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Cirrhosis of the liver occurs when severe damage has been done to
the liver, weakening its capability to function normally. The most
common origin of liver cirrhosis in the United States is chronic
alcoholism. Cirrhosis can also be caused from a chronic viral
infection of the liver (hepatitis types B, C, and D) or an inherited
disease, such as cystic fibrosis, hemochromatosis, and Wilson’s
disease.
Nutritional supplements that may be helpful
for cirrhosis of the liver
S-adenosylmethionine
(SAMe) taken in large doses may help with survival and liver
function in alcoholic liver cirrhosis. In a double-blind trial, SAMe
greatly reduced the overall death rate and need for liver
transplants in people with less advanced alcoholic liver cirrhosis.
Another preliminary trial proposed that smaller doses of SAMe can
help liver function, giving patients 180 mg per day done in one
trial and 800 mg per day in a different trial. SAMe has reversed
glutathione depletion, an antioxidant needed for liver function. It
also helped the resolution of blocked bile flow, called cholestasis,
which is a complication common with liver
cirrhosis.
L-ornithine-L-aspartate (OA) has been researched
to treat cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy. A double-blind trial
showed considerable progress in liver function, mental status, and
brain function when participants were treated with 18 grams per day
of OA for 14 days. Progress was also seen when injections of OA were
used.
Although trial research is lacking, L-carnitine
injections have shown to help circulation to liver with cirrhosis
patients.
Vitamin E can
help reduce damage in cirrhotic livers and can lower the immune
defects that aid in the progression of the
disease.
Herbs that may be helpful in treating liver
cirrhosis
Bupleurum, a Chinese herb, is an element
of the supplement sho-saiko-to. A preliminary trial showed
sho-saiko-to lowered the risk of cancer in participants with liver
cirrhosis when they took 2.5 grams three times each day.
The
extract of milk thistle
high in a flavonoid compound known as silymarin, can increase liver
function and survival in patients with cirrhosis. In clinical
trials, silymarin (420 to 600mg per day) increased liver function
tests and defended liver cells against oxidative damage to those
with liver disease related to alcohol.
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