Maintaining optimal liver health is essential for overall well-being, especially when early signs can be easy to overlook. Paying attention to hepatitis symptoms can help you take a more proactive approach to supporting your body and preventing further strain on the liver. Alongside healthy lifestyle choices, many people are exploring liver-supporting supplements to help promote detoxification and protect the liver from inflammation.
What is Hepatitis?
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver and can interfere with its ability to function properly. There are several forms, each with different causes and contributing factors, but all can place stress on the body if not properly managed. While severity and progression can vary, recognizing hepatitis symptoms early is important for supporting liver health and preventing further complications.
It can be caused by one of the hepatitis viruses, medications or toxins. With respect to viral hepatitis, there are 6 types of viruses: A-E + G.
What Are The Different Types of Hepatitis?
Hepatitis A is an infection caused by contaminated food and water. It is usually only seen in North Americans who return from visiting tropical destinations where complete sanitation can often be lacking, and water quality may be poor.
It usually resolves itself in one to two months and does not become chronic or fatal, but it can make the person affected feel quite sick.
Hepatitis B-G is spread through contaminated blood, blood products or sexual contact. The first signs of these infections often occur several months after the infection. These viral types usually result in chronic liver inflammation that leads to liver damage and can be life-threatening.
Health Implications of Hepatitis
All kinds of hepatitis can have a large, negative impact on our health because the liver has an incredibly important role in detoxifying our bodies. The liver also produces enzymes, breaks down cholesterol, aids in digestion and makes and reduces hormones.
What Are The Symptoms Of Hepatitis
No matter the cause, hepatitis symptoms often start with fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. Soreness under the right ribs can be present.
Other possible symptoms are jaundice, muscle pain, headaches and hives, as well as a variety of digestive complaints, including gas, bloating, upset stomach, and diarrhea. On a blood test, liver enzymes are elevated; if infectious, viral particles can be found.
Supplements To Support Liver Health
Since hepatitis causes inflammation in the liver, it's important to support the liver while undergoing treatment from your health care practitioner.
The liver is the body’s main detoxifier and filter. Natural treatment of all liver conditions should include liver cleansing. Supplements that help cleanse the liver and reduce inflammation include:
- Milk Thistle
- SAMe
- Zinc
- Artichoke Leaf
Liver supportive foods should be consumed. They include artichokes, black radish, beets, carrots, spinach, sauerkraut, tomatoes and watercress. Make sure that you are getting enough water-soluble fibre in your diet, as found in apples, oats and supplemental inulin. They help to eliminate bile and toxins from the intestines. Avoid sugar, alcohol, red meat, trans-fatty acids and processed foods. They are difficult for the liver to process. Avoid high doses of niacin and vitamin A because they can raise liver enzymes.
