World Liver Day 2023 (WLD) is a healthcare event observed every year on April 19th all around the world. This day marks a year-long campaign devoted to raising awareness of the increasing burden of liver anomalies worldwide, as well as educating people about the importance of enhancing liver health, the various types of liver diseases, their causes, symptoms, early detection, and treatment to reduce the incidence of this chronic condition among the general public.
The liver, often referred to as the body's powerhouse, plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes, detoxification, and immune function. However, despite its resilience, the liver is susceptible to various disorders that can impact its function and overall health. The theme for World Liver Day 2024 is ‘Keep your liver healthy and disease-free’ which mainly stresses on the importance of routine health examinations since disorders related to the liver can lower the risk of liver-related health problems.
On that note, this year, on World Liver Day, let us explore common liver disorders, and provide practical tips on how to maintain a healthy liver for optimal well-being.
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The Importance of Liver Health:
The liver is the largest internal organ in the human body, responsible for performing a wide range of vital functions. These include metabolizing nutrients from food, filtering toxins from the bloodstream, producing bile for digestion, storing vitamins and minerals, and regulating blood sugar levels. Maintaining optimal liver health is highly significant for overall well-being and longevity.
Also Read: World Liver Day 2022: Debunking The Common Myths Regarding Hepatic Diseases
Common Liver Disorders:
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD):
NAFLD is a common liver anomaly characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver, unrelated to alcohol consumption. It ranges from simple fatty liver (steatosis) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can lead to inflammation and liver damage. Obesity, insulin resistance, high cholesterol, and metabolic syndrome are common risk factors for NAFLD. Poor dietary habits and a sedentary lifestyle also contribute to its development. NAFLD often presents with no symptoms in its early stages. However, as the disease progresses, individuals may experience fatigue, abdominal discomfort, and jaundice.
Hepatitis:
Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver and can be caused by viral infections (hepatitis A, B, C, etc.), autoimmune disorders, medications, or excessive alcohol consumption. Viral hepatitis is often transmitted through contaminated food or water (hepatitis A) or blood and bodily fluids (hepatitis B and C). Autoimmune hepatitis is chiefly characterised by the sudden attack of healthy liver cells by the body’s immune system. Symptoms of hepatitis may include fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, nausea, and vomiting. Chronic hepatitis can lead to liver cirrhosis and liver failure if left untreated.
Liver Cirrhosis:
Cirrhosis is a late-stage liver disease characterized by irreversible scarring of liver tissue, impairing its function. Chronic hepatitis, excessive alcohol consumption, fatty liver disease, and certain genetic disorders are common causes of cirrhosis. Symptoms of cirrhosis may include fatigue, weakness, easy bruising, jaundice, swelling in the legs and abdomen, and mental confusion.
Liver Cancer:
Liver cancer, also known as hepatocellular carcinoma, is a type of cancer that originates in the liver. Chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B and C, cirrhosis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are significant risk factors for liver cancer. Heavy alcohol consumption and exposure to certain toxins may also increase the risk. Liver cancer may be characterised by intense abdominal pain, loss of appetite, jaundice, swelling in the abdomen and unexplained weight loss.
Alcoholic Liver Disease:
Alcoholic liver disease encompasses a range of conditions, including fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis, caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption can damage liver cells, leading to inflammation, scarring, and impaired liver function. Symptoms of alcoholic liver disease may include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, swelling in the abdomen, and mental confusion.
Vital Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Liver
Eat a Balanced Diet:
Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your diet to provide essential nutrients and support liver function. Limit consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and high-fat foods that can contribute to liver damage.
Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Obesity and excess body weight are major risk factors for fatty liver disease and other liver disorders. Aim to achieve and maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet to reduce strain on the liver and lower the risk of liver-related complications.
Limit Alcohol Consumption:
Excessive alcohol consumption can damage liver cells and lead to liver inflammation, fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis. Practice moderation or abstain from alcohol altogether to protect liver health.
Stay Hydrated:
Drinking plenty of water helps eliminate toxins from the body and promotes overall liver function. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day to stay hydrated and improve liver detoxification.
Exercise Regularly:
Regular physical activity helps improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and support liver health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week to maintain a healthy liver and overall well-being.
Conclusion:
Understanding liver health is essential for maintaining overall well-being and preventing liver-related disorders. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and limiting alcohol consumption, you can support liver function and reduce the risk of liver disease. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and monitoring of liver health.
References:
- Liver Disease
NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/about-niddk/research-areas/liver-disease
