Over the years, many people have asked me about liver cleanses. In today’s world filled with toxins, our liver and gallbladder can really take a hit. Here’s a natural way to support your liver and cleanse it, though it might not be what you expect.
There are several natural remedies that claim to help with gallbladder stones and liver cleansing. A popular one is a high-fat drink made with olive oil, lemon or grapefruit juice, and Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate). The detox process involves eating apples or drinking apple juice for several days, then consuming Epsom salts in water, followed by large amounts of olive oil and citrus. The person then lies on their side, allowing the laxatives to work.
The theory is that this builds up bile in the gallbladder and then rapidly increases bile flow, supposedly flushing out gallstones. But is it effective?
To understand, we need to see how our liver and gallbladder operate. Our liver is crucial for detoxification. It handles over 500 functions necessary for survival, including producing bile, which is stored in the gallbladder. When we eat fats, the gallbladder releases bile salts to aid in digestion and remove waste.
Generally, we don’t think about our gallbladder until it causes issues like pain, nausea, or vomiting, often after eating. Women are twice as likely as men to develop gallstones, though over two-thirds of people with gallstones don’t experience symptoms. High-risk groups include pregnant women, diabetics, and those who lose weight rapidly. Gallstones can become dangerous if they block bile ducts, especially leading to the pancreas.
Conventional medicine typically resolves these issues with gallbladder removal surgery, but because the gallbladder is an important digestive organ, preserving it is preferable. Supporting our liver and gallbladder is essential. Opinions vary on liver cleanses—some argue the liver doesn’t need help detoxing, while others recommend cleansing protocols.
Do liver cleanses work, and what’s the best way? Besides the apple juice and olive oil method, popular options include detox supplements and pills. While there’s anecdotal evidence suggesting a gallbladder flush reduces stones, the process involves fasting and laxative use, which aids digestion by relieving bloating and constipation. Some people report improved gallbladder function; others experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, and sometimes, serious problems requiring surgery. Despite some assertions, there isn’t much solid research supporting these claims.
The idea probably arose from a 1999 opinion in The Lancet journal, describing a woman who consumed apple juice and olive oil and passed brown “stones.” However, examinations of such “stones” reveal they don’t match real gallstones, which consist of cholesterol derivatives. The cleanse products consist of fatty acids and potassium carboxylates, likely soap formed from oil and juice.
Ultimately, supporting our liver and gallbladder involves ongoing healthy habits, not quick fixes. Although the environment is full of toxins that can burden our body, activities like detox baths and minimizing toxin exposure help. Healthy foods are crucial as the liver can regenerate if we provide quality nutrients.
Coffee, for instance, can support liver health by lowering enzymes and inflammation, though moderation is key. Green tea, with less caffeine, also benefits the liver. Amino acids are vital for protein synthesis; good sources include grass-fed meats and dairy. Sometimes, a supplement helps fill in any gaps.
There are also beneficial herbs for liver and gallbladder support. Milk thistle, used for thousands of years, supports bile flow and detoxification but should be used cautiously with insulin. Dandelion leaf, often in recipes and teas, aids bile production and digestion, though not advisable for those with blocked ducts.
Artichoke leaf enhances bile flow and digestion, yet it’s unsuitable for blocked bile ducts or liver disease. Oregon grape root, another choice, boosts liver and bile function but should be sourced responsibly due to ecological concerns.
Other useful herbs include yellow dock, barberry, and turmeric, but researching and selecting appropriate ones for your needs is important. While generally safe, expert opinions vary, particularly for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. If there’s a concern about blockage, professional consultation is advisable.
Achieving liver wellness isn’t about clearing out gallstones instantly; it’s a gradual process supporting liver function and bile flow naturally. Do you have experience with liver flushes or have your ways to maintain liver health? Let me know!
