6 signs that your liver is in trouble

Liver health is often overlooked, but it really shouldn’t be. The liver is responsible for over 500 different functions, and when it’s unhealthy, our overall health is affected as well. 

Written by Bel Marra Health
Published on December 29, 2016

Unfortunately, the symptoms of a liver problem aren’t as clear-cut as the signs of other ailments. While aching stiff joints may indicate a joint problem, or chest pain makes you think about your heart health, liver conditions are manifested differently, so it’s important to be aware of the common symptoms that may prompt you to get your liver checked out.

Below are six symptoms associated with liver disease that you should never ignore.

6 symptoms of liver disease

Yellow skin: This one you may have heard of before, and it’s known as jaundice. The skin will have a yellowish color as a result of a bilirubin buildup in the blood. When the liver is diseased, it has a hard time breaking down bilirubin, so higher amounts of this compound will end up in the blood.

Change in urine or stool color: Just as the skin can appear a different color, so can your stool or urine. Your urine may be dark and your stool pale.

Itchiness: Although there is no visible rash in sight, your skin may feel itchy all over as a result of liver disease.

 Unexplained bruising: In liver disease, bruising occurs far easier as the production of proteins essential for blood clotting slows down or is stopped altogether.

Swelling: Poor liver function causes water retention in the abdomen and legs, so patients may find these areas swollen.

No symptoms: Unfortunately, sometimes liver problems will not present any symptoms, and when the symptoms do appear it may often be at the advanced stages of the disease. Research has shown that nearly half of liver disease patients do not present any symptoms or symptoms are very non-specific such as fatigue, tiredness, lack of drive, and only occasional itchiness.

If you suspect your liver isn’t working as it should, or if you have risk factors for liver disease such as obesity or excessive alcohol consumption, speak to your doctor about ways to slow down its progression and treat your liver.

Related: What causes liver pain after drinking?

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• What the color of your urine means
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https://www.belmarrahealth.com/6-signs-liver-trouble/

Foods that help liver regeneration

Did you know there are foods that can help promote liver regeneration? Did you also know the liver is the only organ in the body which can regenerate? It’s true. You may have heard that a starfish can grow back a missing limb, and lizards can grow back their tails; similarly, if a part of the liver is damaged it can partake in liver regeneration.

Written by Dr. Victor Marchione
Published on September 14, 2015

In a study published in The Journal of Biological Chemistry researchers uncovered that liver regeneration functions much simpler than once believed. In the past it was shown that cells which are part of regeneration act as they would if they were in an embryo. In the fairly recent study scientists uncovered specific proteins that induce regeneration. They felt that by being able to stimulate such proteins they would be able to better help those with severe liver damage or those who have had portions of their liver removed.

After extensive testing, the scientists uncovered that previous theories of cells acting as they would in embryos was actually not true, but rather liver regeneration occurs due to an increase in cells which multiply through regular cell division. Therefore, researchers believe stimulating liver regeneration is possible by activating identified proteins.

Foods useful for liver regeneration process

Although the liver is able to regenerate itself, it’s important you keep it healthy and eat foods which can further help promote liver regeneration. The following foods can help boost liver health as well as function.

Garlic: Garlic has been shown to help reduce bad cholesterol which is associated with poor liver health; eating garlic regularly can help promote good liver health. Enzymes in garlic also help the liver remove toxins, contributing to a healthier body overall.

Grapefruit: Grapefruit is packed with powerful antioxidants and fiber. Grapefruit can contribute to good cholesterol and boost the liver-cleansing process. One word of caution is that grapefruit can negatively interact with medications, so speak to a doctor before incorporating grapefruit into your diet.

Leafy green vegetables: Spinach, broccoli and kale are just some examples of leafy green vegetables. Leafy green vegetables all work to assist your liver in the cleansing process and help improve its function. Furthermore, they provide the body with chlorophyll which protects the body from toxins.

Avocados: Avocados pack nearly 20 essential nutrients and vitamins; not only are they good for your body, but they feed your liver all the right stuff. Avocados can help neutralize free radicals as well as promote the production of glutathione which helps with toxin removal.

Apples: We know apples are good for overall health; you should continue with your apple-a-day trend as they can help promote liver cleansing and remove toxins in the digestive tract.

Brussels sprouts: Brussels sprouts are similar to garlic because they also contain sulfur, so that alone is enough to promote a healthier liver. Furthermore, Brussels sprouts contain antioxidants which fight free radical damage. For maximum benefits cook Brussels sprouts with garlic for an optimal liver-cleaning meal.

Other foods for liver regeneration

Aside from the above mentioned foods, there are others which can keep the liver healthy, promote liver cleansing and ensure you stay the healthiest you can be. The next time you opt for a meal or a snack make sure you also add these foods into your diet for a healthy liver.

• Bitter gourd
• Probiotic yogurt
• Onions
• Lemon
• Berries
• Arugula
• Artichokes
• Leeks

How proteins may help in liver regeneration

Similar to the previous research mentioned, scientist at UC Davis further explored the use of proteins in liver regeneration. The identified protein is called PPARα and in mice models they found it to work quite quickly in liver regenerations.

What the researchers did uncover, though, is to boost PPARα in humans for quicker liver regeneration we require protein fibroblast factor 21 (FGF21). Author of the paper Yu-Jui Yvonne Wan said, “We found that FGF21 is a good rescuing molecule that facilitates liver regeneration and perhaps tissue repair. Our data suggests that FGF21 could help with liver regeneration, either after removal or after damage caused by alcohol or a virus.”

Through testing the researchers found that PPARα was more effective in liver regeneration in mice livers than in human ones. What they did find was that by adding FGF21, liver regeneration was boosted by making PPARα more effective. FGF21 is also beneficial in reducing insulin resistance, accelerating fat metabolism and reducing fatty liver disease in some animals.

Wan added, “We found that FGF21 is a good rescuing molecule that facilitates liver regeneration and perhaps tissue repair. Our data suggests that FGF21 could help with liver regeneration, either after removal or after damage caused by alcohol or a virus.”

Cell fundamental for liver regeneration found

Although it has been established that proteins work to promote liver regeneration, as of late more findings suggest a cell, too, is fundamental for liver regeneration.

Published in the journal Cell researchers uncovered cells called hybrid hepatocytes which are able to generate new tissues. By exposing mice to toxins researchers observed the role of hybrid hepatocytes. What they found was cancer did not develop in the new cells which were created by the hybrid hepatocytes. This prompted the researchers to further explore opportunities of hybrid hepatocytes.

Until science is capable of fully regenerating livers it’s important to maintain the health of yours as best as you can. Waiting lists for liver transplants are extremely long, so in order to keep your name off the list, enjoy the foods listed above which can promote a healthy liver and a healthy you.

SOURCE: 

http://www.boldsky.com/health/nutrition/2013/effective-foods-for-liver-regenerationr
http://www.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu/publish/news
http://www.eurostemcell.org/factsheet/regeneration-what-does-it-mean-and-how-does-it-work
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases

https://www.belmarrahealth.com/foods-that-help-liver-regeneration/

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Getting rid of eye floaters: Home remedies and exercise

Eye floaters are spots moving through your field of vision. They may appear black or grey, stringy or cobweb-like, they may move, drift, or dart when you move your eyes. Many eye floaters are brought on by age-related changes in the eyes – for example, when the jellylike substance of the eye becomes liquefied. If eye floaters appear and increase quickly or suddenly, you should see an eye specialist right away.

Written by Devon Andre
Published on January 8, 2017

There are many different reasons for eye floaters. Some are harmless and others require immediate medical attention. The following natural remedies may help you get rid of eye floaters.

Home remedies for eye floaters

Below are some home remedies to get rid of eye floaters:

Relax: Sometimes, when your eyes are tired or strained, it can contribute to eye floaters, so getting some good rest is imperative.

Give yourself a massage: Massage your temples gently while your eyes are closed and covered with a warm cloth. You can also rub your hands together to generate heat and place them over your eyelids.

Do some eye exercises: Roll your eyes in circular motions clockwise, then counter-clockwise. Repeat a few times a day. Another exercise is to hold an object (for example, a pen) in front of you as far away as possible. Focus on the object and slowly bring it closer to your face – about six inches away. Repeat moving it further and closer a few times.

Limit TV and screen time: Prolonged screen time can harm your eyes.

Drink plenty of water: Water can help detox the body, as eye floaters may be indicative of a toxin accumulation.

Eat antioxidant-rich foods: Foods high in antioxidants can help fight off free radical damage (which can lead to eye floaters). Antioxidant-rich foods include blueberries, kale, pomegranate, oranges, and strawberries.

Eat taurine-rich foods: Eating foods high in taurine can help support healthy vision. Examples include meat and seafood.

Do yoga: Yoga can reduce stress, and many of the movements require your eyes to be closed which can help them rest.

Use sunglasses: Wearing sunglasses can protect your eyes from UV rays that are harmful for your eyes.

Sleep well: Getting proper sleep will ensure that your eyes are not strained or tired.

Other treatments for eye floaters

In cases where medical treatment is required to treat eye floaters, some options are:

• Using a laser to disrupt the floaters, breaking them up, and making them less noticeable
• Removing the vitreous humor surgically

For the most part, you will have to continue monitoring your eye floaters to ensure they are not worsening and impacting your vision. Follow-up appointments are necessary to ensure no other complications have developed.

You should see a doctor immediately if you get more eye floaters, there is a sudden onset of new eye floaters, you begin to see flashes of light, and if you experience peripheral vision loss (side vision loss). These symptoms could signify a retinal tear or retinal detachment, which could contribute to vision loss if not taken care of right away.

Eye exercises and self-acupressure for eye floaters

You may have heard of the traditional Chinese medicine of acupressure, which involves applying pressure to points in the body to boost circulation and promote healing. This treatment is similar to acupuncture, but instead of using fine needles, fingers target the healing points.

Acupressure for eye health is an effective natural way to improve eyesight – and you can easily perform it on yourself.

There are seven acupressure points around the eye to focus on. They start at the corner of your eye – closest to your nose – and continue across the brow, ending underneath your eyelid. Massaging each point for at least 10 seconds will increase circulation to the eyes.

In Chinese medicine, energy meridians run along the body and connect certain parts together. So another effective pressure point for your eye health is the tip of your thumbs. By massaging this point, you can target areas in the neck in order to boost circulation to the eyes. Massaging both your thumbs regularly can lead to brighter, clearer eyesight. You can achieve similar results by massaging your big toe.

Acupressure is easy to perform and can be done daily – all you need is a few spare minutes to improve your eyesight.

There are a variety of exercises for your eyes. For starters, you can blink. Every time you blink, you create moisture, which in turn soothes the eyes. If you start feeling some eye strain, simply blink continuously for four to five seconds.

Other forms of exercise are breathing or meditation, often easier to do first thing in the morning or at the end of the day. By closing your eyes and focusing on your breathing, you can recharge. Inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth for at least two minutes, then open your eyes without focusing on anything in particular. Repeat at least three times.

Giving your eyes a break is a great way to improve eyesight. Just remember to avoid eyestrain by looking away from your computer screen, for example, and don’t watch too much television.

What to avoid if you have eye floaters

When living with eye floaters you should avoid the following:

• Using the computer or watching TV in the dark
• Watching a lot of movies
• Reading in poor light
• Wearing sunglasses for long periods of time

You should also avoid stressful situations and emotional turmoil. If you are a smoker, quit. If you don’t smoke, avoid secondhand smoke. Moderating your alcohol intake is always good idea.

Related: How to get rid of red bloodshot eyes naturally

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What causes liver pain?

Determining what causes liver pain can be difficult, considering that the brain perceives abdominal pain from many organs in what experts call an “ill-defined” way. Still, advances in medicine have helped the medical community come to a better understanding of what causes pain in the liver area.

Written by Bel Marra Health
Published on June 1, 2017

Research tells us that the liver’s pain receptors are located on the organ’s surface, and the pressure a person feels when they experience liver pain is likely from a capsule that covers the organ. The pain is usually felt in the upper right part of the abdomen. Often, people who experience discomfort complain about pain right under their rib cage. No matter what the causes of pain in the liver might be, the condition typically involves swelling, inflammation, or enlargement of the liver. Injury can lead to liver pain, but some causes of liver pain can be linked to various disorders.

People often confuse liver pain with other abdominal pain, but again, actual liver pain is signified by discomfort in the upper right abdomen. There are still some situations where right upper quadrant pain is caused by gallstones or pancreatitis. It is important to see a doctor to get a proper assessment.

What causes pain in liver area?

The causes of liver pain continue to be studied and, sadly, statistics show that liver disease is a common problem. The American Liver Foundation estimates that one in 10 people are impacted by liver disease.

The liver is one of the largest organs in the body and it performs an important function. It converts nutrients from our diet into substances that the body can use or store. The liver also gathers toxic substances and aids in releasing those substances from the body. When the liver is under stress for any reason, it can be very uncomfortable and dangerous.

Here’s a close look at the different potential causes of liver pain:

Cirrhosis

This is a condition that occurs when the liver cells and tissues deteriorate, impacting the function of the organ. A viral infection or excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to cirrhosis. Hepatitis B, C, and D have also been associated with liver cirrhosis.

Liver cancer

A liver tumor can cause pain in the abdominal area. Medical screening usually detects it. The pain is often constant and dull, but sometimes it can be sharp pain. Rates of liver cancer are increasing in the U.S due to the rise in the cases of cirrhosis caused by hepatitis C and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. There is a cancer that can develop in the ducts of the liver called cholangiocarcinoma.

Fatty liver disease

This is caused by an accumulation of too much fat in the liver cells and it is usually a result of poor diet. Does fatty liver disease cause pain? The answer is yes, but in many cases, the pain is mild. The condition does include a lot of other unpleasant symptoms, including fatigue, loss of appetite, and even confusion. Alcohol abuse can lead to fatty liver disease but so can infections, toxins, and obesity.

Liver cysts

When fluid builds up in the liver, a cyst can form. Pain is only experienced when the cyst is chronic. The discomfort is usually felt at the top of the abdomen and tip of the right shoulder. The exact cause is unknown.

Hemochromatosis

This happens when excessive iron deposits damage the liver along with other organs. Hemochromatosis can lead to fatal hepatitis and cirrhosis.

Wilson’s disease

Excessive copper building up within the liver causes Wilson’s disease. It is a disease that is incurable and can cause a lot of health complications.

Enlarged spleen

When the liver experiences infections, the spleen can become enlarged. This puts pressure on the liver.

Reye syndrome

This is a rare and serious condition that leads to swelling in the liver and brain. It most often impacts children and teenagers who have had a viral infection such as the flu or chickenpox. Confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness have been experienced with Reye syndrome. According to the Mayo Clinic, aspirin has been linked to this syndrome. Children recovering from flu-like symptoms or the chickenpox should not take aspirin.

Hepatitis

There are different types of hepatitis, but it generally refers to inflammation of the liver. It is often caused by a viral infection, but it can also be the result of ingesting toxins, from drinking too much alcohol, or the result of taking certain drugs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about 4.4 million Americans have chronic hepatitis and many more people don’t even realize they have the condition.

Excessive alcohol consumption

Excessive drinking has long been linked to liver problems. Over time, heavy drinkers can experience scarring and cirrhosis along with many visible symptoms including fatigue, poor appetite, fluid build-up in the abdomen and the legs, yellow colored skin (jaundice), red spider-like blood vessels on the skin, impotence, and confusion. When cirrhosis progresses to end-stage liver disease, a liver transplant may be required.

Hepatic artery occlusion

A block in the flow of blood through the liver organ. It can be caused by thrombosis, a blood clot due to hypercoagulability disorder, severe atherosclerosis, or vasculitis. It can also be the result of an embolus, which is a free floating blood clot that travels from another part of the body and becomes lodged in the hepatic vasculature. Symptoms usually present when cell damage due to restricted blood supply occurs. Symptoms may include right upper quadrant, fever, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice.

Portal vein thrombosis

Occurring due to blockage of the portal vein: the vein that supplies blood to the liver from the spleen, stomach, pancreas, and intestines. This blockage causes pressure in the portal vein to increase, called portal hypertension, which can cause the spleen to enlarge. These dilated veins can bleed profusely. Blockage of the portal vein can also lead to fluid accumulation in the abdomen.

Pyogenic liver abscess

A pocket of pus that forms in the liver due to bacterial infection. Pus is composed of white blood cells and dead cells that typically form when your body fights an infection. Normally, the body drains the infection, but in the case of an abscess, the pus collects in a pocket inside the liver. Abscesses are usually accompanied by swelling and inflammation and can cause pain and swelling in the abdomen. Pyogenic liver abscesses can be fatal and should be treated right away.

Cholestasis

A condition where the flow of bile (digestive fluid produced by the liver) is impaired at some point between the liver cells and a segment of the intestine. Bile is subsequently absorbed by the body instead of being excreted into the digestive system, leading to an increase of the substance bilirubin in the blood stream. Symptoms of cholestasis include jaundice, dark urine, light-colored stool, and generalized itchiness.

Hepatic cysts

A relatively common occurrence in the liver but can be a sign of a more serious health issue. Cysts are thin-walled sacs filled with air, fluid, or semi-solid material. Symptoms generally depend on the cause and may include bloating, pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, and poor appetite.

Liver condition pain can be treated depending on the cause. In many cases, a patient’s diet will be examined. The liver does have some ability to repair itself if we are kind to it. Research on the livers of mice has shown that inadequate protein can lead to a decrease in liver volume and that adequate protein added back into the diet can reverse some damage.

Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and lowering cholesterol, are good ways to protect your liver. While some people may be advised to take medication to treat liver pain, it is advisable not to self-medicate. For instance, over-the-counter painkillers such as acetaminophen can react negatively in people with liver problems.

Related: What causes liver pain after drinking?

https://www.belmarrahealth.com/causes-liver-pain/