Seven ways to improve liver health

The liver has an extremely important function in our body, from the production of proteins, cholesterol and bile, to the storage of vitamins, minerals and even carbohydrates. It also breaks down harmful substances such as alcohol, drugs and natural by-products of metabolism.

What can help?

Lifestyle and lifestyle habits can affect liver health in the long term. In the rest of the text, find out how a change in lifestyle and habits can have a beneficial effect on the health of the hepatobiliary system.

1. Limit alcohol

The liver processes every alcoholic drink you consume, including wine, beer and spirits. The more you drink, the harder your liver has to work. Over time, excessive drinking can take its toll, destroying liver cells.

Alcohol related liver disease (ARLD) includes several different liver diseases, such as:

• alcoholic fatty liver disease
• acute alcoholic hepatitis
• alcoholic cirrhosis

To avoid alcohol-related liver disease, limit your alcohol intake: one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men.

2. Pay attention to the medicines you take

Most drugs - regardless of whether they are sold without a prescription or prescribed by a doctor - eventually pass through the liver where they are broken down. Most medications are safe for the liver when taken as directed. However, taking too much of the drug, taking it too often, taking the wrong kind, or taking several drugs at once can damage your liver. Acetaminophen is an example of a commonly taken over-the-counter (OTC) drug that can have serious effects on the liver if taken incorrectly. . You should never take more than 1.000 milligrams (mg) of acetaminophen at one time or exceed the maximum dose of 3.000 mg per day. Do not mix acetaminophen and alcohol.

If you are concerned about how a medicine may affect the liver, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

3. Pay attention to supplements

As well as medicines, your liver processes supplements such as vitamins, minerals, herbs and natural remedies. Just because a product is natural doesn't mean it won't have long-term effects on your liver. In fact, many seemingly harmless products can cause liver damage.

A 2017 article published in the journal Gastroenterology & Hepatology identifies energy and weight loss supplements as potentially harmful to the liver. Green tea extract is another common herbal supplement that can affect liver function. Even vitamins, especially vitamin A and niacin, can cause liver damage if taken in excess.

4. Diet for a healthier liver

This should not come as a surprise, but our diet also plays a significant role in the overall health and functioning of the liver. To ensure your diet benefits your liver, try the following:

Eat a variety of foods

Choose whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, dairy products and healthy fats. Foods such as grapefruit, blueberries, walnuts and fatty fish are known to have positive effects on the liver.

Consume enough fiber

Fiber is necessary for the smooth functioning of the liver. Fruits and vegetables and whole grains are excellent sources of fiber to include in your diet.

Stay hydrated

Make sure you drink enough water every day to keep your liver functioning satisfactorily.

Limit the intake of fatty, salty and sweet foods

Foods high in fat, sugar and salt can affect liver function over time. Fried and fast food can also affect your liver health.

Drink coffee

Coffee has been proven to reduce the risk of liver diseases such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. It works by preventing the accumulation of fat and collagen, two factors in the development of liver disease. However, do not overdo it with coffee - one to two cups of coffee is enough.

5. Exercise regularly

Physical activity is not only good for your musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems, but also for the health of your liver and the entire hepatobiliary tract. A 2018 study examined the role of exercise in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now one of the most common liver diseases. The researchers concluded that both cardio and resistance exercises help prevent the accumulation of fat in the liver. Fat accumulation is associated with NAFLD.

6. Take precautions against hepatitis

Hepatitis is a disease that causes inflammation of the liver. Some types of hepatitis cause only acute, short-term symptoms (hepatitis A), while others are chronic diseases (hepatitis B and C). Hepatitis A is spread by eating food or water contaminated with the feces of someone who has hepatitis A. Hepatitis B is spread by contact with body fluids of someone who has hepatitis B. Body fluids include blood, vaginal discharge, and semen. Hepatitis C is spread through contact with body fluids from someone who has hepatitis C.

7. Limit contact with environmental toxins

Not only does the liver process chemicals that enter the body through the mouth, but it also processes chemicals that enter through the nose and skin. Some household products contain toxins that can damage the liver, especially if you come into contact with them regularly. Avoid using pesticides and herbicides in your yard or take precautions to avoid inhaling chemical fumes. If you have to use chemicals or aerosols in the house for painting, for example, make sure the room is well ventilated. If this is not possible, wear a mask.

How to protect yourself from hepatitis?

Wash your hands regularly and use hand sanitizer.

Take extra precautions when traveling - avoid tap water and unwashed fruit or vegetables.

Don't share personal items - Keep your toothbrush and razor to yourself.

If you have sex with multiple partners, use a condom to reduce your risk of hepatitis B and C.

Vaccination can help you avoid contracting hepatitis A and B. There is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C.

Read about all these and other topics important for the health of the whole family on Thursday, December 22 in the Health supplement, free only with Vijesti.