The liver is an important organ that is responsible for numerous body functions, including regulating digestion and nutrient absorption, converting glucose to energy and filtering toxins from your body. Your liver also produces proteins and cholesterol necessary for carrying blood and fats through the body. Maintaining a healthy liver or healing a damaged liver involves making a conscious effort at living a healthy lifestyle, taking preventive measures with your health and pursuing the appropriate medical interventions.
Step 1
Eat a well-balanced diet with healthy sources of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Maintain liver health by eating a diet rich in plant-based foods and limited in saturated fats. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are fibrous and help your liver digest and process nutrients. Green vegetables and most fruits also contain antioxidants, which keep your liver clean of free radicals that damage your body. Eating lean meats like chicken or fish is also helpful in providing you with protein and unsaturated fats for absorbing glucose. Limit your meal portions, and eat small snacks between breakfast, lunch and dinner to maintain a well-balanced and nutritious regimen.
Step 2
Avoid overuse of medications. Prescribed and over-the-counter medications can become toxic to your liver when used in excess. Adhere to product labeling, and only take medications as recommended by your physician. Do not mix medications without consulting your physician about safety.
Step 3
Limit your alcohol consumption and avoid smoking. Smoking injures your liver cells and is toxic to your body. Excess alcohol consumption also damages your liver by causing fatty tissue to accumulate. Quit smoking by enrolling in a smoking cessation program or seeking professional counseling. Decrease your alcohol intake or abstain altogether by attending support meetings.
Step 4
Get regular health checkups. As you age, your body is more vulnerable to infection. Get yearly physical exams to maintain your health and monitor your liver functions. If you eat healthfully and follow a healthy lifestyle, you are less likely to develop liver problems. However, exposure to environmental toxins like pesticides or paint and viruses from contact with blood or body fluids can harm your liver. Prevent future problems by staying aware of your health needs.
Step 5
Add garlic to your meals, and consider herbal supplements. Garlic is a natural antioxidant that protects your liver. Use fresh garlic cloves in your main entrees to cleanse your liver and promote health. With consultation from your physician, consider using herbal supplements like licorice root or milk thistle as an adjunct to liver health.
Tips and Warnings
- Get regular hepatitis vaccines if your work in the health care field. Use protective equipment like masks, gloves and nose guards when working with toxic chemicals.
- Avoid using recreational drugs; they cause damage to your liver.
