In the article Learn Your Liver, we learned basics about the liver, including its main functions performed in the body.

Here we will explore how life today affects the ability of the liver to do its job. The focus will be on its primary role — detoxification.

The liver filters your blood to remove toxins. It uses a two-phase enzymatic process to break down chemicals. In phase one, toxins are neutralised and broken into smaller fragments. During phase two, these fragments are bound to other molecules, creating a new non-toxic molecule that can be eliminated in bile, urine, or stool.

Phases of Liver DetoxificationWhat makes the detoxification process so difficult is the toxic load you are subjected to on a daily basis. These toxins accumulate in the body, placing a significant load on the liver.

In its Fourth National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] analysed American exposure to environmental chemicals. It found the average American has 212 chemicals in his/her blood and urine. Chemicals found include:

• Arsenic
• Plastics (like BPA)
• Triclosan
• Perfluorinated chemicals [from non-stick cookware]
• Fire retardants
• Perchlorates
• Volatile organic compounds [cosmetics, carpets, paints, air fresheners, and countless other consumer products]

The extent of this environmental pollution is so far reaching that the Environmental Working Group [EWG] has found an average of 200 industrial chemicals and pollutants found in in the umbilical cord blood of new-born infants.

This is a tremendous challenge to your liver and your health.