7 ways how to save a damaged liver will be discussed in this post. The liver is a vital organ in our body that performs various functions, including detoxifying harmful substances, filtering toxins, producing bile to aid in digestion, regulating blood sugar levels, synthesizing essential proteins, and storage of essential nutrients and energy. Unfortunately, liver damage is a common health problem that affects millions of people worldwide and its damage can lead to a range of serious health issues.
Damage to the liver can result from a variety of conditions, including drinking, viral infections, fatty liver disease, and autoimmune diseases. It might progress into the potentially lethal illness known as cirrhosis if left untreated. The good news is that there are several effective ways to save a damaged liver. In this post, we'll go over seven of the best ways to keep your liver healthy.
1. Avoid Alcohol Consumption
One of the most important steps to save a damaged liver is to avoid alcohol consumption. Chronic alcohol use is a leading cause of liver damage, fatty liver disease, inflammation and scarring in the liver leading to cirrhosis, alcoholic hepatitis, and liver cancer. The first step in saving a damaged liver is to stop drinking alcohol altogether.
For individuals with alcohol-related liver damage, abstinence is the only way to prevent further damage and promote healing. Studies have shown that abstaining from alcohol for just a few months can already help reverse liver damage caused by excessive drinking, what more a complete stop.
2. Maintain a Healthy Diet and Take Supplements
The maintenance of a balanced diet is another crucial component in protecting a damaged liver. Lean meats, fruits, and vegetables, together with a diet rich in fibre, can aid in regulating digestion and promoting a healthy gut flora, which can assist to protect the liver from damage and improve liver function. Also proven to offer liver-protective qualities include foods like green tea, garlic, turmeric, and others. Antioxidants present in high concentrations in these meals protect the liver from damage and inflammation. In a study that was published in the journal Nutrients, it was discovered that a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and olive oil could improve liver function and reduce the risk of liver disease.
Foods heavy in saturated and trans fats, processed meals, and added sugars should all be limited or avoided since they can damage the liver. Large intakes of sugar, salt, and processed foods can increase the risk of developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and other liver illnesses. According to research, a diet heavy in added sugars and saturated fats has been related to an increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which can result in more severe liver damage.
It has been shown that many substances enhance liver health. By reducing inflammation and improving liver function, the plant-based supplement milk thistle has been shown to benefit persons with liver disease. Prior to taking any supplements, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider, as certain supplements like N-acetylcysteine and vitamin E have demonstrated liver-protective properties against medication and toxin-induced damage.
ARGINEX is a nutritional supplement comprising of a blend of minerals, vitamins, and amino acids. It has been proven to enhance liver function in people with chronic liver disease. Among its components, L-arginine has been shown to boost blood circulation to the liver and increase the generation of nitric oxide, a molecule that provides a defensive effect on liver cells. ARGINEX also contains antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, which safeguard liver cells against oxidative stress.
Milk Thistle:
For thousands of years, humans have taken the herbal supplement milk thistle (Silybum marianum) to protect their livers against damage. Silymarin, a flavonoid present in milk thistle, has been shown to have hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. It has been found that silymarin improves liver function in persons with chronic liver disease by reducing liver fibrosis and inflammation. Furthermore, it has been shown that silymarin protects against oxidative stress and toxin-induced liver cell degeneration.
Vitamin D3K2:
Often called vitamin D3K2, this compound contains vitamin D3 and vitamin K2. It has been proven that vitamin D3 has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, and that vitamin K2 reduces liver inflammation and improves liver function. It has been demonstrated that vitamin D3K2 can improve liver function and minimise liver fibrosis when used to treat chronic liver disease. Supplementing with vitamin D3K2 lessens the risk of developing liver cancer, according to more studies.
Vitamin E:
An example of a fat-soluble vitamin with antioxidant capabilities is vitamin E. It has been found to protect liver cells from damage brought on by oxidative stress. Vitamin E is proven to lessen liver fibrosis and inflammation in those with chronic liver disease. Moreover, studies have shown that vitamin E may improve non-alcoholic fatty liver disease sufferers' liver function.
Probiotics:
Live microorganisms that are good to health are referred to as "probiotics" in this context. It has been demonstrated that they have a protective effect on the liver by lowering inflammation and enhancing liver function. In trials, probiotics were found to help people with liver diseases such NAFLD and alcoholic liver disease enhance their liver function.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can develop into nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and ultimately cirrhosis, can be brought on by being overweight or obese. According to one study, persons with NAFLD can improve their insulin sensitivity and reduce liver fat and inflammation by decreasing merely 3-5% of their body weight. A healthy weight can be maintained by eating a balanced diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables and limits processed and high-fat foods.
3. Exercise Regularly and Autophagy
Regular exercise is necessary to keep the liver healthy since it can help to reduce the risks of obesity and type 2 diabetes, both of which increase the risk of liver damage. Exercise has been shown to reduce liver inflammation and enhance insulin sensitivity and liver function, both of which are crucial for liver health. Regular exercise can assist in avoiding obesity, which is a substantial risk factor for liver injury, by assisting in maintaining a healthy weight.
Adults should perform 75 minutes of strenuous exercise or 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, according to the American Heart Association. The liver particularly benefits from aerobic exercises like jogging, cycling, and swimming. In a study published in the Journal of Hepatology, researchers found that exercise can improve liver health in people with NAFLD.
Exercise is not only beneficial for maintaining a healthy weight but also for liver health. Physical activity can lower the risk of developing NAFLD and NASH. A study published in the Journal of Hepatology found that regular exercise can improve liver stiffness, a measure of liver fibrosis, in people with NAFLD. Experts recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, most days of the week.
Autophagy was pioneered by Yoshinori Ohsumi, a nobel prize recipient:
In a process known as autophagy, proteins and organelles from harmed or faulty cells are destroyed. The protection provided by autophagy against oxidative stress and toxin-induced damage to liver cells has been identified. Also, it has been found that autophagy improves liver function in those with chronic liver disease. Autophagy can be induced by calorie restriction, physical activity, and particular dietary alterations. Two techniques to promote autophagy are exercise and fasting.
4. Treat Underlying Conditions and Get Vaccinated
Moreover, underlying medical illnesses such viral hepatitis, autoimmune disorders, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and metabolic disorders can cause liver damage. Vaccinating against these viruses can help treat these illnesses and improve liver function by preventing further liver damage.
All infants, kids, and adults at risk of infection should get the hepatitis B vaccine; the hepatitis C vaccine is not currently available. Hepatitis C does, however, have effective therapies, and early detection and care can minimise liver damage. Immunosuppressants, antiviral drugs, and dietary changes can all be used as treatments.
5. Avoid Toxins and quit smoking
The liver is responsible for cleaning the body of toxins, but if toxins are present for a long time, the liver may get overworked. Poisons must be avoided in order to safeguard a liver that has been harmed. Toxins that can damage the liver include things like pesticides, chemicals, and medications. By utilising protective equipment and practising caution when handling chemicals, one can prevent liver damage by limiting their exposure to specific toxins.
One medication that can damage the liver with prolonged usage is acetaminophen. Read all medication labels carefully, and follow any dosage recommendations. Avoiding chemical exposure at work and in the environment is also very important. Some medications can be toxic and damage the liver. To save a sick liver, careful pharmacological management is required. Observing dose instructions, avoiding the mixing of medications, and discussing any issues with a healthcare provider are a few examples of what this entails. Always follow the directions on any new medication and consult your doctor before using it.
It is crucial to take prescriptions as directed by a healthcare professional and to refrain from using over-the-counter drugs without first talking to a physician. Researchers discovered that minimising the use of unneeded medications can aid in preventing liver damage in a study that was published in the Journal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology.
Smoking increases the risk of developing liver cancer and exacerbates the symptoms of liver disease. According to a study that was published in the Journal of Hepatology, stopping smoking can improve liver function and reduce the chance of getting liver cancer.
6. Manage Chronic Conditions
Chronic diseases that can raise the risk of liver injury include obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. Fat buildup in the liver can result in inflammation, scarring, and ultimately cirrhosis. Liver damage can be avoided by treating these disorders with medication and lifestyle changes. For instance, regulating high blood pressure can lower the risk of cirrhosis while decreasing weight and managing blood sugar levels can lower the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Insulin resistance brought on by high blood sugar levels may contribute to the development of NAFLD and NASH. A study published in the Journal of Hepatology found that NAFLD patients who control their blood sugar levels by diet and exercise can improve liver function and reduce liver fat. Experts recommend eating a diet low in refined sugars and carbs and engaging in regular exercise to help regulate blood sugar.
7. Seek Medical Treatment
It is critical to get medical attention if you have liver damage or are showing signs of liver disease including lethargy, jaundice, or stomach pain. Improved liver function and additional damage can be avoided with early detection and treatment. Depending on how severely your liver has been damaged, your doctor might advise drugs, a change in lifestyle, or even surgery. It's crucial to adhere to your doctor's advice and show up to all follow-up appointments.
TUDCA:
It has been demonstrated that the bile acid tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) guards against harming liver cells. In clinical trials, TUDCA has been used to treat a number of liver conditions, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, primary biliary cholangitis, and drug-induced liver injury. TUDCA has been demonstrated to lessen apoptosis, oxidative stress, and liver inflammation. TUDCA has also been discovered to support autophagy, a cellular procedure that eliminates harmed cellular components, defending liver cells from harm.
7 Ways How to Save a Damaged Liver - Conclusion
One of the body's most important organs, the liver carries out a number of key tasks. The liver can be hurt by a number of things. A damaged liver can be saved in a number of ways that are supported by scientific research. They include of quitting drinking, upholding a nutritious diet, exercising frequently, taking supplements, managing medications properly, minimising exposure to pollutants, and attending to underlying medical disorders. These actions can help people lower their chance of developing liver disease, enhance their general health, and improve liver function. However before making any big lifestyle changes or starting any new supplements or drugs, it is imperative to see a healthcare professional.
[This article was inspired by one of Dr. Noordin Darus's live Facebook sessions.]
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