According to Hepatitis Foundation International, the liver refines and detoxifies all of the food, air, and chemicals that pass through our bodies. It also converts the nutrients we eat into energy that drives our hormones and immune systems. The liver often does not exhibit symptoms of malfunction until it has sustained advanced damage, and once this has occurred, it can be difficult to reverse. As a result, it is critical to take steps to keep the liver healthy and functioning well.
Step 1
Avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. The American Liver Society notes that excessive amounts of alcohol can contribute to liver disease. Men who choose to consume alcohol should not have more than two alcoholic drinks per day. Sources at Hepatitis Foundation International note that women should not consume more than one alcoholic drink per day.
Step 2
Limit the use of over-the-counter and prescription medication. Hepatitis Foundation International notes that medications containing acetaminophen can potentially harm the liver. The risk to the liver is often increased when medications are combined with alcohol. Thus, individuals who must use medications should avoid mixing them with alcohol.
Step 3
Limit the use of chemical sprays or liquids. According to the American Liver Society, the liver filters the blood and detoxifies harmful chemicals. Many liquids such as bug repellants, paint thinners, and cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that can enter the body through the air or skin. Care should be take when using them---people should avoid direct contact with the chemicals and only use them in a well-ventilated area.
Step 4
Eat a healthy and well-balanced diet that limits excess protein. Hepatitis Foundation International notes when an individual consumes more than the recommended daily allowance, the liver is often overworked and unable to process the excess protein. A medical doctor can advise a patient on the best way to control protein intake through a combined use of vegetable, dairy and meat proteins.
Step 5
Control calorie intake. Excess intake of foods high in carbohydrates or fat can lead to liver dysfunction and to the development of fat deposits in the liver, which inhibit proper function. Hepatitis Foundation International suggests individuals to consume daily about fifteen calories for each pound of their body weight.
