Like most of our essential organs, our livers are something we rarely think about. That is until something goes wrong.
Your liver filters your blood and makes essential proteins. While it’s pretty good at doing that all on its own, you do need to take some small actions to keep it functioning well.
Keep reading to learn a few liver care tips that everyone should follow.
1. Keep Your Weight on Track
If you are overweight, you could be developing or have already developed a fatty liver.
Like heavy alcohol consumption, a fatty liver caused by weight gain can lead to liver disease.
If you’re already a healthy weight, maintaining it is a simple way to care for your liver. If you are overweight, getting back on track can help reverse any damage that’s already been done.
2. Enjoy a Healthy, Balanced Diet
Not only does eating a healthy, balanced diet help to support liver function, it can also help you keep your weight on track.
Meals that are very heavy in calories, and especially those high in saturated fat or carbohydrates are bad for your liver.
While every meal doesn’t have to consist of fruits, veggies, and lean meats, eating these every day can help keep your liver healthy.
Eat plenty of foods that are high in fiber, avoid red meat when possible, and enjoy healthy fats, like nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and fish.
Drinking plenty of water is also essential for a healthy, functioning liver.
3. Get Plenty of Exercise
Getting plenty of exercise can help reduce your liver fat.
Of course, getting that exercise is also great for weight loss, which is another healthy boost for your liver.
If you don’t love going to the gym or are struggling to start working out, try starting small. Take a daily walk. Park your car further from work and take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Making small changes to your daily routines can have a significant effect on your overall health, not just the health of your liver.
4. Avoid Harmful Toxins
The phrase “liver detox” might bring to mind drinking healthy teas, guzzling water, or doing a fast. But in reality, your liver is detoxifying itself in phases all the time.
That being said, you should still avoid toxins in your everyday life as much as possible.
There are tons of environmental toxins that affect your liver, like cigarette smoke, pesticides, and industrial pollutants. These contaminants get into your body from the air, water, and even the food that you eat.
Avoiding these toxins can help you support your liver as it continues its natural detoxing. If you experience impaired liver function or notice any signs that the liver detox phases may be getting interrupted, you should speak with a doctor.
5. Rethink Your Drinking Habits
Most of us realize that alcohol, and especially drinking it excessively, is bad for your liver.
Try to limit alcohol consumption to the occasional cocktail or beer with friends. And if you’re someone who drinks daily or excessively several times a month, you’ll want to rethink your habits.
Practicing Liver Care 365 Days a Year
Proper liver care will keep this essential organ functioning properly, help you stay healthy, and give you an extra boost of energy every day.
For more tips on wellness, nutrition, and living a healthier lifestyle, check out the rest of our website!
