Of all the organs in our body, the liver is a silent powerhouse, but it is often underappreciated, overlooked, and ignored! World Liver Day is celebrated on April 19 every year to raise awareness about liver diseases.
“Keep your liver healthy and disease-free.”
This is the theme for World Liver Day 2024, emphasizing the importance of regular checkups to avoid any liver-related diseases. This blog will equip you with top hacks to maintain a healthy liver.
What Does the Liver Do?
The liver, the largest organ in our body, is responsible for hundreds of essential functions. Here are some of its key functions:
- Filters toxins and harmful substances from the blood
- Produces bile that aids in digestion and vitamin absorption
- Regulates the blood sugar levels
- Maintains fluid balance in our body
- Stores essential vitamins and nutrients
In short, the liver plays a crucial role in the smooth functioning of our body.
Top Hacks to Maintain Good Liver Health
Even though there is an official “World Liver Day”, every day is a chance to take a step towards maintaining liver health. Here are our top 5 Lifestyle hacks for a healthy liver:
Hack #1: Cut Down on Sugar and Prefer Whole Foods
We are often advised to drink fruit juices to keep ourselves hydrated. On the contrary, a constant intake of sugary drinks and processed food can overwhelm our system, leading to a condition called fatty liver disease.
The solution? Choose whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods will provide the required nutrients, like vitamins, minerals, and fiber, without spiking your sugar levels.
Hack #2: Exercise Regularly
Exercise isn’t just for obese people or maintaining good body shape. It is great for your liver, too! Regular physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day will burn fat and reduce the workload on your liver. Brisk walking, dancing, or swimming – pick your favorite and get moving!
Hack #3: Maintain Proper Hydration
Water is the elixir of life, and your liver is no exception. Proper hydration helps the liver flush out toxins and aids smooth liver functioning. Drink at least eight glasses of water every day. Adjust this level based on your local climate and activity level.
Hack #4: Choose Healthy Fats
Healthy fats, such as those found in nuts, avocados, virgin coconut oil, ghee, etc., are essential for liver health. These fats regulate cholesterol levels and protect liver cells. However, saturated and unhealthy fats found in fried and processed food can damage your liver. Limit these and choose healthier options whenever possible.
Hack #5: Limit the Workload for the Liver
We bombard the liver with toxins daily, from pollutants and processed food to medications and alcohol. While we can’t completely avoid them, minimize them to the bare minimum. Here are some tips.
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Quit smoking
- Do not take over-the-counter medications
- Choose organic produce wherever possible
Bonus Hack: Manage Stress
Chronic stress can not only impact liver functioning but also your overall health. Yoga, meditation, and spending time with nature are some effective ways to manage stress. Give attention to your mental well-being just like you take care of your physical health. If you have any concerns about your liver health, it’s important to talk to your doctor to check your liver function. A healthy liver keeps your whole body functioning at its best. Incorporating these hacks into your day-to-day life will keep your liver healthy.