6 Ways You May Be Damaging Your Liver
What the Liver Does
The liver is an important organ that serves many functions in the body. Holding about 13% of the body’s blood supply at any given time, the liver regulates most chemical levels in the blood and metabolizes drugs and other substances into forms that are easier for the body to process (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2019). The liver produces bile, which helps carry away waste and break down fats during digestion, regulates the levels of amino acids in the blood, and converts poisonous ammonia to urea which it then excretes from the body through urine (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2019). Researchers have identified over 500 vital functions the liver performs (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2019).
6 Ways You May Be Damaging Your Liver
Consuming too much sugar. High sugar consumption can contribute to the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2021).
Frequent or heavy alcohol consumption. Chronic alcohol consumption can cause alcoholic fatty liver, and eventually result in cirrhosis (liver scarring) and possibly liver cancer (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2021. Alcoholic fatty liver begins on as little as four drinks a day for men and two drinks a day for women (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2021).
Frequently using acetaminophen (Tylenol). Tylenol and generic acetaminophen is commonly used to relieve fevers and headaches. Unlike Ibuprofen and other Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen does not reduce inflammation in the body. If you’re taking Tylenol for anything other than relieving a fever, NSAIDs or curcumin can be excellent alternatives that put less stress on your liver.
Exposure to toxins. Exposure to toxins, such as household chemicals and pesticides found on fresh fruits and vegetables can put significant strain on your liver (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2021).. Be aware of the cleaning products you use in your home, and be sure to wash your fruit and veggies thoroughly before eating.
Untreated diabetes or high cholesterol. Diabetes or high cholesterol can cause nonalcoholic fatty liver disease - the world’s fastest growing reason for needing a liver transplant (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2021).
Using certain herbal compounds or too many supplements. Vitamin A is a common component that can cause liver damage, as many individuals take multiple supplements containing Vitamin A and end up consuming significantly more than the recommended dietary allowance. This is why it is SO important for folks to discuss their supplements (and any changes to supplements) with your doctor, to ensure that you aren’t placing unnecessary strain on your liver.
Remaining mindful of the factors that can contribute to liver damage, in combination with regular doctors visits, can help you to prevent liver damage and disease.
References
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2021, November 10). 5 reasons you may be at risk for liver disease. 5 Reasons You May Be at Risk for Liver Disease | Johns Hopkins Medicine. Retrieved December 9, 2022, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/5-reasons-you-may-be-at-risk-for-liver-disease
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2019, November 19). Liver: Anatomy and functions. Liver: Anatomy and Functions | Johns Hopkins Medicine. Retrieved December 9, 2022, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/liver-anatomy-and-functions