The liver is such an incredible organ that nurtures and protects the body day in and day out. With over 500 functions, it is best known as the organ that neutralizes and disposes of body toxins, feeds the body the energy it needs to function, and regulates sex hormones, cholesterol levels, and vitamin and mineral supplies.
On top of all these, the Irish Times note that the liver is the only organ that can regenerate itself, which makes it possible for an individual to donate part of their liver to another person. A lot of bodily functions rely on the liver and as such, knowing how to take care of it can be a great help in reducing the risk of developing various health conditions that come with old age. Here are some tips that can help you achieve a healthy liver:
Easy on the booze
With the liver’s capacity to regenerate, liver damage is often reversible – especially if you ease up or completely cut its causes out of your diet. The most common cause of liver damage is alcohol. According to NBC News, a new report found out that more and more Americans are developing severe liver disease related to alcohol. While there is no precise measure of how much alcohol is considered “safe,” it is best to stick to the government recommendation of one drink a day for women and two for men.
Get checked
More often not, we don’t realize that anything is wrong with our livers until the damage is already done. If you’re a heavy drinker or eat too many fatty foods, it’s best to get checked regularly even if you don’t feel anything wrong. Each one of us reacts to chemicals, toxins, and medication differently. That being said, efforts you take to support your liver must be advised by a specialist and tailored to your lifestyle, genetics, and other health conditions.
Cleanse through diet
Food can be a great way to cleanse the liver and detoxify. Dr. Shera Raisen of Parsley Health suggests going on a “cleansing diet that gives your liver a break.” Food like artichoke, watercress, green leafy vegetables, ginger, garlic, and berries all help in regulating the metabolic pathways in the liver and assist in the elimination of toxins. Going for green tea and water instead of sodas and other colored beverages can also be of help to the liver.
Drink black coffee
As mentioned by the US News, more and more research has been found to support the benefits of black coffee on the liver. Aside from protecting the liver from alcohol-related cirrhosis, the anti-inflammatory properties in coffee also help reduce the risk of liver disease by as much as 70 percent. Three to four cups of black coffee a day can effectively help in slowing down fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatitis B and C, as well as non-alcohol-related fatty liver disease.
Given the important role the liver plays in your overall health, it pays to maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet coupled with regular exercise. To ensure a healthy and happy retirement, make sure to take extra care of your other organs like your gut. For tips and tricks on how to improve gut health, listen to our podcast Improve Your Gut Health For A Healthy Retirement.