Chronic Inflammation & Illness's Affect on the Liver

The liver is our largest organ and has over 500 functions in the body (that we know of). It's essential for detox and aids in digestion by producing bile, which is needed to digest the fat we consume. It also plays a role in blood sugar regulation. and breaking down glycogen & insulin.

So, what if this vital organ is compromised?

Would you see it in other organ functions or your overall well being?

Well, yes, just not at first.

Most liver disorders are asymptomatic until they've reached later stages so addressing the root cause early is key.

Systemic inflammation and chronic illness both place extra burden on the liver. They are the fuel that ignites its disease. Studies have shown that 40% of those who have a chronic illness, such as diabetes, celiac, or a tick-borne disease such as Lyme, also have elevated liver enzymes. Left untreated, the systemic inflammation caused by illness can even lead to a serious inflammation of the liver called hepatitis, or contribute to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Fatty liver disease is present in 25% of the population, and is steadily increasing in rates, even in children.

We all know that diseases like Lyme cause widespread inflammation in the body that can affect virtually every organ. But, in addition, illnesses, such as Lyme, alter your immune system making you more sensitive to other viruses, bacteria, and even the development of other autoimmune diseases. Three things that perpetuate inflammation and wreak havoc on our liver.

I know what you're thinking, it runs in my family so I'm doomed. While genetics can account for up to 50% of liver conditions such as fatty liver disease and is compounded for those with the genetic component and illness, epigenetics can play a major role in warding off or even reversing genetics once the illness is under control.

So, where do you start?

First things first, give up the alcohol.

It is perceived as a toxin by the body, forcing the liver to work overtime. In addition, it is the leading cause of fatty liver disease, with or without a chronic illness piling on.

Second, maintain a healthy weight and if you are overweight, it's time to lose a little poundage.

Obesity is an invitation to numerous health conditions from insulin resistance and diabetes to liver disease. Coincidentally, conditions caused by obesity such as insulin resistance are precursors to liver disease due to the close proximity of the liver and pancreas to one another. One of the best diets for liver health is a low glycemic Mediterranean diet or AIP Mediterranean diet until systemic inflammation is reduced. Also, it’s important to move your body! You can start small with stretching and walks and build up from there.

Next, lay off the drugs.

Easier said than done when you have Lyme or another chronic illness causing you discomfort, but weigh your options. A liver taxed by man-made pharmaceuticals can't do its primary functions. I like to consider risk vs benefit in these scenarios.

In addition, watch your cholesterol.

While dietary cholesterol has little effect on serum cholesterol, we must still be mindful of what is allowed to deposit itself inside of our liver. Watch your serum cholesterol levels as you begin your healing journey. High levels are normally a sign of systemic inflammation and illness, not disease, so as you improve your health, it should reduce naturally.

Lastly, it may go without saying, but if your liver is your main detox organ, you need to get your toxin load in check.

Evaluate what you surround yourself with and put on. Household cleaners, candles, makeup, face creams, and so on. They are full of chemicals that the liver must try to break down. As you replace your products, look for safer options. I like Young Living and Beautycounter for this.

Your liver is one organ that you can't without it. Therefore, a little liver love from time to time is always a good idea. If you have systemic inflammation, which we all do to varying degrees, then you know it's already working harder than it should have too so why not say thank you once in a while with some fresh beets or an overnight castor oil pack.

Incorporating some of the foundations above from The Wellness Model™, will get your liver running more optimally and help keep those "not so great" symptoms you’ve been experiencing at bay.

Ready to take a deep dive into your health?

If so, then the Personalized Paleo program is for YOU. Not only will it reduce your systemic inflammation and improve liver function, it will help you determine which foods are sabotaging your healing.

Not sure how to start implementing a cleaner diet into you and your family’s day to day routine? Check out my friend and co-contributor to this blog, Jenna Huff, NTP, for easy meal time hacks that make supporting your health as easy as 1-2-3.