It’s that day of the year – 19th April, when the whole world observes Liver Day. Even though the liver is among the top 5 important parts of the body, little attention and care are given to it. Our poor lifestyle, and poor nutrition bear testimony to the negligence.
So, this World Liver’s Day, let’s get enlightened on the role the liver plays in the body, acknowledge its importance and make use of some tips to keep our liver healthy.
The understated role of the liver in the body
Among the most important body parts for the survival of the body and our well-being, is the liver. The liver is located on the right side of the abdomen and is responsible for getting rid of toxins from the body. It is also responsible for breaking down food and eliminating medications.
But this is not where its role ends. The liver has other significant functions to perform in the body – starting from adjusting cholesterol levels, producing bile for absorbing fat, storing sugar, and regulating hormones. That’s not just a 9 to 5 role for your liver, but 24*7.
So, in a nutshell, if your liver is not healthy, you won’t be healthy too. However, even that is an understatement because you can’t survive a week without your liver.
The health of your liver won’t be the first thing on your mind, but it will always have the upper hand – especially if something goes wrong. So, the last thing you would want is for your liver to be damaged.
But how can you ensure that doesn’t happen? The first step for that is to know what can affect your liver for the worse.
Things that are harming your liver
Having too many soft drinks
The next time you stretch your hands for a can of cola, think thrice. As per research, people who overconsume soft drinks are more likely to have liver diseases, particularly, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It is caused by a build-up of fat in the liver, which can cause severe damage to the liver, including cirrhosis.
Excessive alcohol consumption
Going along the same lines, to the point that all of us might know all too well but choose to ignore it – excessive alcohol consumption is bad for health, particularly the liver.
Your liver begins to accumulate more fats the moment you begin to consume alcohol excessively. The result is a fatty liver that increases the risk of liver diseases among individuals.
Sadly, alcohol has become an inevitable participant in our social gatherings, but the more you avoid it or keep its consumption in control, the better it is for your liver and not to forget your well-being.
Consuming Herbal & Dietary Supplements (HDS)
Everybody likes taking shortcuts, but you have to be a little more than mindful when it’s a shortcut to health. Herbal and dietary supplements have become increasingly popular because they are easy to consume, fulfill your deficiencies and help you meet your fitness goals.
But just so you know, they can cause liver injury. HDS-induced liver injury refers to toxicity or chemical damage that your liver can have as a result of HDS. The world is witnessing increased cases of liver injury and hepatotoxicity. So, be mindful; consult your physician before consuming herbal and dietary supplements.
Smoking Cigarettes, Intravenous Drug Abuse
It is no new news that smoking cigarettes and consuming Intravenous (IV) drugs is a BIG NO for your health. Not only these unhealthy habits are harmful to your lungs, and heart but your liver as well. While smoking can produce toxins that cause necroinflammation, IV drug abuse, can cause several risks, majorly including Hepatitis C and fibrosis.
Drinking Less Water
Drinking an adequate amount of water is not only good for your skin but for the overall well-being of the liver and the functioning of the body. Things can go for worse when dehydration comes into the picture. Water plays an essential role in supplying macromolecules to various cells and removing wastes. When your body is dehydrated, these functions get impacted.
In addition, hydration helps in the smooth and easy flow of blood through the liver, improving blood filtration. So, let this be a reminder to get up and grab that glass of water sitting on the table.
Tips to keep your liver healthy
Now that you know what can cause liver damage, it will be easier for you to discern what can you do to prevent liver damage and keep your liver healthy as ever. Here are a few tips that can help.
- Eat a balanced diet, and maintain a healthy weight.
- Exercise regularly.
- Do a detox regularly
- Limit consumption of liquor and soft drinks.
- Stay clear from drugs.
- Get yourself vaccinated for Hepatitis A, B, and C.
- Do not engage in unprotected sex as it can increase the risk of hepatitis.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Never share personal hygiene items with anyone.
- Wash your hands regularly.
The bottom line
This World Liver Day, make yourself a promise to practice healthy living that is not only good for your liver but the overall functioning of the body. Let today be the reminder that your liver is crucial and you have to do everything it takes to keep it healthy. With these tips, keeping your liver healthy won’t be a problem. Remember in the words of Owen Arthur, “For he who has health has hope; and he who has hope has everything”
