Taking care of your liver
Drink water, eat plenty of vegetables and fruits for the health of your liver, writes Beatrice Nakibuuka.
The liver’s main function is to filter the blood coming from the digestive tract, before passing it to the rest of the body.
It also helps in the breakdown of food through the production of bile; it is a store place for glycogen, vitamins and minerals which help in the metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
Lilian Nyanzi, a nutritionist at Neulife Medical Centre, Bweyogerere warns that over consumption of baked foods that contain a lot of sugar, salt and oil and are bad for liver health.
Over time, the liver fails to do its cleansing job which may lead to inflammation and later scarring of the liver (cirrhosis). The liver converts the sugar into fat that is stored around the liver. This often develops into fatty liver disease.
Nyanzi says, “Alcohol wrecks your liver and over time, it can lead to cirrhosis. Drinking water instead of sweetened drinks such as sodas or energy drinks and alcohol is recommended for a healthy liver. Green tea contains plant-based antioxidants which support proper functioning of the liver.”
Common liver problems
Some liver problems include
hepatitis, which is an inflammation of the liver, caused by heavy drinking, drugs or obesity. There is also cirrhosis which is long-term damage to the liver leading to permanent scarring.
Liver cancer usually occurs after cirrhosis is present. Liver failure can also occur due to infection, genetic diseases and excessive alcohol.
In some cases, hemochromatosis allows iron to deposit in the liver, damaging it.
Eating for liver health
Vegetables
They can be eaten raw, steamed or juiced. Since they have a distinct ability to neutralise heavy metals, chemicals, and pesticides, vegetables offer a powerful protective mechanism for the liver.
“Incorporating leafy vegetables into the diet increases the production and flow of bile, a substance that removes waste from the blood. Spinach, mustard greens, broccoli and cauliflower are good sources of glucosinolate, which supports enzyme production in the liver.
These natural enzymes flush toxins from the body thereby significantly lowering the risks associated with cancer,” Nyanzi says.
Fruits
Grape fruits are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, citrus fruits such as grapefruit, oranges, limes, and lemons support the natural cleansing abilities of the liver. “Their juice can boost production of the liver detoxification enzymes that help flush out carcinogens and other toxins,” explains Nyanzi.
Caution
Nyanzi warns that people should only take medication under prescription to avoid accumulation of toxins in the body. Restrain from self-medications and use of over- counter drugs.
Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol.
Symptoms
You may have a liver problem if:
• You develop jaundice (skin and eyes appear yellow)
• Swelling in the legs and ankles, tendency to bruise easily
• Dark urine colour, bloody or tar-colored stool
• Chronic fatigue, nausea or vomiting, loss of appetite
