Liver is a vital organ of the human body and plays a crucial role in various metabolic functions. It produces liquid called bile for digestion, stores vitamins and minerals, removes toxins from body, and stores sugar.
Liver can get damaged because of multiple factors like alcohol, fat deposition in liver (Fatty liver), various viruses (Hepatitis B, C), various herbal alternative medicines, genetic diseases like autoimmune liver disease and Wilson disease, uncontrolled diabetes, and lipid disorders.
Unfortunately, ongoing liver damage may not show any symptoms for many years. Hence it is very important to screen liver and its damage by performing basic tests like liver function test and sonography of abdomen. Ongoing liver damage can produce swelling (inflammation) and it can lead to scar formation (fibrosis) inside liver. If not prevented from further progression it can lead to permanent liver damage which is known as cirrhosis of liver.
Several lifestyle factors significantly influence liver health. Excessive alcohol consumption stands as a primary culprit, alongside the overuse of certain medications and supplements. Obesity, smoking, and a diet high in processed foods and sugars further exacerbate the risk. Unsafe sexual practices, sleep deprivation, stress, and sedentary habits also contribute to liver damage over time.
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To safeguard liver health and prevent irreversible damage, adopting proactive measures is paramount. Here are some strategies recommended by experts:
- Watch Your Alcohol: Keep a check on the amount of alcohol consumed as going overboard can create problem for liver
- Live Well and Stay Fit: Healthy diet, regular exercise and adequate sleep is advisable for liver health. Having a balanced diet that has high fiber and protein is advisable. This helps in maintaining an ideal body mass index (BMI) of 18.5-22.9 kg/m2 for good liver health
- Get Checked and Vaccinated: Make sure to stay on top of screenings for hepatitis. Vaccines for Hepatitis A and B are available and recommended. For Hepatitis C prevention, avoid sharing personal items like toothbrushes, razors, and needles, and practice safe sex
- Be Med-Savvy: It is also important to be med-savvy. Avoid over the counter alternative medicines, as they contain heavy metals which can damage liver
- Stay on Top of Things: If you’ve got conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, keep them in check. Medications and lifestyle changes can help
- Early Detection: Consider Noninvasive tests like Fibro scan (Elastography) to identify early fibrosis changes in liver
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking is to be avoided as it puts extra strain on your liver, among other things
- Keep Tabs: Regular check-ups are a must. Keep an eye on your blood pressure, cholesterol, and liver function
Prioritising liver health through lifestyle modifications and proactive healthcare measures is crucial for overall well-being. By adopting a holistic approach and incorporating these strategies into daily life, individuals can safeguard their liver health and enjoy a healthier, more fulfilling existence.
Dr. Nitin Aherrao, MD DM Gastroenterology, Consults on Practo.
