Liver cirrhosis is a chronic health condition that can both reduce your ability to remove toxins from the blood and digest certain nutrients. It is one of the long-term effects of liver damage. When you have liver cirrhosis, you have to make many lifestyle changes, though some theorize that you may prevent the condition with daily green tea intake. Be sure to discuss any use of supplements with your doctor, including teas.
Understanding Liver Cirrhosis
Liver cirrhosis is the term for deteriorating liver function due to damage over time. Chronic alcohol abuse, hepatitis, chronic diseases or infections that cause liver problems may result in this damage. Initially, cirrhosis may be mild and the liver may continue to perform its usual functions, but with less efficiency. It may become so severe, however, that the liver can no longer meet all the body's needs. Severe liver cirrhosis can be life-threatening. According to 2008 data provided by the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, cirrhosis is the 12th most common disease-related cause of death.
Green Tea and Prevention
Green tea may play a role in the prevention of some of the liver diseases that can lead to liver cirrhosis. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, studies indicate men who consume more than 10 cups of tea a day are less likely to develop liver disorders. The UMMC also notes that there is evidence that the compound catechin, which is found in green tea, may be a possible treatment for some types of hepatitis; additionally, animal studies show a reduced risk for liver tumors after green tea intake. If green tea can reduce your risk of contracting these disorders, or slow their progress, it could potentially prevent cirrhosis from developing or at least delay its progression. More studies are needed to determine the effects of green tea on cirrhosis prevention itself, however, before a true link can be made.
Cirrhosis and Lifestyle Changes
Once cirrhosis sets in, there is little that can reverse the liver damage that has already happened. Most interventions for cirrhosis are designed to slow the progression of damage. This includes medications as well as lifestyle changes, such as avoiding toxins and alcohol. According to UMMC, green tea may play a role in minimizing the effect of toxins like alcohol on the liver. However, this is not a green light for alcohol consumption, which must stop once you are diagnosed with cirrhosis.
Using Supplements Wisely
For most people, drinking small amounts of green tea is safe. The UMMC recommends consuming 2 to 3 cups of caffeine-free green tea per day. However, green tea extract contains higher concentrations of the substances found in green tea. Before using green tea extract, discuss it with your doctor, as it can interact with many medications, including blood thinners and chemotherapy drugs. MayoClinic.com recommends limiting over-the-counter medications and supplements unless advised otherwise by your doctor, as people with liver cirrhosis may have a harder time processing them.
