The liver is a vital organ that plays a crucial role
in our body’s metabolism, detoxification, and immune system. Maintaining liver
health is essential for our overall well-being, but many of us neglect the
necessary precautions. Liver disease is a growing concern globally, with
non-alcoholic fatty liver disease being one of the fastest-growing forms.
However, the good news is that there are many ways to keep your liver healthy,
and most of them are simple and practical. In this article, we will discuss 12
tried and true ways to maintain a healthy liver, including maintaining personal
hygiene, a sensible diet, exercising regularly, avoiding toxins, being
responsible with alcohol, seeking medical attention when necessary, and getting
vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. By following these tips, you can take
control of your liver health and avoid the many potential complications that
can arise from liver disease.
Personal hygiene, a sensible diet and prudence are
key to keeping your liver healthy. The best way to fight liver disease is to
avoid it. Here are 12 tried and true ways to keep your liver healthy.
Wash your hands
Use soap and warm water as soon as you come home
from the street, after using the toilet, taking care of pets, and before
cooking or eating.
Maintain a healthy weight
If you’re obese or overweight, you could be at risk
of liver obesity, which can lead to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD),
one of the fastest growing forms of liver disease. Weight loss will play an
important role in reducing the amount of fat in your liver.
Follow a balanced diet
Limit your intake of energy-dense foods, saturated
fats and refined carbohydrates. Eat enough fibre, which you can get from
berries, fruit, vegetables, wholemeal bread, and cereals. Eat meat, dairy
products and give priority to monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (found
in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and fish). Drink plenty of water.
Exercise regularly
In addition to general health benefits, muscle
development and bone strength, exercise helps you burn fat as fuel and can also
reduce liver fat.
Avoid toxins
Toxic substances can damage liver cells. Limit direct
contact with toxins from cleaning and aerosol products, insecticides and
chemicals. Do not smoke or consume drugs.
Be responsible with alcohol
Alcohol can cause a variety of health problems.
Alcohol can damage and destroy liver cells. Remember that there is no safe
level of alcohol.
Avoid contaminated needles
Dirty needles are not only associated with
intravenous drug use. You should consult a medical practitioner and be examined
after any type of penetration through the skin using sharp instruments or
needles. Particular caution should be exercised when using tools at
cosmetologists, for tattoos and piercings.
Seek medical attention if you have been exposed to
blood
If for any reason you have come into contact with
another person’s blood, seek medical attention immediately. If you are
extremely worried, go to the emergency department of your nearest hospital.
Do not share personal hygiene items
For example, razors, toothbrushes and nail clippers
may contain microscopic drops of blood or other body fluids that may be
contaminated.
Practice safe sex
Unprotected sex or sex with multiple partners
increases your risk of hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
Follow the prescriptions of all medicines
When medicines are taken incorrectly – for too long,
in the wrong dose or combined with other medicines – your liver may be at risk.
Never mix alcohol with medicines. Tell your doctor about any over-the-counter
medicines, food supplements or herbal preparations you are using.
Get vaccinations
There are vaccines against hepatitis A and against
hepatitis B. Take advantage of this opportunity! Unfortunately, there is no
vaccine against hepatitis C virus.
image sources
- Man holding his right side, suffering from liver pain: License Date: February 24th, 2023 Item License Code: PFAZSGWXE9