The gut and liver are intricately connected through the gut-liver axis. Dysbiosis (an imbalance in gut bacteria) can exacerbate liver inflammation. We may recommend fibre, probiotics, prebiotics, or other interventions to restore gut health. At Longév Clinic we have two formulas that combine evidence-based ingredients that help to address liver function and the gut-liver axis when dealing with non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
1. FIBRE COMPLEX rx ingredients:
| Flax Seed Powder | – The soluble fibre in flax seeds helps to feed beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a balanced gut microbiome – Insoluble fibre aids in regular bowel movements and prevents constipation – Lignans in flax seeds have antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the liver – Omega-3 fatty acids support liver function by reducing triglyceride levels and minimizing fatty liver risk |
| Chia Seeds | – The gel-like mucilage formed when chia seeds are hydrated soothes the digestive tract, supports gut lining integrity, and aids stool formation. – Soluble fibre enhances the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, fostering a healthy microbiome. – Omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds reduce liver inflammation and improve lipid profiles, aiding in the prevention of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) |
| Inulin | – Inulin is a powerful prebiotic, feeding beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus – This helps maintain a healthy gut environment and reduces dysbiosis – It supports regular bowel movements by increasing stool bulk – By reducing systemic inflammation and improving gut barrier integrity, inulin decreases the burden of endotoxins on the liver, promoting detoxification and overall liver health |
| Larch (FibreAid) | – Arabinogalactans serve as prebiotics, stimulating the growth of beneficial gut bacteria – Supports the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which nourish colon cells and reduce inflammation – By improving gut barrier function, larch fibre reduces the transfer of toxins from the gut to the liver, lowering the risk of liver inflammation and overload |
| Psyllium Husk Powder | – Psyllium is excellent for regulating bowel movements, addressing both constipation and diarrhea – It acts as a gentle bulk-forming fibre, improving stool consistency and gut motility – Psyllium binds to bile acids, aiding in their excretion and reducing liver cholesterol load – It helps manage blood sugar levels, indirectly supporting liver health by reducing metabolic stress |
| Prune Powder | – Prunes have natural, gentle laxative properties due to their high sorbitol and insoluble fibre content, which enhance bowel regularity – They provide antioxidants that support gut lining integrity and reduce inflammation – Phenolic compounds in prunes have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that support liver detoxification and combat oxidative stress |
2. Liver RX Ingredients:
| Milk Thistle | – renowned for its liver-protective properties, thanks to its active flavonoid complex, silymarin – Acts as a powerful antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress – Promotes liver cell regeneration, particularly in conditions like cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis – Protects against toxin-induced liver damage, including damage from environmental pollutants and medications. – For individuals with NAFLD, milk thistle may reduce inflammation and improve markers of liver function. |
| Burdock | – Acting as a diuretic to help eliminate toxins through the kidneys. – Stimulating bile flow, which aids in digestion and the breakdown of fats – Supports liver and skin health – Burdock’s bitter properties can also enhance digestive efficiency, a crucial factor in managing metabolic issues associated with NAFLD |
| Calcium D-Glucarate | – Supports the liver’s ability to conjugate and eliminate toxins – Helps reduce the reabsorption of toxins in the gut by inhibiting beta-glucuronidase activity – This ingredient ensures the liver can efficiently clear harmful substances, reducing the toxic burden often seen in NAFLD patients – Key player in phase II liver detoxification |
| Artichoke Extract | – Increases bile production and promotes its flow from the liver to the intestines – Supports digestion, alleviates sluggish liver function, and reduces cholesterol levels – These actions are vital for individuals with NAFLD, as bile flow aids in the emulsification and elimination of fats |
| Dandelion Root | – Stimulates bile production (choleretic) and promotes bile flow (cholagogue) – Acts as a mild laxative, aiding in the elimination of waste products – Supports digestion and metabolic health. – Comprehensive actions make it an excellent choice for liver detoxification and fat metabolism – a traditional liver tonic |
| Yellow Dock | – Clearing the lymphatic system, supporting detoxification – Enhancing bile flow, which aids in fat digestion and constipation relief – Addressing chronic skin conditions and iron deficiencies, often linked to liver dysfunction – For NAFLD patients, yellow dock’s astringent and anti-inflammatory properties further support liver health |
| L-Methionine | – Essential amino acid that supports the breakdown of fats, preventing their accumulation in the liver – Serves as a precursor to cysteine, a key component of glutathione—the liver’s master antioxidant – L-methionine’s role in detoxification and fat metabolism makes it indispensable in addressing NAFLD |
| Choline | – Vital nutrient for liver health and acts as a methyl donor, facilitating the movement of fats out of the liver – Supports liver repair and prevents fat buildup, reducing the risk of steatosis – Improves lipid profiles, addressing hypercholesterolemia and other metabolic issues – Choline deficiency is closely linked to the development of NAFLD, making supplementation critical |
| Broccoli Seed Extract | – Activates phase II detoxification enzymes, enhancing the liver’s ability to neutralize toxins – Provides potent antioxidant support, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress – Sulforaphane’s role in promoting natural detoxification pathways makes it a powerful ally in managing NAFLD |
By addressing both gut and liver health, these supplements work synergistically to combat NAFLD, supporting the body’s natural ability to detoxify and repair. Consult Longév Clinic to learn more about how tailored nutrition and supplementation can optimize your health.
