There are always times when we overindulge. Rich foods high in fats, sugar and salt plus lots of alcohol can take their toll, and while it can be fun to let our hair down and indulge in a little excess, this can wreak havoc with our liver and digestive systems.
So what can we do to stay healthy during the party season?
KEEPING YOUR LIVER HEALTHY
A sluggish liver can result in digestive problems, hormonal imbalances, bloating, fatigue and skin problems to name just a few issues. Our liver performs more vital roles in the body than any other organ so it is essential to look after it. Luckily, nature provides us with some fantastic herbs to protect it with most medical herbalists agreeing that milk thistle (silybum marianum) comes out tops.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Milk thistle contains an important flavonoid known as silymarin, which has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and is thought to be responsible for many of its health benefits.
BENEFITS
DETOX
Milk thistle has a protective action on the liver and may be hugely beneficial in counteracting the effects of toxins, especially alcohol. Research has indicated that people suffering from alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis benefit, while the herb also appears to improve overall function of the liver and may even increase life expectancy for those with chronic liver disease such as hepatitis C.
LIVER FUNCTION
Milk thistle may help the liver to repair itself by stimulating the production of new liver cells. It must be noted, however, that it cannot repair a cirrhosed liver but may help improve function of any remaining healthy cells. It works really well when combined with other liver herbs such as artichoke and dandelion.
CHOLESTEROL
Milk thistle also appears to lower ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol helping to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. In addition, it may be useful for people suffering from type II diabetes by helping to reduce blood sugar levels; research has shown that milk thistle helps to improve insulin resistance, which is of key importance for diabetes sufferers.
SAFETY
Milk thistle is generally regarded as safe and very few side effects have been reported. Not enough is known as to whether it is safe to use in pregnancy so it should therefore be avoided. There is also a possibility that milk thistle may react with some medication so always consult your GP before starting a course.
