Liver, protectant

Christopher Hobbs:

“Liver protectants are herbs and foods that support liver function, increasing its production of proteins and enzymes to help it rebuild itself.”

Etiologic and Contributing Factors for Liver Protection

1. Etiologic Factors:
   • Viral infections (e.g., hepatitis A, B, C).
   • Chronic alcohol use.
   • Exposure to toxins (e.g., industrial chemicals, contaminated food).
   • Use of hepatotoxic medications (e.g., acetaminophen overdose).
   • Metabolic conditions (e.g., fatty liver disease, hemochromatosis).
2. Other Factors:
   • Obesity and poor diet (high-fat, high-sugar diets).
   • Smoking and recreational drug use.
   • Chronic stress, which may exacerbate oxidative damage.
   • Autoimmune disorders affecting the liver (e.g., autoimmune hepatitis).

Signs to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent fatigue, weakness, or jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes).
• Swelling in the abdomen (ascites) or legs.
• Dark urine or pale stools.
• Persistent nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite.
• Confusion or mental fog (signs of hepatic encephalopathy).
• Severe pain in the upper right abdomen.
• Unexplained weight loss.