Attentive to the Details of Grace

September 30, 2024 Memorial of Saint Jerome, Priest and Doctor of the Church Readings for Today Readings for Monday of the Twenty-Sixth Week in Ordinary Time

Video An argument arose among the disciples about which of them was the greatest. Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child and placed it by his side and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.” Luke 9:48 This conversation between Jesus and His disciples took place shortly after three events. First, it took place after the disciples returned from the first mission on which Jesus had sent them. Second, it was after Peter made his profession of faith stating that Jesus was “The Messiah of God.” Third, it occurred after the Transfiguration in which Jesus took Peter, James and John up the mountain to reveal His glory. After these three events, it appears that a certain rivalry began to manifest itself among the disciples. Perhaps there was jealousy of Peter’s profession of faith, or perhaps the disciples who were not taken up the mountain of the Transfiguration were a bit envious. But whatever the cause, Jesus addresses what is the beginning of a desire for vainglory among the disciples. In commenting on this passage, Saint Cyril of Alexandria notes that in the spiritual battle, the devil’s first tactic is to stir up fleshly desires within our souls to keep us bound by the desire for those pleasures. However, when a person is able to escape these more base and fleshly desires, then the devil stirs up a spiritual sin; namely, a selfishness and vainglory. It is this desire for vainglory, the desire to be perceived as the greatest, with which the disciples were struggling. Our Lord addresses the disciples after He “realized the intention of their hearts.” This is a very important line. Essentially, Jesus noticed that the desire for vainglory was just beginning. By analogy, when a weed begins to grow, it is easily pulled up by the roots. But if it is left to grow for a while, then the roots are more difficult to pull up, and doing so often affects the other plants and ground around the weed. So it is with sin. By gently bringing a child into their midst and stating that “the one who is least among you is the one who is the greatest,” Jesus was helping them to remove this “weed” of the sin of vainglory before it took deep root in their lives. As Jesus continues His conversation with the disciples, He continues to act with gentleness, addressing their slight error in their reasoning. This is important to understand, because our Lord always desires to address our sin the very moment it begins. If we are open to His subtle promptings of grace, gently redirecting our actions the moment we begin to go astray, then our attentiveness to His loving rebuke will help keep us from becoming more deeply rooted in our error, whatever it may be. Establishing a practice of constant self-reflection greatly helps with this. Establishing this habit means we do not see our Lord as a harsh and critical Judge; rather, we see Him in His gentleness and care. This image of Jesus gently bringing a child before the disciples so as to teach them about true greatness should help us to realize that we should never fear these gentle promptings of grace. Reflect, today, upon our Lord appearing before you, gently addressing the small sins with which you are struggling. Of course, all serious sins must be firmly dealt with first. But once all serious sin is rooted out of your life, be attentive to the gentle and merciful promptings of grace by which Jesus wants to root out every small sin at its beginning and even every spiritual imperfection. Attentiveness to these graces is the surest way to grow in holiness and to allow our Lord to lead you into His glorious will, making you truly great within His Kingdom. My most merciful and gentle Jesus, I thank You for the many ways in which You come to me, revealing Your love and grace. Please help me to see clearly the ways that I must change, so that even the beginnings of the smallest sin in my life may be rooted out. I love You, my Lord. Help me to love You with all my heart. Jesus, I trust in You.

12 Strange Signs That Indicate Liver Damage!

Mindlimes

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Posted by 

Maahira Khan

 

 Sep 22

12 Strange Signs That Indicate Liver Damage!

In this article, we will talk about some early signs that may indicate liver problems. This is very important, as they can help you take steps to prevent the condition from getting worse.

The liver has the ability to repair itself, but only if you take care of it. According to statistics from the American Liver Foundation, about 25% of adults in the United States suffer from liver disease. According to research, about 27% of the Russian population also faces this problem.

Warning 
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. 
The author does not recommend self-medication or using unproven treatment methods. I remind you that contacting a doctor and following the recommendations of evidence-based medicine are the only correct solution in the fight against various diseases. 

Causes of liver disease

Although many people believe that excessive alcohol consumption is the only cause of liver damage, this is not true.

There are other factors that can lead to liver problems, such as eating processed foods, too much sugar and vegetable oils, taking too many painkillers, and viruses. All of these can cause liver damage.

Signs of liver damage

Additional sources of information used to write the article will be indicated in the pinned comment/down below. [1], [2], [3], [4], [5], [6], [7], [8], [9], [10] 

1. Pale stool

Pale stools can be a sign of liver problems. When we eat, our liver produces bile, which helps digest food and fats. This bile gives our stool its normal brown color.

However, if you have liver problems, such as damage or fat buildup, this can block the flow of bile through the bile ducts. This can change the color of your stool to a lighter color, such as paper or clay.

This is due to undigested fats in your diet. Your stool may also become more buoyant, causing it to float on top of the water in the toilet. So, do not ignore these symptoms and consult your doctor for advice.

2. Poor night vision

Poor night vision can be one of the signs of liver damage. This is a condition in which a person has difficulty seeing in low light or darkness.

As we know, the liver’s main function is to filter toxins and produce proteins, including something called retinol-binding protein, which transports vitamin A to the retina. When the liver is damaged, it can lead to vitamin A deficiency, which affects the cells and retina responsible for vision in low light conditions.

If you have problems with night vision, it is important to see a doctor, as this may indicate liver damage. Your doctor can conduct the necessary tests and prescribe treatment to prevent further liver damage and improve your vision.

Note

Retinol-binding protein 4 (BP4) is a peptide that is synthesized in adipose tissue and functions to transport vitamin A to target tissues in the body. This protein is the only specific transport protein that circulates in the bloodstream and delivers vitamin A to its target tissues.

It is important to note that this article does not provide diagnoses or claim that the reader may have any health problems.

The article is based on research findings, doctors' opinions and provides information for informational purposes only!

The beneficial properties of certain products are also written for informational purposes only, based on generally known data.

Please note that this article does not encourage the use of these products as a method of self-medication!

Any questions regarding health and dietary changes should only be discussed with your doctor in person.

3. Swollen right foot

Swelling of the right foot and liver damage can cause a condition known as peripheral edema. This condition is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the tissues, usually in the legs.

When the liver is damaged, it may not produce enough albumin, a protein that is responsible for regulating the fluid balance in the body. This imbalance can lead to fluid accumulation in the lower extremities and cause swelling of the feet, especially on the right side due to the peculiarities of blood flow in the body.

It is important to note that in order to clarify the diagnosis and determine the cause of swelling of the foot, it is necessary to consult a doctor and undergo an examination. Only then can the appropriate treatment be prescribed.

4. Yellow bumps around the eyelids

Yellow bumps around the eyelids can be another sign of liver disease. When you notice white or yellowish growths around your eyelids, these small bags or bumps can be cholesterol deposits known as xanthelasma.

If you have a disease that affects the liver, it can cause the liver to stop breaking down cholesterol and start storing it in various parts of the body, including the eyelids. So if you notice symptoms such as yellow bumps around the eyelids, please do not ignore them and get your liver checked as soon as possible.

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5. Feeling of pressure or discomfort on the right side of the chest

Another sign that may indicate liver disease is a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the right side of the chest, especially after eating.

The bile produced by the liver can become thick and stagnant due to damage to the organ. When the liver is damaged, it cannot effectively remove bile, which can lead to a blockage of the small ducts that connect it to the gallbladder. The buildup of this bile puts pressure on the ribs and can even affect the phrenic nerve, causing muscle tension and discomfort in the right shoulder.

It is important to recognize these sensations as possible signs of liver problems so that you can seek help before it is too late. If you are experiencing symptoms such as pain in the right shoulder, nausea after eating, or a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the right side of the chest, it is important to see a doctor for an examination.

6. Purple or red bumps on the skin

Medical experts have determined that the damaged liver cannot produce proteins such as fibrinogen, which is a key component in the blood clotting cascade.

This can cause people with liver damage to bruise more easily and more often, which can result in unusual purple and red spots or bumps on the skin.

They are mostly seen around the shins and arms, but can appear on other parts of the body. Sometimes they are caused by poor circulation, which is also a sign of liver disease.

7. Cracked heels

Cracked heels can be a sign of liver problems. Our bodies use vitamin B3, also known as niacin, to keep our skin hydrated, smooth, and strong, protecting it from damage.

However, when the liver is damaged, it uses all of its stored vitamin B3 to repair itself. Vitamin B3 deficiency can cause cracked feet, heels, and soles. So it is important to pay attention to this small sign, as it may indicate liver damage.

8. White and swollen nails

White or swollen nails can be a sign of serious liver damage or an underlying health problem that affects the oxygen supply to the nails.

A study in the 1950s found that eight out of ten people with severe liver scarring had completely white nails, confirming the strong correlation between nail appearance and liver health.

Slanted nails, characterized by rounded and enlarged fingertips, can also be a sign of chronic hypoxia, often associated with liver diseases such as cirrhosis. Monitoring changes in the appearance of nails along with other symptoms can help in early detection of liver-related problems.

9. Dark urine

If your urine is dark yellow or brown, it could be a sign that your liver may be damaged. The liver plays an important role in filtering and processing waste products from the blood, including a yellow pigment called beta-carotene, which gives urine its color.

When the liver is damaged, it may not be able to process beta-carotene properly, causing it to build up in the body and give your urine a darker color. This can be a symptom of a variety of liver diseases, such as hepatitis C or liver cancer.

If you notice a change in urine color or other symptoms, such as fatigue, loss of appetite, or nausea, it’s important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Early detection and treatment of liver disease can help prevent serious complications and keep your liver healthy for years to come.

10. Jaundice

Jaundice is a common symptom of fatty liver disease. It occurs when the liver is overloaded with fat and cannot properly process and remove bilirubin, a yellow pigment that forms when red blood cells break down in the bloodstream.

Bilirubin is normally processed and removed from the body, but when the liver is overloaded with fat, its ability to process and remove bilirubin is reduced, causing it to build up in the body. This buildup causes the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes to turn yellow, resulting in the characteristic signs of jaundice.

11. Spider veins

Spider veins are dilated blood vessels that form close to the surface of the skin. They may appear as a web of red, blue, or purple lines, which is why they are sometimes called spider veins. These veins usually appear on the face, legs, and feet and can be a sign of underlying liver disease.

When the liver is damaged, estrogen levels can increase, which increases the pressure in the veins and makes them visible. Spider veins can also be a symptom of other liver diseases, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis.

12. Skin itching

Itchy skin is a common symptom of liver damage. This condition can be caused by a buildup of bile acids under the skin because the liver does not filter them out properly. This causes histamines to build up in the blood, which causes itching. This can cause dry, flaky skin, which can also contribute to the itchy feeling.

If you have any of the symptoms listed above, you may want to see your doctor and have a liver ultrasound to determine if your liver is damaged.

Let's summarize what has been written

Remember that taking care of your liver health is an important aspect of your overall well-being. Don’t ignore the early signs of liver problems. Research shows that many people have liver problems that may be related not only to alcohol consumption but also to lifestyle and diet.

However, it is important to remember that the liver has an amazing ability to heal itself. If you take action early, you can prevent its condition from getting worse. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to your body and monitor your lifestyle and diet. Taking care of your liver means taking care of your overall health!

Additional sources of information used to write this article:

[1] Johns Hopkins Medicine. Liver Health.

[2] Chapman B, Sinclair M, Gow PJ, Testro AG. Malnutrition in liver cirrhosis: more food for thought . World J Hepatol . 2020;12(11):883-896. doi:10.4254/wjh.v12.i11.883

[3] Brunel M, Serste T. Sleep disturbances in patients with liver cirrhosis: prevalence, impact, and treatment challenges . Sleep Sci . 2018;10:369-375. doi:10.2147/NSS.S186665

[4] MedlinePlus. Loss of brain function-liver disease .

[5] Hegade VS, Kendrick SF, Rehman J, Jones DE. Pruritus and the liver: management in primary care . Br J Gen Pract. 2015;65(635):e418–e420. doi: 10.3399/bjgp15X685477

[6] Johns Hopkins Medicine. General characteristics of liver disease .

[7] Kujovic JL. Coagulopathy in liver disease: balancing . Hematology . 2015;2015(1):243–249. doi: 10.1182/asheducation-2015.1.243

[8] Johns Hopkins Medicine. Ascites .

[9] Johns Hopkins Medicine. Chronic liver disease/cirrhosis .

[10] Purnak T, Yilmaz Y. Liver disease and malnutrition . Advanced Practice & Research in Clinical Gastroenterology . 2013;27(4):619-629. doi:10.1016/j.bpg.2013.06.018

[11] Serrao R, Zirvas M, English JK. Palmar erythema . Am J Clin Dermatol . 2007;8(6):347-356. doi:10.2165/00128071-200708060-00004

[12] Tajiri K, Shimizu Y. Recent advances in the treatment of pruritus in chronic liver disease . World J Gastroenterol . 2017;23(19):3418-3426. doi:10.3748/wjg.v23.i19.3418 

Can you recommend a traditional noodle dish for a Filipino family?

Erwin

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Former Compulsive Writer 23h

Can you recommend a traditional noodle dish for a Filipino family?

That would be pancit palabok:

This is a staple noodle dish for Filipino families everywhere. It’s a rice noodle dish with pork, shrimp, chicharon (fried pork rind), hard boiled eggs, green onions, and a sauce made of shrimp/pork stock, patis, garlic, onions and achuete.

Another really popular one is pancit canton:

This is a simple Chinese-style noodle dish fried in some soy sauce, some MSG, a bunch of vegetables and meat. The things you can put in it are pretty diverse and depends on you and your taste, but common ingredients include garlic, onion, cabbage, carrots, celery, labuyo, chicharo, pork, shrimp and chicken.

There’s also the instant noodle version:

I favor pancit canton because I’m allergic to shrimp, and palabok is always served with shrimp. Pancit canton has a much better chance of not having the accursed shrimp in it.

What tea is good for fatty liver?

Nasim Ullah

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Former Managing Director. at Hayat Sweet. (1993–2024) 17h

What tea is good for fatty liver?

What tea is good for fatty liver?

Herbal Teas for Fatty Liver: Nature's Support for Liver Health

The liver plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, including processing nutrients, detoxifying harmful substances, and producing bile for digestion. Fatty liver disease, particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a growing concern due to poor lifestyle choices, such as high-fat diets and sedentary habits. Fortunately, natural remedies, including herbal teas, have gained attention for their potential to alleviate symptoms and support liver health.

In this article, we will explore some herbal teas that can be beneficial for managing fatty liver.

1. Green Tea: A Potent Antioxidant

Green tea is one of the most well-researched beverages for liver health, primarily due to its high content of catechins, a type of antioxidant that has been shown to reduce liver fat and inflammation. Studies suggest that drinking green tea regularly may help improve liver function and prevent the progression of fatty liver disease.

Scientific Backing:

A study published in the journal Hepatology found that green tea extract reduced liver fat content in patients with NAFLD. Its potent antioxidants can neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the liver.

2. Dandelion Root Tea: A Natural Detoxifier

Dandelion root is traditionally known for its ability to promote liver detoxification. It helps stimulate bile production, which aids in the breakdown and elimination of fat. Dandelion root tea can act as a gentle liver tonic and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects that benefit individuals with fatty liver disease.

Book Reference:

The Complete Herbal Guide to Natural Health and Healing by Jessica Wright highlights the detoxifying effects of dandelion root tea, emphasizing its role in supporting liver health and fat metabolism.

3. Milk Thistle Tea: Protecting Liver Cells

Milk thistle is widely used in herbal medicine to support liver health. The active compound, silymarin, helps protect liver cells from damage caused by toxins and promotes liver regeneration. Milk thistle tea can be a helpful addition to the diet for individuals with fatty liver, as it reduces inflammation and helps the liver process fats more effectively.

Book Reference:

In Liver Rescue: Answers to Eczema, Psoriasis, Diabetes, Strep, Acne, Gout, Bloating, Gallstones, Adrenal Stress, Fatigue, Fatty Liver, and Autoimmune Disease by Anthony William, milk thistle is discussed as a key herb for liver detoxification and protection, particularly for individuals dealing with fatty liver.

4. Turmeric Tea: Anti-inflammatory Powerhouse

Turmeric, a golden spice used widely in Ayurvedic medicine, contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound. Curcumin has been found to reduce liver fat accumulation and alleviate symptoms of fatty liver disease by improving liver function and reducing inflammation.

Scientific Backing:

A study published in The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found that curcumin reduced markers of liver inflammation and fat accumulation in patients with NAFLD.

5. Licorice Root Tea: Reducing Liver Fat

Licorice root has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research suggests that licorice root tea can help reduce liver enzymes and decrease fat accumulation in the liver, making it a potential natural remedy for fatty liver disease.

Book Reference:

In The Herbal Drugstore: The Best Natural Alternatives to Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medicines, authors Linda B. White and Steven Foster discuss the benefits of licorice root tea for reducing liver fat and improving liver health.

Conclusion

Herbal teas such as green tea, dandelion root tea, milk thistle tea, turmeric tea, and licorice root tea offer potential support for individuals struggling with fatty liver disease. While these natural remedies can provide significant benefits, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before incorporating them into your daily regimen, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Herbal teas should complement a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and other lifestyle changes that support liver health and overall well-being.

References:

Wright, J. (2018). The Complete Herbal Guide to Natural Health and Healing.

William, A. (2018). Liver Rescue: Answers to Eczema, Psoriasis, Diabetes, Strep, Acne, Gout, Bloating, Gallstones, Adrenal Stress, Fatigue, Fatty Liver, and Autoimmune Disease. Hay House, Inc.

White, L. B., & Foster, S. (2000). The Herbal Drugstore: The Best Natural Alternatives to Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medicines.

This article provides a scientifically backed overview of herbal teas and their benefits for fatty liver disease. Let me know if you need any further information or additional details.

Your insights are invaluable. Please leave a comment below so we can stay connected.