The liver is the second largest organ in the body (after the skin), responsible for detoxification of various metabolites, synthesis of proteins, enzymes, and hormones, and production of bile (a fluid necessary for the digestion process). It purifies the blood by removing dead cells and invading bacteria and neutralizing harmful hormones.
Bodies are exposed to various toxins ingested through food and drink, environment, alcohol consumption, chemicals, heavy metals, pesticides, use of abusing drugs, and by-products of various metabolization that occurs in the body.
The liver is the cleansing site of all these toxins, and its effective functioning is very crucial for the health of the human body.
When the liver is impaired, these toxins cannot be eliminated. As a result, they may start to accumulate in the form of fat, which further leads to a condition called fatty liver.
Liver detoxing is an important step in recovery and includes the following signs:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Anxiety
- Tremors
- Increased heart rate
- Increase blood pressure
- Confusion
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Excessive sweating
8 signs that your liver needs a detox
A dysfunctional liver can cause various illnesses and possess health risks, such as:
- Abdominal bloating: Especially after a meal and weight gain in the abdominal area due to the lack of fat metabolization.
- Excessive sweating: Increased body odor and bad breath are some of the early signs of liver impairment.
- Fatigue: Feeling of extreme tiredness even after a good sleep.
- Skin disorders: Rashes, dry, itchy, and discolored skin could be a result of liver abnormalities.
- Digestive problems: Decreased production of bile can lead to symptoms, such as constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn.
- Mood swings: Recurrent headaches, poor concentration, and depression are concerning signs of liver damage.
- Hormonal imbalance: An impaired liver may cause estrogen and testosterone hormone imbalance resulting in decreased libido and increased premenstrual symptoms.
- Chemical hypersensitivity: Experiencing a wide range of symptoms after smelling strong perfumes or different fragrances.
How can you detox your liver at home?
Each person is unique. Every person will have different experiences when detoxing; however, when starting a detox, a person may notice a temporary worsening of any of the current symptoms.
The following are a few simple ways to detox the liver:
- Drink plenty of water to flush out the toxins
- Increasing physical activity and regular exercise can help the process of detoxification
- Maintain a proper sleep schedule
- Consume anti-inflammatory foods, such as green vegetables, beans, grains, and mushrooms
- Reduce toxins from the diet by avoiding alcohol, sugar, tobacco, processed foods, and caffeine
- Digestion helpers, such as probiotics, available in fermented foods are beneficial
There are no detox drugs, crash diets, or herbal supplements that detox the body. It is a gradual process where a person needs to eat healthy food and maintain hydration.
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Coy A. 6 Signs That a Liver Detox Is Working. Addiction Group. https://www.addictiongroup.org/blog/liver-detox-working/
Pichardo G. Can a Detox or Cleanse Help Your Liver. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/liver-detox
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