Best Liver Support Supplements – A Functional Medicine Perspective

Supporting the liver is key to foundational health, as the liver is a vital organ responsible for detoxifying the body, producing bile to aid in digestion, storing nutrients, and regulating glucose levels. Maintaining liver health is crucial for overall well-being, and liver support is an important step before moving to any detoxification treatment or protocol. While a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are the best ways to support liver health, some supplements may also offer benefits. Below are some the best ways to support liver health via supplementation.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is a popular herb used to support liver health. Its active ingredient, silymarin, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect liver cells from damage caused by free radicals. Milk thistle has been shown to improve liver function tests in people with liver diseases, including hepatitis and cirrhosis.

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) is an amino acid that the body uses to produce glutathione, a potent antioxidant that helps protect the liver from damage. NAC has been shown to improve liver function in people with liver diseases and reduce the risk of liver damage caused by drugs and toxins.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect liver cells from damage caused by free radicals. Studies have shown that vitamin E supplementation can improve liver function tests in people with liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce liver inflammation and improve liver function. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation can improve liver function tests in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Dandelion Root

Dandelion root is a herb that has been traditionally used to support liver health. Dandelion root contains antioxidants and has diuretic properties that can help flush toxins from the liver. Studies have shown that dandelion root supplementation can improve liver function in people with liver diseases, including hepatitis.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine that contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that turmeric supplementation can reduce liver inflammation and improve liver function in people with liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

In conclusion, while a healthy diet and lifestyle are crucial for maintaining liver health, supplements such as those listed above can also offer benefits. In addition to these supplements, the providers at Phoenix Rising Integrative Medicine also offer liver support through acupuncture and herbal formulas.