoyed years ago, when I look at the ingredients in traditional fudge recipes, I cringe. Conventional fudge is often filled with refined sugar, corn syrup and other ingredients I avoid. This peanut butter fudge recipe is going to knock your socks off. Not only is it super simple to make (we’re talking five minutes prep, 30 minutes setting time), it’s also good for you. That’s right, this easy peanut butter fudge is healthy and tastes delicious. Once you try this fudge, you’ll never go back to the other stuff. Key Ingredients If you look at an old-fashioned fudge recipe, there aren’t too many ingredients. The problem is that the ones on the list are pretty bad for you. A batch of fudge usually takes several cups of white sugar. The sweet substance is inflammatory and can cause heart problems and increase your risk of diabetes, obesity, cancer and fatty liver disease. If you’re trying to maintain normal blood sugar, white sugar is one of the worst things you can have. It spikes your blood sugar levels quickly, which then drops dramatically soon after, causing irritability, headaches and a lack of energy. Compare that to the mere ¼ cup of maple syrup we use in this recipe. Now, while maple syrup is still a sweetener, it’s a natural kind, so it comes with benefits like antioxidants and trace minerals, which table sugar doesn’t have. It’s also lower on the glycemic index, so when you do have maple syrup, it doesn’t affect your blood sugar quite as drastically as white sugar. But what I like best about this peanut butter fudge recipe is all the other good stuff it contains. Instead of making a chocolate-based fudge, I opted for a peanut butter version. Now, there’s often a lot of debate about whether peanut butter is bad for you or not. Many of the big brands are — they’re full of hydrogenated oils and moldy peanuts. But if you choose an organic peanut butter, made from Valencia peanuts, with just peanuts and maybe salt in the ingredients list, the spread can be a really healthy option. Coconut butter helps to make this easy peanut butter fudge flavorful and chewy, too. It’s made from ground coconut meat and has a variety of benefits. The healthy fats in this and the coconut oil make this peanut butter fudge a great snack option if you’re on a ketogenic diet (just substitute the maple syrup for stevia). While the peanut butter in this fudge recipe gives it some protein, you can easily add even more and make this fudge a great post-workout snack by adding in peanut butter-flavored protein powder made from bone broth. Bone broth is full of ingredients like collagen and gelatin, which promote healthy bones and help you feel good from the inside out. It’s also a fun way to tailor this peanut butter fudge recipe to your tastes; while I love the double-dose of peanut butter and PB-flavored protein made from bone broth in my fudge, you could opt for a dark chocolate protein to get more of a classic chocolate taste. How to Make Peanut Butter Fudge Since this peanut butter fudge takes so little time to prepare, let’s get it going! First, add all of the ingredients to the food processor. I start with the coconut butter and coconut oil. Next, I add in the peanut butter. Then, I add in the maple syrup. You can do this in any order you like, though. Don’t forget the protein powder if you choose to use it! Blend the ingredients together until the fudge mixture is smooth. You can add more coconut oil here if necessary. Then, line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper and pour the peanut butter fudge mixture into it. Use a rubber spatula to evenly distribute the mix around the pan. Stick the pan in the freezer for 30 minutes or until the peanut butter fudge has hardened. Serve and enjoy! To keep extras, store the fudge in the refrigerator. Protein Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe DESCRIPTION This peanut butter fudge recipe is going to knock your socks off. Not only is it super simple to make (we’re talking five minutes prep, 30 minutes setting time), it’s also good for you. INGREDIENTS 1 cup coconut butter 1 cup creamy organic peanut butter (with Valencia peanuts) 1 tablespoon peanut butter (or pure) flavored protein powder made from bone broth (optional) ½ cup melted coconut oil ¼ cup maple syrup ¼ teaspoon sea salt INSTRUCTIONS Add all the ingredients to a food processor and blend until mixture is smooth, adding more melted coconut oil if needed. Pour the mixture into a 8×8 baking dish lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 30 minutes or until ready to serve. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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WARNING to “Healthy Weight” Individuals: Fatty Liver Health Problems Could Be Brewing Inside

AHA Publisher — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 07:00:03 +0000

Joy Jensen via NaturalHealth365 – Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become an epidemic in the U.S. – with over 100 million people being affected by this disease. To make matters even worse, most people have no idea it’s happening to them. To be clear: poor liver function has the potential to progress to more serious health issues like, chronic liver inflammation, scarring and cancer. In the past, experts simply believed that NAFLD affected primarily overweight individuals. And, while that’s true that obesity is connected to a fatty liver – there is a much bigger problem (no pun intended) for those walking around with a “healthy” body weight. In fact, new research reveals that even those who are not overweight can be affected by a fatty liver and researchers uncovered evidence that NAFLD presents itself in different ways based upon both body mass index (BMI) and gender. SHOCKING Truth About “Non-Obese Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease” Conventionally-speaking, NAFLD is commonly associated with high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, and excess body weight. No doubt, we’ve seen this disease explode in numbers – within the U.S. – as a direct proportion to the obesity epidemic. However, it’s recently become more common in Asia despite the fact that those living in that area of the world tend to notbe obese compared to the population in Europe and the United States. So, you can imagine the surprise of researchers when they discovered “non-obese NAFLD.” To make matters even more shocking: researchers discovered that non-obese NAFLD has a higher mortality ratethan that of obese NAFLD. Normally, increased visceral fat and reduced skeletal mass present as strong risk factors for the development of fatty liver in patients with obesity. However, for non-obese NAFLD, researchers didn’t have this type of insight and started looking at both non-obese and obese patients. They discovered that a quarter of the both males and females had non-obese fatty liver disease. Researchers were surprised to find that these individuals had lower muscle strength and skeletal muscle mass than patients with NAFLD who also were diagnosed with obesity. Belly fat was low in these patients, and the study found only a modest increase in insulin resistance and liver fatty accumulation. Researchers commented that these results show that there are key differences in how fatty liver disease presents itself in men and women who aren’t obese. And it’s a reminder that even individuals without obesity are at risk for fatty liver disease. Want to AVOID COVID-Related Complications? Read this Very Carefully Recently, studies found that patients with fatty liver disease had a great risk of hospitalization with COVID-19 due to COVID-related complications. With this new study on non-obese NAFLD, we now know that even more people are likely at risk for this increased risk of coronavirus complications. Bottom line: we need to have a greater appreciation (and respect) for healthy liver function. Simply put, a healthy liver is crucial for us to enjoy a healthy life. Liver function literally affects every organ and system of the body from hormone production, blood sugar regulation and the removal of harmful toxins from the body. If your liver struggles, so will you. Find out how poor liver function can increase the risk of autoimmune disorders, cancer, diabetes, heart disease plus much more! Click to to sign up now for the Fatty Liver Docu-Class created by Jonathan Landsman. This event starts Oct. 6, 2020. Don’t miss it … Register Today! Sources for this article include: Eurekalert.org, NaturalHealth365.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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