Healthy and Unhealthy Habits for Liver Health
Know about the habits of liver, healthy habits for strong liver, unhealthy habits that cause harm to liver and more.
Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 13th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Your liver is one of the hardest-working organs in your body. It helps with digestion, detoxification, energy storage, and much more. Keeping it healthy is crucial for overall well-being. However, many daily habits are seemingly harmless and damage your liver over time.
In this article, we’ll explore healthy habits that support liver function and unhealthy habits that harm it, along with practical tips to keep your liver in top shape.
Why Does Liver Health Matters?
The liver performs over 500 vital functions, including:
Filtering toxins from the blood
Producing bile for digestion
Storing vitamins and minerals
Regulating blood sugar and cholesterol
When the liver is damaged, it can lead to serious conditions like fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or cirrhosis. The good news? Many liver problems can be prevented or managed with the right lifestyle choices.
Consult General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Healthy Habits for a Strong Liver
1. Eat a Balanced, Liver-Friendly Diet
A nutritious diet supports liver function. Include:
Fiber-rich foods (whole grains, fruits, vegetables) – Helps flush out toxins.
Lean proteins (fish, chicken, beans) – Supports liver repair.
Healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil) – Reduces inflammation.
Antioxidant-rich foods (berries, green tea, garlic) – Protects liver cells.
2. Stay Hydrated
Water helps the liver remove waste efficiently. Aim for 8-10 glasses daily.
3. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity helps reduce fat buildup in the liver, preventing fatty liver disease. Even 30 minutes of walking daily can make a difference.
4. Limit Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol is a leading cause of liver damage. Stick to moderate drinking (1 drink/day for women, 2 for men) or avoid it altogether.
5. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity increases the risk of fatty liver disease. Losing even 5-10% of body weight can improve liver health.
6. Get Vaccinated Against Hepatitis
Hepatitis B and C can cause severe liver damage. Vaccination (for Hepatitis B) and safe practices (avoiding contaminated needles) help prevent infections.
7. Use Medications Wisely
Some painkillers (like acetaminophen) and supplements can harm the liver if taken in excess. Always follow dosage instructions and consult a doctor before starting new medications.
Unhealthy Habits That Harm Your Liver
Unhealthy habits that harm liver include:
1. Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Chronic alcohol use leads to fatty liver, hepatitis, and cirrhosis. Even occasional binge drinking can cause damage.
2. Eating Too Much Sugar and Processed Foods
High sugar intake (especially fructose) contributes to fatty liver disease. Avoid sugary drinks, sweets, and fried foods.
3. Smoking
Tobacco contains toxins that increase liver inflammation and cancer risk.
4. Overuse of Painkillers and Supplements
Excessive paracetamol (acetaminophen), NSAIDs, or unregulated herbal supplements can cause liver toxicity.
5. Ignoring Viral Hepatitis
Untreated hepatitis B or C can lead to liver failure or cancer. Get tested if you’re at risk.
6. Sedentary Lifestyle
Lack of exercise contributes to obesity and fatty liver disease.
7. Skipping Regular Health Check-ups
Early liver damage often has no symptoms. Regular tests (like LFT, ultrasound) help detect issues early.
When to See a Doctor?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:
Yellowing of skin/eyes (jaundice)
Persistent fatigue or nausea
Dark urine or pale stools
Swelling in the abdomen or legs
Final Thoughts
Your liver silently works to keep you healthy. Return the favour by adopting liver-friendly habits. Small changes like eating clean, staying active, and avoiding toxins can make a big difference.
Consult General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Consult General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
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