Let’s face it: Most people don’t think about the functions and importance of the liver on a daily basis. But it’s always good to be reminded of what the liver does for our body to encourage us to make dietary and lifestyle choices that are also good for our relentlessly hard-at-work cleansing organ.

Going back to the basics — the liver is the largest gland of the human body. It serves major functions; perhaps its most important — the production of bile juice, which helps the small intestine break down and absorb fats, some vitamins, cholesterol, etc. from our food and drink intake. The liver also stores essential minerals and vitamins that keep the whole body healthy.

However, the liver can get inflamed due to a variety of factors, including: parasites, viruses, and chemicals from food and drinks. These viruses, such as hepatitis A, B, and C, spread through contaminated food, water, blood, or by having close contact with a person who is infected. Liver disease can also develop from abnormalities in the immune system or inherited genes. Other top causes of liver disease include binge drinking or chronic alcohol abuse, and the accumulation of fat in the liver because of an unhealthy lifestyle.

To prevent these diseases and maintain a healthy liver, take note of these 5 liver-friendly habits:

1. Go for liver-healthy food and drink options.

Choosing a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight can go a long way to prevent any liver disease. Go for fresh fruits and vegetables that are much easier for your liver to process than deep-fried or chemically refined food. Consuming too much sugar can also damage your liver (not to mention your teeth and proper blood sugar level!). Junk foods and deep-fried foods are likely to be filled with trans fats that can cause damage to your liver. Consumption of these along with refined sugar from sugary foods and desserts can lead to build up of fats, resulting in fatty liver disease. Try to reduce or eliminate trans fats and sugar in your diet to reduce your risk of fatty liver disease.

2. Screen. Vaccinate. Don’t hesitate!

Getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B is important for preventing liver disease. Know the top 10 key facts on vaccine safety here: http://bit.ly/2Z9ZWFf

3. Drink alcohol in moderation.

Excessive alcohol consumption is the largest contributor to fatty liver disease. Binge drinking can take a serious toll on the liver, so it’s best to reduce alcohol consumption. Noting the liver’s role in breaking down substances that enter the body, it also processes 90 % of consumed alcohol (the remaining 10% exits the body through sweat, urine, and breathing). Chronic alcohol abuse causes destruction of liver cells, which results in scarring of the liver (cirrhosis) that may lead to liver cancer.

4. Take medicines, vitamins, and supplements wisely.

Taking over-the-counter medications in random dosage (not prescribed by the doctor) can also cause liver damage. Combining non-prescribed medicines, including herbal supplements, with the prescribed ones can have detrimental effect on your liver. Try and take medicines only when prescribed by the doctor and talk to your doctor before going ahead with herbal or any other kind of supplements.

5. Stay in clean, non-toxic environments.

Exposure to harmful environmental toxins can be harmful for your liver. Experts have found several chemicals associated with a dose-dependent increased risk for abnormal liver enzymes. Evidence also suggests that smokers are at increased risk for liver cancer. To prevent liver damage and protect your body, ensure proper ventilation in your room, wear a mask when spraying insecticides, paint or fungicides.

To learn more about liver disease prevention and treatment, click here

For liver-healthy Fall recipes, click here