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A balanced diet is essential for a healthy diet. It plays a critical role in maintaining the optimal functioning of the liver. Excluding certain foods from the diet helps to retain liver function and prevents further complications. Liver fat can be reduced by dietary restriction. Under a strict hypocaloric diet, a 5%1 reduction in the body mass index of an individual is accompanied by a 25% reduction in liver fat. Liver disease (cirrhosis) was the leading cause of death due to alcohol consumption between 2011 and 2015.2 About one-third of heavy alcohol drinkers develop alcoholic hepatitis and about 10% - 20% develop cirrhosis after about 10 years of alcohol consumption.
Synopsis
About Liver Health
The liver is the largest organ of the body and performs a wide range of functions. The liver produces bile, albumin, and bilirubin. It helps to eliminate toxic products from the body. There are a few steps taken by an individual to keep their liver healthier, which include:
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Avoid exposure to toxins, such as chemicals and tobacco products.
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Normalising the cholesterol levels.
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Monitoring blood glucose levels.
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Not sharing the needles, razors, toothbrushes, or other personal items.
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Avoid alcohol and smoking.
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Maintain a healthy weight.
The common conditions encountered by the liver include:
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Alcoholic liver disease
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Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
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Cirrhosis
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Hepatitis
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Cholestasis
The treatment of fatty liver diseases is provided based on the cause and severity of the disease. Fatty liver disease treatments may include a restrictive diet, medications, or surgery. Liver Transplantation is necessary if there is irreversible liver damage.
Consult our gastroenterologist in Broadway Kolkata if you need treatment for liver diseases.
Dietary Considerations to Preserve the Liver’s Health
Studies have shown that individuals with liver disease will have higher chances of developing complications if they are not adequately nourished. Along with the changes in dietary content intake, one has to focus on the quantity of food intake. However, individuals with liver disease are known to have an increased risk of malnutrition, so the dietary calorie intake should be increased to meet the energy demand. Thus, the dietary considerations to support healthy liver function include:
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There are plenty of fibre-rich foods to remove the toxins more efficiently.
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Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats reduce inflammation.
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Antioxidant-rich foods are taken to protect the liver from damage.
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Limit the sugar and salt intake in the diet.
Consult our gastroenterology hospital in Broadway Kolkata if you need to learn more about liver detoxification foods.
Foods to Avoid for a Healthy Liver
Certain foods can damage the liver and reduce its functions. Individuals should avoid consuming foods harmful to the liver to reduce further complications. Here are the 5 foods that are avoided for a healthy liver:
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High-fatty foods
Fast food and processed fried foods are rich in trans fat. The liver breaks down the fat and converts it into energy. But these fats build up in the liver cells and gradually lead to liver damage.
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Alcohol
One of the most frequent causes of liver damage is excessive alcohol consumption. The liver can process a certain amount of alcohol at a time, but excess alcohol consumption leads to liver inflammation, scarring called cirrhosis, and, ultimately, liver failure.
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High sugar intake
Foods rich in sugar content include white bread and candies, which can contribute to liver damage. It is important to choose whole grains instead of refined ones. High blood sugar levels lead to an increase in the amount of fat in the liver.
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High salt intake
Taking more salt can increase the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. It is recommended to limit the salt intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day.
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Red meat
Processed meats tend to be very high in saturated fat, which, when eaten over time, may gradually damage the liver. Red meats, like beef and pork, are rich in saturated fats. The saturated fat damages the liver over time. The patient with fatty liver disease should avoid red meat consumption.
Conclusion
Diet plays a critical role in maintaining the optimal functioning of the liver. Excluding certain foods from the diet helps to retain liver function and prevents further complications. Foods such as fat-rich foods, alcohol, red meat, sugar, and salt-rich foods are strictly avoided to preserve the liver's health. Therefore, take control of your liver health today. If you or a loved one are affected by fatty livers or have concerns about their liver functions, don't wait. At Manipal Hospitals, we understand the significance of empowering patients with knowledge about their food habits to preserve their precious health. Schedule a consultation with our expert team at Manipal Hospitals in Broadway, Kolkata.
FAQ's
Various factors can increase your risk of liver disease. These include:
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Excessive consumption of alcohol
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Chronic viral hepatitis (hepatitis B and C)
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Obesity
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Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
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Certain medications
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Exposure to toxins or chemicals
The most common signs and symptoms of liver disease are:
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Fatigue and weakness
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Jaundice
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Pain or swelling in the abdomen
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Dark-coloured urine or pale-coloured stools
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Nausea and vomiting
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Rapid weight loss.
Some liver diseases may not cause noticeable symptoms until they reach the advanced stage, so seek regular checkups from our experienced doctors for early detection and treatment.
Yes, taking certain measures, such as maintaining a healthy weight, getting vaccinated against hepatitis B, avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol, and getting regular medical checkups done, can reduce the risk of liver disease.
The most common test to assess your liver health is the liver function test (LFT). These tests help measure the levels of enzymes or certain other substances in your blood that may indicate liver damage or dysfunction. Some imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, may also be used to evaluate the liver's structure and detect abnormalities.
To schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, contact our Gastroenterology department or visit our website.
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