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Maintaining a healthy liver is crucial for overall well-being, as the liver plays a vital role in detoxification, metabolism, and nutrient storage. Several signs may indicate an unhealthy liver, reflecting potential liver problems.
Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, suggests liver dysfunction as bilirubin accumulates. Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and weakness may stem from an overburdened liver struggling to perform metabolic functions.Abdominal pain or swelling, particularly in the upper right side, can indicate liver inflammation or enlargement. Dark urine and pale-colored stools may signal disruptions in bile production and flow. Persistent itching, stemming from bile salts accumulating in the skin, is another symptom. Easy bruising and bleeding can result from impaired production of blood-clotting proteins. Chronic inflammation may lead to an enlarged liver or spleen, detectable through physical examination. If experiencing multiple signs, seeking medical evaluation is crucial to diagnose and address potential liver issues promptly.
Adopting a lifestyle that supports liver health can significantly contribute to preventing liver diseases and ensuring optimal bodily functions.
Here are key practices to keep your liver in top condition:
Diet
Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, suggests liver dysfunction as bilirubin accumulates. Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and weakness may stem from an overburdened liver struggling to perform metabolic functions.Abdominal pain or swelling, particularly in the upper right side, can indicate liver inflammation or enlargement. Dark urine and pale-colored stools may signal disruptions in bile production and flow. Persistent itching, stemming from bile salts accumulating in the skin, is another symptom. Easy bruising and bleeding can result from impaired production of blood-clotting proteins. Chronic inflammation may lead to an enlarged liver or spleen, detectable through physical examination. If experiencing multiple signs, seeking medical evaluation is crucial to diagnose and address potential liver issues promptly.
Adopting a lifestyle that supports liver health can significantly contribute to preventing liver diseases and ensuring optimal bodily functions.
Here are key practices to keep your liver in top condition:
Diet
- Think color: Eat a diverse diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Think berries, leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, and citrus fruits.
- Fiber is your friend: Load up on whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
- Choose healthy fats: Swap saturated fats from processed foods for healthy fats found in oily fish, avocados, nuts, and olive oil.
- Go easy on the sugar: Limit sugary drinks, desserts, and refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta.
- Hydration matters: Water is crucial for flushing toxins and keeping your liver functioning optimally.
Lifestyle tweaks for a happy liver
- Regular exercise helps burn fat, including excess liver fat, reducing the risk of fatty liver disease. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
- While occasional alcohol consumption may not be harmful, excessive alcohol intake can significantly damage the liver.
- Quality sleep is essential for overall health, including liver function.Preventative measures
- Vaccinations: Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.
- Safe practices: Practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles to minimize the risk of contracting hepatitis B and hepatitis C
- Regular checkups: Schedule regular checkups with your doctor to monitor your liver health.
- Adopting a holistic approach to a healthy lifestyle is key to maintaining optimal liver function.
(Author: Dr. Tanvi Sawant, Consultant – Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Accord Superspeciality Hospital, Faridabad)
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