By Karen Stephenson

Everyone should understand the vital role that liver plays in nurturing and protecting the body. Being aware of what the liver does and what steps to take to protect the liver is important in preventing liver disease.

The liver is a resilient, maintenance-free organ that we usually don't think about until something goes wrong. There's an extensive list of responsibilities that the liver undertakes but it often comes under siege by viruses, toxic substances (including alcohol), contaminants and disease. Even when it is under attack, the liver is very slow to respond. Often, people with liver problems will be completely unaware because they may have few symptoms. The liver is such a tenacious organ that it will continue working even when two thirds of it has been damaged by cirrhosis - a degenerative disease characterized by scarring.

While there have been incredible advances in treating liver diseases, there are no cures. This is why it is important to take steps to prevent liver disease.

The liver is the largest internal organ in the body. Its main functions are to:

• Store nutrients.
• Produce proteins.
• Metabolize most nutrients that are absorbed in the intestinal tract.
• Detoxify blood (removing medications, alcohol, and other harmful chemicals so they can be excreted by the urinary or digestive system).
• Convert sugars to glycogen and store it until the body needs it.
• Produce chemicals needed to break down food and alcohol.

The term liver disease applies to numerous diseases and disorders that affect the liver's ability to function. There are many forms of liver disease that include:

• Amebic liver abscess
• Autoimmune hepatitis
• Biliary atresia
• Cirrhosis
• Drug-induced cholestasis
• Hemochromatosis
• Hepatitis A, B, C, D
• Hepatocellular carcinoma
• Liver cancer
• Liver disease due to alcohol
• Primary biliary cirrhosis
• Pyogenic liver abscess
• Reye's Syndrome
• Sclerosing cholangitis

Symptoms of Liver Disorders

With so many different forms of liver disease it is hard to list all symptoms. Hepatitis and cirrhosis are the most common and there are few warning signs. Common symptoms of the acute phase of hepatitis include: flu-like symptoms such as tiredness, nausea, fever, loss of appetite and pain under the ribs. Some jaundice (yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin) may also occur.

The time following the acute stage, hepatitis A will be eradicated and a lifelong immunity forms.. With hepatitis B and C, viral particles linger in the system and produce chronic infection that can last for years. This generally leads to liver cirrhosis and, in some cases, liver cancer. Signs and symptoms of cirrhosis include:

• abdominal pain
• itching
• intestinal bleeding
• nausea
• jaundice
• weakness
• weight loss
• small spider-like blood vessels under the skin
• easy bruising
• swelling in the abdomen and legs

Lack of Proper Nutrition and Chemical Intake Can Lead to Liver Diseases

Diet can lead to problems with the liver. Being overweight is linked to the build up of fat in the liver, which is referred to as "fatty liver." Over several years, a fatty liver can contribute to a person with hepatitis C developing cirrhosis.

A person's food intake can contain toxins that are harmful to the liver, especially when there is too much consumption of certain toxins. Examples of this are foods laced with pesticides, alcohol and excessive sugar intake.

Toxins not only come from food, but also from the air you breathe. In this simple process toxins are carried from the respiratory system into the blood stream, making their way into the liver. Individuals who clean their homes with cleaning products containing chemicals or use manufactured-produced air fresheners and personal care products that contain chemicals are increasing their chances of contracting liver disease later in life.

Managing Liver Disease Through Diet

Individuals with liver disease must maintain a well-balanced diet that ensures adequate caloric intake, carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Following a strict diet helps the liver in regenerating new cells. Nutrition that supports regeneration is a form of treatment for some liver diseases.

Those with cirrhosis who are malnourished, require a protein-rich diet with 2,000 to 3,000 calories per day. Some cirrhotic patients have protein intolerance and for them, too much protein can increase the production of ammonia in the blood, while not enough protein can reduce healing of the liver.

Tips for a Healthy Liver

Eat lots of foods containing folate, magnesium, sulphate, iron, selenium, and B-vitamins because toxicity in the body can be caused due to the lack of nutrients that the liver needs to detox. Salads, beans, fresh juice, lentils, eggs, fish and chicken are good choices. Be sure to consume foods that are rich in antioxidants because they aid the natural detox process. These foods include: broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussel sprouts and kale. Artichokes in particular have protective and restorative powers as it acts as a blood purifier.

Stay away from stimulants such as coffee and tea and avoid smoking and alcohol as these are depressants. Salt and processed sugars are also items that are advisable to use in moderation. Avoid using antibiotics because these can destroy useful bacteria that help to eliminate toxins. Antacids are also on the list of things to avoid because they decrease the natural acidity that is required for complete digestion.

Herbs for a Healthy Liver

Milk thistle is the most popular herb for a healthy liver. This is because it contains antioxidant flavonoids which protect liver cells from damage by preventing toxins from being absorbed and it enhances regeneration.

Dandelion makes a great liver treatment because it is highly effective and inexpensive. All parts of the dandelion can be useful, but the root is the most popular liver remedy. Dandelion leaves are known for promoting kidney health.

Licorice was often used in Eastern medicine to treat liver problems. Licorice is said to increase the production of interferon, which may explain this herb's unique ability to defend liver health from harmful toxins.

Education and a healthy lifestyle are your best weapons in the battle to prevent liver disease!