What Is a Liver Detox? Common Misconceptions

The liver carries out processes such as protein synthesis and digestion— vital functions that require the production of enzymes. As the body's largest internal organ, it has more than 500 roles. One of its most important tasks is detoxification, the process of removing toxins from the body.

People sometimes think they can cleanse the liver by following various detox programs or taking dietary supplements. Do these programs really help, or do they do more harm to the body? Let us examine this together.

What is a liver detox?

Liver detoxes are programs claiming to improve a person's health by removing toxins from the body. Detox diets usually involve a long period of fasting followed by raw vegetables, fruit and fruit juices. Some programs advocate colon cleansing (enemas) and dietary supplements. Many products and practices are marketed as detoxes. However, it should be remembered that products and practices containing the word detox may have been created for commercial purposes.

Are liver detox diets safe?

Many people think they can detox their liver through various detox programs they follow at weekends or herbal products they use. Contrary to popular belief, however, these practices may do more harm than good.

A scientifically established liver detox that clears toxins from your body or makes you healthier does not exist. There are medical treatments for liver diseases, but these do not include detox programs or supplements.

What you need to know about liver detox programs and supplements

Detox programs or dietary supplements used to remove toxins from the body and lead a healthier life may have unwanted side effects:

• Some products contain substances that may be harmful and cause disease.
• If you have kidney disease, programs that largely involve fruit juice may make the condition worse.
• Unpasteurized fruit juices may make you ill if you have a weak immune system.
• If you have diabetes, you should consult your doctor before starting a program that changes your diet.
• Liver cleansing programs that severely restrict protein and require prolonged fasting may cause headaches and exhaustion.
• Green tea extract can cause liver damage (hepatitis). Coffee enemas included in some regimens may lead to infections and electrolyte problems that can be fatal.

Do liver detox programs help you lose weight in a healthy way?

There are some claims that detoxes lead to weight loss. However, the studies used as evidence involved small numbers of people, and their scientific quality is insufficient.

Low-calorie liver detox programs cause rapid weight loss that is mostly due only to fluid loss. People regain the weight when they return to their daily eating habits.

Does a liver detox help eliminate the effects of alcohol and harmful foods?

Some people have reported feeling better and more energetic after detox programs. This may be because they largely avoid solid fats, foods with added sugar and processed foods. However, when it comes to whether these programs reduce toxins from unhealthy food or alcohol, there is no evidence.

Depending on the level of alcohol use, the liver will work harder to remove toxins. However, heavy alcohol use can damage the liver over time and, further down the line, lead to liver cirrhosis and cancer.

Do dietary supplements help cleanse the liver?

The most commonly used herbal products in liver detoxes are milk thistle, dandelion and turmeric. Some studies indicate that components of milk thistle help relieve the symptoms of certain liver diseases. However, there is no study showing that it treats the disease.

Turmeric is claimed to help protect against liver damage. However, there is not enough research to support its regular use. Dandelion requires further studies to prove that it works.

Artichoke, which belongs to the milk thistle family, is known for its benefits to the liver. However, it is better to eat artichoke naturally in season rather than take it as a tablet. This allows you and your family to enjoy a healthy meal.

Remember that no dietary "supplement" has approval from health authorities for use in any disease. Most products are not tested in clinical trials. In recent years, we have frequently seen an increase in liver damage caused by dietary supplement use. You should therefore always consult your doctor before using a product.

What are the ways to strengthen the liver and prevent disease?

Although you cannot change genetic factors, you can focus on lifestyle changes to protect against liver diseases. By following the recommendations below, you can strengthen your liver and prevent damage:

• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink; if possible, do not drink at all.
• Eat a balanced diet every day. Choose a healthy diet based on vegetables, fruit, nuts, whole grains, and lean and plant-based sources of protein.
• A healthy weight should be maintained.
• Exercise every day if possible. If you do not have an active lifestyle, consult your doctor first.
• Do not share razors, toothbrushes or other household items.
• Avoid risky behaviors that may lead to viral hepatitis transmitted through blood or sexual contact.
• If you want dental and oral procedures, manicures, pedicures or skin tattoos, make sure they are carried out with sterile equipment in a hygienic environment.

- Related topic: What is fatty liver, why does it occur and what problems does it cause?

Conclusion & Summary

The liver is a unique organ. It can rapidly repair damaged tissue by renewing its own cells in a very short time, without the need for any supplements or practices. There is no scientific evidence for detox diets that promise to heal the liver.

To protect your health, you need to distinguish facts from rumors. Of course, there are things you can do to support your liver and your health. The care you take in daily life, a healthy / vegetable-based diet, avoiding alcohol and an active lifestyle are the best forms of detox you can adopt. Sometimes, even not using supplements may give your liver a break and help it renew itself. You can start working toward a healthy liver by making healthier food choices every day.

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