Alternative therapy for the liver

An HSI member named J.H. recently posted an item on the HSI Forum, asking other members for advice with this question:

“I have a friend recently diagnosed with NASH disease which affects the liver and can lead to other complications. Are there any supplements or alternative therapies anyone has heard about? “

NASH disease – or “non-alcoholic steatohepatitis” – is a condition in which an excessive amount of fat accumulates in the liver. The first half of its name, “non-alcoholic,” addresses the fact that the disease is indistinguishable from alcoholic hepatitis. NASH disease is a poorly understood condition that occurs primarily in women, especially those who have diabetes or are overweight. The fat content of the liver can usually be quickly reduced with weight reduction. But there are other methods of addressing the problem, and for those I’ll turn to a couple of Forum responses to J.H.’s question.

Olive writes, “Thysillin has long been known as an herbal support for the liver. We have utilized Natures Way 2x standardized extract. Should be available at your health food store.” And to that, Leppert adds, “Yes, milk thistle is the traditional favorite and really works.”

Thanks to Olive and Leppert for their $.02, and we hope that J.H.’s friend is feeling better soon.

Do you have comments, questions or suggestions that you’d like to share? We’re always interested to know what you’re thinking. Just click into the HSI Forum on our website (www.hsionline.com) and add your voice to this and other health care discussions.

To Your Good Health,

Jenny Thompson
Health Sciences Institute