Our body’s second largest organ, the liver has more than 500 jobs to do, including helping the body get rid of unwanted toxins like alcohol and it’s by-products. What can we all do this festive season to show our livers a little more love?
We spend a good deal of our life asleep – but what if you can’t?
Sleep is essential for repair processes to take place. This includes calming the immune system and clearing toxins from your 
brain. Research has proven that poor sleep increases levels of proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease in the brain. Hormones that control your metabolism and weight are also governed by a cycle with sleep hormones such as melatonin. [Read more…]
Even if you don’t drink, you may still have liver disease
Many of us believe that liver disease is alcohol related, but in reality, this is far from the truth. You might also think this doesn’t affect you. However, the incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is estimated to be at least 25% of the Irish population and on the rise. There are no tell-tale signs or symptoms. However, if you have some of the below risk factors, it is likely that your liver health is not optimal:
– Obesity/ overweight, particularly if carrying excess
– High fat and sugar in diet
– Consumption of one or more sugary fizzy drinks per day
– Diabetes or pre-diabetes
Zinc – the ultimate multi-tasker
Zinc is an extremely important mineral in our diet. It is a component of one of the most abundant antioxidant compounds in the body (copper-zinc oxide dismutase) and is a co-factor in over 400 reactions in the body, including many steps involved in metabolism. It is essential for the production of sperm and for the development of mature eggs and uterine health in female fertility. Zinc is critical for the production of thyroid hormones and thus regulation of our hormones in general and prevention of miscarriage.
Eat to beat winter bugs
Aussie flu and antibiotic-resistant superbugs on the horizon? Keep your immune system fighting fit with these tips from Nutritionist Heather Leeson
