Biology

For general health, maintaining a healthy liver is crucial, yet it frequently goes unrecognised until issues start to occur. The liver merits our attention and care due to its critical function in removing toxins and assisting with digestion. Dr. Preeti Kabra, Chief of Lab at Neuberg Diagnostics, spoke with India Today about the essential actions to protect the health of the liver, highlighting the value of a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol intake. Additionally, we highlight the potential hazards of specific vitamins and supplements that can damage the liver, suggesting caution and expert counsel when thinking about such goods. THE UNSUNG HERO: THE ESSENTIAL PART YOUR LIVER PLAYS One of our bodies' most important organs, the liver helps with digestion, stores key nutrients, and filters pollutants. Many of us neglect its health despite its vital roles until issues occur. Our liver need the utmost attention if we want to preserve general health. ADOPT A HEALTHY DIET For the health of the liver, a nutritious diet is essential. Include a range of fresh produce in your meals, along with whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit your consumption of processed foods, sweet beverages, and too much alcohol, which can overtax the liver and raise the risk of developing liver disease. "It's crucial to use moderation in everything, but especially while using alcohol, as excessive intake can result in permanent harm. Reduce your intake of processed foods and saturated fats while increasing your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to nourish your liver, advised Dr. Preeti Kabra. KEEP A HEALTHY WEIGHT. A significant risk factor for liver disease is obesity. You can lessen your risk of contracting diseases like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) by keeping a healthy weight through consistent exercise and a balanced diet. LIMIT YOUR CONSUME OF ALCOHOLS The main factor contributing to liver impairment is excessive alcohol use. One drink per day is the recommended maximum for women and up to two drinks per day for males. Be mindful that going overboard might result in alcohol-related liver damage and other severe problems. "Remain hydrated to keep your liver operating at its best. Water helps wash away toxins. Exercise frequently to improve blood flow and maintain liver health. Maintain a healthy weight as a top priority because obesity can strain the liver and worsen fatty liver disease, according to Dr. Kabra. AVOID HERBAL REMEDIES AND OVER-THE-COUNTER SUPPLEMENTS Although some vitamins and supplements might support general health, it is important to exercise caution. A few supplements can be harmful to the liver, especially if taken in excessive doses or along with other drugs. Always get medical advice before beginning a new supplement regimen. AVOID VERMIN-HARMFUL SUPPLEMENTS Use caution when using medications, be aware of possible adverse effects, and seek medical advice. Get immunised and engage in safe sexual behaviour to prevent hepatitis, advised Dr. Kabra. She added that adopting these behaviours can help your liver flourish, ensuring a full and active life. Regular liver exams are essential for identifying any problems early and allowing for prompt diagnosis and treatment. She said that by making regular exams a priority, we protect the health of our liver, ensuring longevity and excellent performance. PERIODICAL INSPECTIONS AND SCREENINGS In spite of the complexity of liver function, critical tests are essential for keeping track of the organ's health. These diagnostic procedures give light on the health of the liver, from the complete liver panel that assesses enzyme levels, bilirubin, and albumin to specialised tests like the FibroScan for evaluating liver stiffness and fibrosis, according to Dr. Preeti Kabra. Additionally, she stressed how imaging methods like ultrasonography, CT scans, and MRIs can help visualise any anomalies. Regularly having these tests enables people to control their liver function effectively, facilitating early disease detection and enabling prompt therapies. Accept these tests as stewards of the health of your liver, ensuring a better future. India Today spoke with Dr. Shrey Srivastav, Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine at Sharda Hospital, about how people may maintain healthy livers: Keep your weight within a healthy range: Eat a balanced diet to prevent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), one of the liver disease's that is rising the quickest. Consume fibre, fresh produce, whole grain breads, grains, and cereals; exercise frequently; abstain from alcohol or use it wisely; and Avoid using illegal drugs: Inhalants, hallucinogens, heroin, cocaine (including crack), marijuana/hashish, and prescription-only psychotherapeutics (painkillers, tranquillizers, stimulants, and sedatives) taken recreationally are all considered illegal substances. Avoid using infected needles; practise good hygiene; and Obtain a vaccine. Both hepatitis A and hepatitis B have vaccinations. Sadly, there is no vaccination available to protect against the hepatitis C virus.