Many liver problems have tiredness as a key
symptom. Other indicators that your liver may not be functioning properly
include:
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you feel tired and unrefreshed when you wake up
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your energy levels fluctuate throughout the day,
with your tiredness becoming worse around mid-morning and/or mid-afternoon
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you're finding it difficult to lose weight
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you have more allergies and intolerances to foods,
cleaning products and chemicals
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you have problems digesting fatty/creamy/oily
foods and they can make you feel unwell or even nauseous
What is liver congestion and how does it
contribute to chronic tiredness?
The liver has many roles within our body and is
the hardest working organ we have. However, if you have liver congestion or a
general problem with the liver's function, there are two main reasons that you
may experience chronic tiredness.
Firstly, the liver is our main detoxification
organ and coordinates the excretion of most wastes and toxins from the body.
Along with the kidneys, it filters and cleanses the blood. It produces bile,
one of the main carriers of toxins out of the body. And, it converts fat
soluble toxins into a water soluble form so they can be released through the
kidneys (via urine) or colon (via bile). Therefore, if the liver becomes
congested - either from a high level of toxins in the body or because bile
flow is blocked or reduced - there will be a build-up of wastes and toxins in
the blood stream polluting the body's fluids and tissues. The other
eliminative organs (kidneys, lung, skin) will increase their elimination
capacity, but usually this isn't enough to clear the backlog of wastes and
toxins. This situation will commonly lead to an increase in general tiredness
and sluggishness. It usually also leads to a number of other symptoms,
including skin problems, respiratory problems and weight gain. This is why
people who follow a detoxification programme often experience an improvement
in their energy; their skin clears and they lose weight.
Secondly, the liver is involved in carbohydrate
metabolism. It's especially important in maintaining a normal blood glucose
level. When blood glucose levels are low, the liver can break down glycogen
(the glucose stored in muscle and liver cells) into glucose and release it
into the bloodstream for instant energy. The liver can also convert proteins
and fatty acids into energy. Therefore, if the liver's function is
compromised, your blood sugar will fluctuate, leading to episodic tiredness,
especially around mid-morning and/or mid-afternoon.
Now you know the two main ways that liver
congestion or problems with the liver's function can contribute to tiredness.
So what can you do about it?
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Did you know that there are a number of standard
testing procedures that can show you the presence of liver disease and
congestion?
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Did you know that there are a number of tests
through specialised laboratories that can measure the liver's detoxification
capacity?
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Did you know that herbal medicine, nutrients and
certain lifestyle practices are the most effective way to restore the liver to
health?
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Did you know that many of our common every day
habits and practices cause further problems for the liver and rob us of energy?
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Did you know that there are certain foods that can
restore the liver's function and help you regain your energy?
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Did you know that by improving the liver's
function, you are likely to lose weight and help clear your skin at the same
time?
You can find out all about these tests and
remedies as well as a full list of symptoms linked to liver congestion in our
e-book Why
Do I Feel Tired?
Written by naturopath/nutritionist
Alison Cassar and professional health writer Michelle Fahy, this e-book
examines over 16 conditions (including liver congestion) that may be
contributing to your tiredness. The book explores each topic in detail and
helps you to discover the underlying causes of your tiredness so you can
reclaim your energy and live the life you were meant to live.
Most people are unaware of how good they are
capable of feeling. There's no need for you to be one of these people! Find
out what is likely to be behind your tiredness and get off the merry-go-round
of chronic tiredness.
Click here
to learn more about this comprehensive e-book and to order your copy.