The liver is one of the largest and most important organs in your body. It is responsible for hundreds of vital functions. This article attempts to dispel 5 misconceptions and myths, and share 9 tips on how to take care of your liver.
Myth 1: I should feel pain when my liver is unwell
A liver has no nerves and hence, an inflamed liver may not cause any discomfort at all. But as the inflammation continues to worsen, causing fibrosis (scarring) and developing into cirrhosis, only then you experience symptoms such as jaundice. But at that time, your liver would have been severely damaged.
Myth 2: Victims of liver disease are alcoholics
There are more than 100 causes of liver disease. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of abnormal liver tests in the US. People with increased risk of NAFLD are those who are obese, diabetic or with high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in their blood.
Myth 3: Stopping alcohol intake when one has advanced liver disease is useless
Even in advanced liver disease, it is still beneficial to stop drinking alcohol. Studies show that people with advanced liver disease (cirrhosis) who continue drinking have only a 33% chance of surviving for 5 years compared to 65% for those who stopped.
Myth 4: Fatty liver only affects fat people
Thin people can also develop fatty liver. People can get fatty liver from an unhealthy lifestyle that causes fat deposits to build up in their liver cells.
Myth 5: I am a healthy adult so I don't have to worry about liver problems
Liver problems can strike anyone, as liver diseases can be hereditary, caused by toxic substances, viruses and bacteria, or a complication of an unhealthy lifestyle.
Tips on Liver Care
1. Eat right
Eat a balanced diet rich in different types of vegetables, fruits and proteins. Avoid excess fats and carbohydrates as they can cause fat deposits in the liver. Eat smaller meals as they are easier to digest and are less of a burden to the liver.
2. Avoid alcohol
Drink moderately or stop altogether.
3. Do not abuse drugs
Even seemingly harmless medicines can damage the liver. Follow your doctor's prescribed treatment strictly.
4. Avoid environmental pollutants
When using insecticides and sprays, make sure the room is well-ventilated.
Be careful what you take. Not everything "natural" is safe.
6. Observe practices that lessen the risk of infection to the liver
Wash your hands properly after using the toilet and before eating.
7. Stay active
Exercise regularly to increase muscle mass and reduce body fat. It will help reduce fat deposits in the liver.
8. De-stress regularly
Make time for hobbies, meditation, yoga or whatever that helps you relax and unwind. The less stress on you, the less stress on your health and liver.
9. Take liver supplements
A high quality healthfood that effectively protects your liver is Lingzhi / Ganoderma. Over 30 scientific studies have been published on the usage of Lingzhi in liver protection. Yung Kien Ganoderma has been proven to have the effect of reducing injuries to your liver and enhancing liver cells regeneration.
Click here for details on Research into the effects of Lingzhi on Liver Protection.
(Source: Taking care of liver health, Fit For Life, 25 May 2014)
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