Liver health is essential to overall wellness, as the liver is responsible for filtering toxins, producing bile, and processing nutrients. Infact all the digested nutrients from the intestines reach the liver, processed and packaged there and then sent to various organs in the body. Unfortunately, liver disease is becoming increasingly common in this era and treatment after disease sets in may prove time consuming, expensive and at times disease may not be curable.
At Progress Gastro Care, we believe in empowering people with the right knowledge to protect their liver health. Here are five significant reasons that could put you at risk for liver disease, including conditions like liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and fatty liver disease.
An unhealthy diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can lead to fat accumulation in the liver, increasing the risk of fatty liver disease. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) also called MASLD ( Metabolism associated Stearotic aliver Disease) is a leading cause of liver damage, and it’s often a result of poor dietary choices combined with a sedentary lifestyle. MASLD can progress to more serious liver issues if not managed through proper diet and lifestyle changes.
Tip: Reducing sugar intake, avoiding processed foods, and including more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can greatly support your liver health. A dietician’s guidance could prove vital.
Excessive alcohol consumption is one of the most well-known reasons for liver disease. Chronic alcohol use can lead to alcoholic liver disease, a condition that may progress to liver cirrhosis and even liver failure or cancer silently without patient becoming aware of it. It’s a myth that only alcohol addicts get liver damage. Alcohol damages liver cells, causing inflammation and scarring, which can severely impact liver function over time.
Tip: Limiting alcohol intake is crucial and can be discussed with your doctor. If you have a family history of liver disease or any symptoms of liver issues, consider avoiding alcohol altogether to reduce your risk. If you are stopping and restarting, please consult a psychiatrist.
Obesity is a major contributor to liver problems, particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease now called MASLD. Excess fat can build up in the liver, putting you at a higher risk of liver cirrhosis and even liver failure in severe cases. Combined with a lack of physical activity, obesity can accelerate the development of liver disease.
Tip: Regular physical activity, along with a balanced diet, can help maintain a healthy weight and support your liver health. Engaging in moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, for at least 30 minutes most days of the week can make a difference.
Hepatitis B and C are viral infections that directly impact the liver, often leading to chronic inflammation. Over time, chronic hepatitis can cause severe liver damage, including liver cirrhosis and an increased risk of liver cancer. Many people are unaware they carry these viruses until the disease has advanced, which is why regular screening is important, especially if you have risk factors.
Tip: Vaccination is available for hepatitis B, and early detection of hepatitis C can lead to treatment options that minimize liver damage. Speak to your doctor about screening if you think you may be at risk.
A family history of liver disease can increase your own risk of developing similar conditions. Genetic conditions such as hemochromatosis (excessive iron buildup in the liver) and Wilson’s disease (excessive copper accumulation) can affect liver function and increase the risk for liver disease. Knowing your family history allows you to take proactive steps to support your liver health and seek early intervention if needed.
Tip: If liver disease runs in your family, consider regular check-ups and liver function tests under the guidance of a gastroenterologist. Early monitoring can help prevent or delay liver complications.
Progress Gastro Care is dedicated to helping patients understand the risks for liver disease and take preventive measures for optimal liver health. Our specialists team consists of best hepatologist, hepatobiliary surgeon and oncologist in Chennai. Our, dietician team has special interest in weight loss, metabolic liver disease and cirrhosis. If you’re concerned about your liver health, consult our liver experts for guidance on maintaining a healthy liver and preventing the progression of liver disease.
