If you're 40 or beyond, listen up, your liver is a vital organ, and taking care of it is crucial for your overall well-being. Looking after it is like giving it a big 'thank you' for all the hard work it does.
It does lots of important jobs, like making proteins, cholesterol, and bile. It even stores vitamins, minerals, and carbs for your body's needs.
But that's not all – it's also a pro at getting rid of harmful substances, like alcohol, medicines, and toxins your body doesn't need anymore. So, to stay healthy, taking care of your liver is a must.
Ready to learn more?
Here we are sharing ten easy-to-follow tips that can keep your liver healthy:
Watch What You Eat:
Ensure that you eat a balanced diet. Include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your meals. Cut down on fried and oily foods, and limit your sugar and salt intake. Indian spices can add flavors without overloading your liver.
Stay away from foods that have too many calories, lots of unhealthy fats, and things like white bread, white rice, and regular pasta. Also, try to avoid sugary beverages. Eat fiber foods like fresh fruits, veggies, whole grain bread, rice, and cereals because they're good for your digestion. Add some dairy like low-fat milk and a little cheese.
And not to forget that good fats are found in things like vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds.
Stay Hydrated:
Drinking enough water helps your liver function better. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water a day. You can also include herbal teas or nimbu pani (lemon water) to stay refreshed.
Control Alcohol Consumption:
If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Excessive alcohol can harm your liver. Stick to the recommended limits or consider quitting altogether.
Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Being overweight can strain your liver. Aim to maintain a healthy weight through a combination of diet and regular exercise.
Even a 30-minute walk can make a big difference!
If you're carrying extra weight, even just a bit, it can put your liver at risk of getting too fatty, which can lead to fatty liver disease. This is becoming more common. Losing weight can really help lower the fat in your liver.
Say No to Smoking:
Smoking is harmful not only to your lungs but also to your liver. If you smoke, consider quitting to protect your liver and overall health.
Avoid Drugs/Medicines:
Some over-the-counter medicines can harm your liver when taken excessively. Always follow the instructions on your medications carefully. If you use medicines the wrong way, like taking too many, the wrong kind, or mixing them up, it can hurt your liver.
Always consult a doctor before taking any medication, especially painkillers, supplements, or natural remedies you're using.
Get Vaccinated:
Protect yourself against hepatitis by getting vaccinated. Hepatitis can severely damage your liver, so ensure you're up-to-date on vaccinations.
Reduce Stress:
Stress can affect your liver health. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation to keep pressure at bay.
Regular Health Check-ups:
Visit your doctor regularly for health check-ups. They can monitor your liver function and catch any issues early on.
Limit Junk Food:
Cut down on fast food and packaged snacks. These often contain harmful additives that can harm your liver over time.
