Understanding Detoxification

The CYP450 enzymes (Cytochrome P450 enzymes) are a superfamily of enzymes primarily found in the liver that play a crucial role in the detoxification of toxins, used hormones such as oestrogen, drugs, and all metabolic waste. They are involved in Phase 1 detoxification, which is the first step in the liver's multi-phase detox process.

In Phase 1 Detoxification, the CYP450 enzymes chemically modify toxins, making them more water-soluble so they can be further processed. They achieve this by adding or exposing functional groups (e.g., hydroxyl (-OH), carboxyl (-COOH)), which involves oxidation, reduction, or hydrolysis reactions. After Phase 1, the modified toxins enter Phase 2 detox, where they are conjugated (linked) to molecules like glutathione, sulphate, or glucuronide. This process allows for safe elimination of the toxins via urine or bile and then stool.

This multistep detoxification process in the liver is occurring 24/7, 365 days a year. And it needs to be supported 24/7, 365 years too :)

Key Nutrients To Support Phase 1 and 2 Liver Detox Pathways

Each phase requires different cofactors and nutrients to ensure optimal function.

Key nutrients for Phase 1 include B Vitamins, particularly, Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin), B6 and Folate but all of the B vitamins play a role. Magnesium, vitamin C, glutathione, Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA), and phytochemicals including flavonoids and polyphenols found in foods like citrus fruits, berries, and green tea, and colourful (red, yellow, purple, orange, brown, white, green) vegetables and herbs.

Key Nutrients for Phase 2 include glutathione, amino acids (protein foods), sulphur-containing compounds, Folate, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin B6, taurine and Glucuronic Acid. 

Foods Sources

Glutathione and sulphur-containing compounds: garlic, onions, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, kale, watercress, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower), and eggs.

Amino Acids: high-quality protein sources like meat, poultry (chicken, turkey), fish, eggs, and legumes.

Folate: Leafy greens, legumes, and citrus fruits.

B12: High quality animal products like meat, poultry (chicken, turkey), liver (beef or chicken), fish, eggs, and dairy.

B6: Poultry (chicken, turkey), liver (beef or chicken), fish, nuts and seeds, chickpeas, avocados.

Taurine: High quality animal proteins especially shellfish, fish, and turkey.

Glucuronic Acid: apples, carrots, and sweet potatoes.

So, by consuming a balanced diet rich in whole foods, especially cruciferous vegetables, garlic, berries, and protein-rich foods, you can help enhance liver detoxification and promote overall health.

Liver-Supporting Herbs for Natural Detox

Once you have a steady intake of the key cofactor nutrients needed for the detoxification process to occur, supporting liver function with herbs can optimise its ability to cleanse and rejuvenate your system. Here are some of the best ones to include:

Milk Thistle: Thanks to its powerful antioxidant active ingredient silymarin, milk thistle helps protect liver cells and supports detoxification.

Dandelion Root: A natural diuretic, dandelion root aids digestion and promotes bile production, which helps break down fats and eliminate toxins.

Burdock Root: Traditionally used to purify the blood, burdock root helps remove heavy metals and other toxins from the body.

Turmeric: Thanks to its active compound curcumin, turmeric fights inflammation and supports liver function.

Start to incorporate these herbs into your weekly routine through teas, adding them into soups, salads and stir fries, or as tinctures or capsule supplements to gently enhance your body's cleansing process.