DO’S AND DON’T FOR HEALTHY LIVER

The liver, the body's second-largest organ, is also the body's most complex organ, second only to the brain. It's because the liver is in charge of several vital functions in the body that have an impact on the human body's immunity, digestion, and metabolism. We inadvertently abuse this vital organ in a variety of ways. Maintaining healthy body weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption, including liver-friendly foods in your diet, and even getting vaccinated against Hepatitis can all help your liver. If at all possible, the best way to combat liver disease is to avoid it. Here are some tried-and-true ways to improve your liver's health!

DO’S FOR HEALTHY LIVER:

·       Eat a well-balanced and healthy diet: Fiber, which can be found in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grain bread, rice, and cereals, is essential for a well-balanced diet. Consume meat (but not red meat), dairy (low-fat milk and small amounts of cheese), and fats as well (such as vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and fish). Coffee, nuts, fatty fish, and olive oil are all safe to consume.

·       Stay hydrated: If you want a healthy liver, one of the golden rules is to stay hydrated. Water is a natural detoxification agent that aids the liver in removing waste from the body.

·       Exercise regularly and live an active lifestyle: 150 mins of physical activity per week or 10,000 steps per day can help you lose weight in your liver.

·       Wash your hands: After using the restroom, changing a diaper, and preparing or eating food, wash your hands with soap and water.

·       Always read and follow the directions on all medications: Your liver can be harmed if you take too much of the wrong type or mix medications. Never mix alcohol with other drugs or medications, even if they aren't taken at the same time. Tell your doctor if you take any over-the-counter medications, supplements, or natural or herbal remedies.

·       Have safe sex: Having unprotected sex or sex with multiple partners increases your risk of contracting hepatitis B and C.

·       Get vaccinated: Getting vaccinated against hepatitis A, B, and C is critical.

·       If you have diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol, be cautious: Damage to the liver can be caused by type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, and obesity.

·       Reduce or eliminate smoking.

DON’T FOR HEALTHY LIVER:

·       Stay away from toxins: Toxins can harm liver cells. Toxins from cleaning and aerosol products, insecticides, chemicals, and additives should be avoided. If you must use aerosols, make sure the area is well ventilated and that you wear a mask.

·       Limit your intake of processed foods, which have a high glycaemic index and contribute to fatty liver disease. Furthermore, these foods raise blood sugar levels in the body. High-calorie foods, saturated fat, refined carbohydrates (such as white bread, white rice, and regular pasta), and sugars should all be avoided. Shellfish should never be eaten raw or undercooked.

·       Drink in moderation and keep your alcohol intake to a minimum.

·       Avoid using illegal drugs, such as marijuana/hashish, cocaine, heroin, hallucinogens, inhalants, or non-medically prescribed psychotherapeutics (pain relievers, tranquilizers, stimulants, and sedatives).

·       Stay away from contaminated needles: Dirty needles aren't just associated with intravenous drug use. Though uncommon, unsafe injection practices could occur in a hospital setting, necessitating immediate attention. Use only sterile needles for tattoos and body piercings.

·       Don't share personal hygiene items: Razors, toothbrushes, and nail clippers, for example, can contain microscopic amounts of blood or other body fluids that could be contaminated.