Liver and Gall Bladder Health
(Detoxification and Hepatic Support)

Because fat cannot be dissolved in water, a special system has evolved for its digestion and its absorption through the intestinal wall. Bile is an essential factor in this, since it contains substances that allow fats to be emulsified. It also stimulates the secretion of an enzyme concerned with the breakdown of fats. Bile is secreted by the liver and stored in the gallbladder until needed. The liver serves three main functions: (1) it detoxifies the body by filtering out bacterial byproducts, antigen-antibody complexes, and toxic compounds (cholesterol, drugs, pesticides, etc.) from the blood; (2) it produces and secretes bile; and (3) it helps the body metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Optimum liver function depends on adequate bile flow and healthy enzyme systems.

A well-balanced combination of nutrients such as vitamin B₁₂, lipotropic factors such as methionine and choline, which may provide support for normal fat metabolism; and herbal extracts such as celandine, cheonanthus, and barberry, which support liver function. Silymarin in Milk Thistle acts as an antioxidant many times more potent than vitamin E and vitamin C.  Artichoke extract has a long, successful history of liver support--particularly for those who are overweight or have used alcohol and/or drugs. Extracts of dandelion, which has a secretory function in the liver, and licorice, which enhances the immune system and promotes flow of bile and fat to and from the liver.