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LIVER TUMORS

A liver tumor is an abnormal growth or mass found in the liver.

Secondary tumors

The most common liver tumor is a secondary (metastatic) tumor. This means that the tumor has spread to the liver from its original source of origin. The most common sources of origin are cancers of the intestines, breast or bronchial tubes (lungs). The tumor will take root in the liver and continue to grow, eventually causing liver enlargement and perhaps yellow jaundice.

Primary tumors

Primary tumors begin their existence in the liver. Tumors that originate in the liver may be benign or malignant. The most common are malignant. Diagnosis is made with imaging techniques such as ultrasound scan, CAT scan or MRI of the liver.

Benign liver tumors

Benign (non-cancerous) liver tumors may grow in the liver and the most common types are called an hemangioma and an adenoma. Hemangiomas consist of a tangle of dilated blood vessels somewhere in the liver. The tumor is often found incidentally because it does not usually cause any symptoms.

Hemangiomas do not require treatment, although rough sports should be avoided if the tumor is large because of the remote possibility of rupture.

Adenomas are associated with use of the oral contraceptive pill or high dose hormone replacement therapy, and they usually regress after the hormones are discontinued. Those on the oral contraceptive pill and/or hormone tablets should have their liver function checked annually. These benign tumors are easily seen on an ultra sound scan of the liver. They do not develop into cancer.

Primary liver cancer

Primary liver cancer refers to cancer cells originating in the liver. Primary cancer of the liver is one of the most common cancers worldwide, although much less common in the Western Hemisphere. It usually presents itself in persons below the age of 50 years.

The symptoms usually progress rapidly and consist of weight loss, loss of appetite, fever, abdominal pain and swelling. The liver feels enlarged and irregular. Primary liver cancer does not have a good outlook, and this is why it is importnat to avoid the factors that cause it. Early diagnosis and correction of these factors can prevent primary liver cancer.

General recommendations

Avoid mouldy foods and a high intake of peanuts, as they may harbor a harmful type of mould.
Follow the vital healthy eating principles outlined on pages 20-30 of "The Healthy LIver & Bowel Book"
Avoid ALL margarines and similar type spreads
Avoid deep fried and fatty foods.
Limit chicken and turkey that is not free range, as this contains artificial growth hormones, antibiotics and steroids that increase the liver's workload
Avoid artificial sweeteners - see www.dorway.com – use Stevia instead.

Recommended books

"The Healthy Liver and Bowel Book"
This book has a section on liver tumors. It will answer many of your questions in regards to nutritional support for this condition. This book is essential reading for anyone suffering from this disease or any other conditions of the liver or bowels.
"Raw Juices Can Save Your Life"
Raw vegetable juices are a critical component of any nutritional program. Dr Cabot's "Raw Juices Can Save Your Life" has specific recipes.

Recommended supplements

LivaTone^® Plus Capsules/Powder

A specific liver tonic which contains a high dose of the herb Milk Thistle with a high standardized concentration of the active ingredient Silymarin. This liver tonic would also contain additional supporting nutrients such as other herbs, amino acids, vitamins and minerals and vegetable extracts to improve the liver's ability to detoxify and burn fat.

Selenomune Designer Yeast Powder

Selenium is a powerful antioxidant mineral that works synergistically with other antioxidants to assist in protection against damage to liver cells. You would need to consume 200mcg daily. Selenium has been found to be effective in reducing liver inflammation and is a strong antioxidant. This is important to assist in mopping up free radical production.

MSM Plus Vitamin C powder

MSM (Methyl-Sulphonyl-Methane) is an organic form of sulphur, which may assist in softening and preventing scar tissue. Sulphur is also a vital component of healthy bile. Sulphur is needed to produce the powerful antioxidant called glutathione. Vitamin C will neutralize free radicals generated during the phase 1 detoxification pathway in the liver and reduce toxic damage and chemical overload. Toxic chemicals are far less dangerous if there is plenty of vitamin C in the liver. It also helps the liver to regulate cholesterol levels and improves immunity.

THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FDA AND ARE NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT OR CURE ANY DISEASES.

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