Your liver is the largest organ inside your body, weighing between 3 and 5 pounds. It’s located on your upper right side below your lungs.
The American Liver Foundation (ALF) has outlined over 500 functions of the liver. Those include:
- Filtering blood all day, every day
- Producing bile to help you digest fats in your diet
- Helping to balance blood sugar levels
- Regulating blood clotting
- Fighting infections
- Processing drugs, medications, and even poisons
There are many types of liver diseases and conditions. More than 100 million people in the U.S. have some form of liver disease. Common ones include:
- Viruses and parasites
- Inherited conditions
- Cancer
- Damage from alcohol, fat accumulation (Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease), or certain medications or herbs
The ALF has outlined ways to love your liver. These include:
- Avoid unnecessary medications and don’t mix medications without the advice of a doctor.
- Drink alcohol responsibly and never mix alcohol with medications.
- Take your medications as prescribed or recommended by your doctor, as too much can cause liver damage.
- Be cautious with chemical sprays. Spray in a ventilated area and wear a mask.
- Get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B and be tested for Hepatitis C if advised by your doctor.
- Be cautious with tattoos, using only single needles and ink pots.
- Don’t share personal items such as razors or manicure tools.
- Get healthy exercise most days of the week.
- Eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet and keep your weight within normal limits. Include high-fiber foods such as fruits and vegetables and whole grains.
- See your doctor regularly and follow your wellness and treatment plans.
Your liver is essential to your life and health. Keep it happy and healthy!
For more information, go to https://liverfoundation.org/about-your-liver