Jaundice
Description
Jaundice is a condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, caused by the buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a yellow-orange pigment that is a natural byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells. Under normal conditions, the liver processes bilirubin and eliminates it through stool and urine. However, when the liver cannot efficiently process bilirubin—due to liver diseases such as hepatitis, bile duct blockages, or gallstones—or when red blood cells are broken down excessively, bilirubin accumulates in the blood. This accumulation leads to the visible yellow discoloration associated with jaundice. The condition can have a variety of underlying causes, including liver dysfunction, viral infections, or genetic disorders affecting red blood cell production. Identifying and addressing the root cause of jaundice is essential for effective treatment and preventing further complications, making early diagnosis crucial.
Body System
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1. Vitamin B12 [Cobalamin]: Vitamin B12 is essential for proper red blood cell breakdown and bilirubin regulation. Ensuring sufficient levels helps prevent elevated bilirubin, which in turn supports healthy liver function.
2. N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine [NAC]: NAC, a precursor to glutathione, plays a critical role in liver detoxification by reducing oxidative stress and supporting liver recovery, making it beneficial for maintaining overall liver health.
3. Vitamin E: Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, helps reduce oxidative stress in the liver. By protecting liver cells from oxidative damage, it supports the management of liver conditions associated with oxidative stress.
4. Glutathione: Glutathione, the body’s primary antioxidant, is essential for liver detoxification. It reduces oxidative stress and aids the liver in processing and eliminating toxins, helping maintain healthy liver function.
5. Selenium: Selenium enhances antioxidant defenses, particularly in the liver. By protecting liver cells from oxidative damage, it supports detoxification and overall liver health, promoting better detox capacity.
6. Alpha-Lipoic Acid [ALA]: Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful antioxidant that regenerates glutathione and Vitamin C. It helps protect the liver from oxidative stress and supports detoxification, enhancing liver function.
7. Phosphatidylcholine: Phosphatidylcholine supports liver health by maintaining the integrity of liver cell membranes and aiding in tissue regeneration, promoting healthy liver function during detoxification.
1. Milk Thistle Extract: Milk thistle, rich in silymarin, protects liver cells and supports detoxification processes, offering valuable support for liver health and overall detoxification.
2. Burdock Root Extract: Burdock root supports liver detoxification and may promote a healthy bilirubin profile, contributing to improved liver function and overall liver health.
3. Curcumin: Curcumin’s strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help reduce liver inflammation, support bile production, and may assist in maintaining healthy bilirubin levels, supporting liver function.
4. Artichoke Leaf Extract: Artichoke leaf promotes bile production and supports liver function, aiding in detoxification and potentially helping to maintain healthy bilirubin levels, making it beneficial for liver health.
5. Dandelion Root Extract: Dandelion root is traditionally used to support liver and gallbladder health. Its natural diuretic properties help eliminate excess fluids and toxins, supporting liver detoxification and overall liver health.
No replicated and convincing research studies are available, and there is no anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of this method.
1. Ayurveda: Ayurveda incorporates specific herbs and dietary practices to improve liver function, enhance bile flow, and detoxify the body. Common herbs like Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), and Bhumyamalaki (Phyllanthus niruri) are frequently used to support liver health.
Supplements
Plant Extracts
Natural Compounds
Alternative Treatments
Symptoms & Signs
Causes
Liver Cirrhosis, Preniciius Anemia, Hepatitis, Hemolysis, Biliary Tract Obstruction, Gilbert's Syndrome
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How Nutrients Function
Antioxidants: Antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular ailments. They safeguard DNA integrity, slow down aging processes, and support overall cellular health.
Herbal Extracts: Herbal extracts contain bioactive compounds with various medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. They have been used traditionally to support digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Minerals: Minerals are essential for various physiological functions, including bone health, nerve transmission, and enzyme activity. They support overall health by ensuring proper cellular function and metabolic processes.
Other Nutrients: Other nutrients encompass a wide array of essential compounds crucial for various physiological functions. This category includes neurotransmitters and their precursors, which facilitate nerve signaling and are vital for central nervous system function. Additionally, naturally occurring structural components and biological detergents, such as phospholipids and bile salts, play critical roles in tissue repair, fat digestion, and overall bodily function. Phospholipids contribute to cell membrane integrity and fat emulsification, while bile salts are key to digesting and absorbing dietary fats. Hormones and their precursors regulate numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Furthermore, naturally occurring chemicals and metals play pivotal roles in enzymatic reactions, immune function, and overall health maintenance.
Vitamins: Vitamins are essential micronutrients that play diverse roles in supporting cellular processes, immune function, and overall health. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation to ensure proper bodily function.
Nutrients Explained In Nutritional Guide
Podcast Episodes To Listen To
Educational Videos To Learn From
Functional Lab Tests That You Might Consider
References
Things To Do
The dietary recommendations for jaundice include foods that help detoxify the liver. Incorporate the following:
a whole-foods-based diet composed of fresh vegetables and fruits, legumes, fish, and whole grains.
A high-fiber diet and antioxdiant-rich whole foods improve digestion and detoxification of the body.
Steam, boil, or bake your meals.
soups and broths.
whole foods rich in vitamin B12, folic acid, calcium, magnesium, and postassium. They support liver health.
Use coriander and turmeric to spice your meals and cleanse the liver.
Drink a lot of quality mineral water and coconut water.
Implement liver detoxifying juices, such as lemon water, beet green juice, and beet juice.
consume fats from whole foods, such as avocado, nuts, seeds, fish, etc.
Make your meals smaller but nutrient-dense. Incorporate healthy snacks.
Drink moderate amounts of coffee and herbal tea. They influence detoxification.
Furthermore, try the following:
get a lot of rest.
Take care of your sleep hygiene.
expose your body to sunlight. It helps break down bilirubin.
Things To Avoid
The foods and products you should avoid at all times when suffering from jaundice include items that can contribute to poor liver function. These include:
processed, junk, and fast foods high in trans fats, sugar, refined carbohydrates, added salt, food additives, and preservatives.
deep-fried foods, fatty foods, and grilled foods.
beef and pork, which require a lot of effort from the liver to support their digestion.
raw and undercooked seafood, including fish and shellfish.
packaged and smoked products, which are high in AGEs.
alcohol, which affects the liver.
white refined sugar in any form. Sugar is harmful to the liver and contributes to the development of NAFLD.
refined carbohydrates, such as pastas, breads, pastries, pizza dough, etc.
restaurant and takeout food.
large, heavy meals.
too much sodium in the diet. Sodium promotes water retention. Use other herbs and spices to flavor your meals.
Furthermore, avoid the following:
chronic stress.
strenuous physical activity.
smoking.
insufficient sleep.
medications.