Naturopathic Treatments For Alcohol Related Liver Disease (ARLD)

We all know there can be serious consequences to having too much of anything.

This is especially true when it comes to alcohol.

While for most people, a drink to unwind after work, or Sunday brunch mimosas aren’t going to be a cause for concern, some individuals can, and do, drink to excess.

And for these people, excessive use of alcohol can result in irreversible damage.

As a naturopathic doctor in Toronto, I want to make you aware of the harms which can be related to over-indulgence of alcohol and some of the natural ways you can keep your liver healthy.

Keep reading to learn more.

What Is Alcohol Related Liver Disease (ARLD)?

Over time, years of excessive alcohol use and abuse can lead to alcohol related liver disease.

The liver becomes swollen and inflamed, and this can lead to cirrhosis.

Left untreated, alcohol related liver disease can be fatal.

Phases Of Alcohol Related Liver Disease (ARLD)

There are three phases of alcohol related liver disease, and the damage gets worse as ease stage progresses.

The three phases are:

1. Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

In this phase of alcohol related liver disease, fat accumulates around the liver.

This accumulation can be reversed by stopping drinking.

2. Acute Alcoholic Hepatitis

In this stage, overuse and abuse of alcohol can lead to inflammation of the liver.

In less severe cases, this can be reversed through treatment, however in the most severe cases it can lead to liver failure.

3. Alcoholic Cirrhosis

The gravest form of alcohol related liver disease, cirrhosis occurs when the liver is scarred from alcohol abuse.

Once cirrhosis has occurred, the damage cannot be reversed.

Liver failure is often the result of cirrhosis.

ARLD Symptoms

In some cases, alcohol related liver disease will not show symptoms until the disease is in the advanced stages, however in others there will be symptoms earlier.

Some things to watch for include:

• Bleeding gums
• Nausea
• Disorientation
• Decreased appetite
• Easily agitated
• Jaundice
• Fainting
• Tiredness
• digestive issues including dark bowel movements
• Redness of the hands and/or feet
• Edema in the legs and abdomen
• Thirst
• Weight loss

What Causes ARLD?

Alcohol related liver disease is caused by drinking too much alcohol, and certain factors can increase your risk of developing it.

These include:

• Binge drinking
• Family history of alcohol related liver disease
• Poor nutrition
• Drug use
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Certain medications

Naturopathic Treatments For Alcohol Related Liver Disease

If you are experiencing the symptoms of alcohol related liver disease, and believe you may be at risk, there are a number of naturopathic treatment options.

Let’s have a look at some of these.

1. First Of All, Avoid Alcohol And Drugs

Excessive alcohol intake is closely linked to fatty liver disease.

Consistent consumption of alcohol can cause harm to liver cells.

Although there are levels of alcohol considered to be in a “safe” or “healthy” range for most adults, if you have known issues related to your liver, completely eliminating it is a smart decision.

2. Try A Liver Detox Diet – Eat These Foods

Adding anti-inflammatory, liver supporting foods to your diet can help support liver health.

Some great options to add, include:

• Cucumber
• Cauliflower
• Beets
• Broccoli
• Asparagus
• Celery
• Kale, spinach and other leafy greens
• Cabbage
• Brussel sprouts
• Carrots
• Herbs, such as mint, cilantro, and basil

For more guidance a liver or full body detox, a naturopathic doctor can help.

3. …And Avoid These Foods

In addition to eating the right foods, avoiding foods which can put undue stress on the liver is also important.

Some things to avoid include:

• Spicy foods
• Caffeine, including coffee, tea, and pop
• Sugar
• Fried foods
• Gluten and other refined carbohydrates

4. Eat Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice common in many curries, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Its active ingredient, curcumin, is the source of many of its benefits.

This powerful spice can help restore blood sugar balance, supporting liver metabolism, and also helps digestion.

5. Take A Probiotic Supplement

A study in the Permanente Journal suggests a healthy microbiome can also promote the health of the liver.

Leaky gut syndrome can result in changes to the way the liver functions, and as a result can make liver related disorders worse.

If you have questions about probiotics a naturopathic doctor can help.

6. Maintain A Healthy Weight

Even in individuals where alcoholic related liver disease is not an issue, being overweight can mean you are at risk for developing liver problems.

A variety of factors can raise the chances of developing liver damage, including but not limited to obesity, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, and carrying weight at the waist.

Questions? Ask Dr. JJ!

Has your alcohol consumption increased over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic?

Do you find yourself worrying about the effects this might be having on your liver?

Or perhaps you have noticed these trends in a friend or loved one, and you want to help them ensure they don’t have any lasting health consequences, before it’s too late.

I’m Dr. JJ, a naturopathic doctor in Toronto, and I can help.

I offer naturopathic detoxification services in Toronto.

Book your appointment today to find out more.