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Liver Detox For HIV

HIV infection presents a series of potential complications for the liver as a result of its "free radical," or "unstable" status. The more free radicals, the more likely liver cells, which process free radicals, will be damaged. By understanding the liver detoxification process and altering their diets, HIV patients can detoxify their liver and live a longer life.

  1. Phases One and Two

    • Harmful chemicals are converted into less harmful chemicals through chemical reactions in the liver. The first phase of this process creates unstable particles known as free radicals, which can damage cells. Pollution, radiation, food preservatives and HIV all contribute to the creation of free radicals. Once the toxins have been altered, phase two begins. In phase two, liver cells turn the free radicals into water-soluble substances that can leave the body via urine or fecal matter.

    Diet - Phase One

    • Choosing the right foods is imperative for a person to improve his or her liver detoxification function. Good nutrition aids in the ability to repair liver cells that have already been damaged, as well as in the formation of new cells. Antioxidants and phytochemicals are essential for the reduction of free radicals, so foods with beta carotene, vitamins C and E and selenium are recommended. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are a great place to start.

    Diet - Phase Two

    • Foods that contain sulfur compounds, which are needed convert harmful chemicals water-soluble substances, are important for phase two of the liver detoxification process. Cabbage, Brussels sprouts and broccoli are all rich in such compounds.

    Antioxidants

    • The following foods contain antioxidants that limit the damage caused by free radicals: beets, carrots, brown rice, garlic, tomatoes, wheatgerm, melons, peppers, tomatillos, plantains, guava, Brazil nuts and caraway seeds.

    Glutathione and B Vitamins

    • The tripeptide glutathione and vitamin B, important components of the detoxification process, are made by the body and also found in the following foods: eggs, spinach, onions, asparagus, watermelon, papaya, avocado, mushrooms, cayenne pepper and walnuts.

    Food Intake

    • Fresh fruits and lightly cooked, colorful vegetables all contain living enzymes, vitamin C and natural antibiotics that contribute to liver detoxification. Accompany food intake with lots of water. Anywhere from between six and 12 cups a day will help the kidneys remove the broken-down toxins from the liver.

    Avoidances

    • While HIV patients are most likely not consuming alcohol, it is imperative to stress the damage imbibing such beverages will have on the liver. HIV patients should also avoid multivitamins with iron, as iron is stored in the liver and an increase in iron toxicity might occur.

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