There are more than 100 types of liver disease. “Liver disease can be inherited (genetic) or caused by a variety of factors that damage the liver, such as viruses and alcohol use,” the Mayo Clinic states.
Signs and symptoms of liver disease include:
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Bruising easily
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Swelling of legs and ankles
- Chronic fatigue
- Dark-colored urine
- Irritated, itchy skin
In addition to long-term alcohol use, there are many other causes of liver disease. Liver disease can stem from:
- Fat accumulating in the liver (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease)
- Genetic predisposition
- Infection from parasites and viruses
- Abnormalities of the immune system
- Cancer and cancerous growths of the bile duct and liver
Risk factors for liver cancer include:
- Unprotected sex
- Alcohol abuse
- Body piercings or tattoos
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Exposure to other people’s bodily fluids and blood
- Exposure to certain chemicals or toxins
Scientists Explain 9 Ways to Heal Liver Damage
Eat the right foods
This means eating plenty of antioxidants, veggies, and fiber. Some of the best liver-friendly foods include cruciferous veggies, olive oil, nuts, grapes, grapefruit, fatty fish, blueberries and cranberries, and coffee.
Lose weight if needed
Cutting back on alcohol is a great idea if you are overweight, as it helps shed extra pounds as well as safeguard your overall health. It has been scientifically shown that those who drink heavily are up to 4 times more likely to develop liver disease.Exercise regularly
Exercise works on two levels: it maintains a healthy weight and it boosts immunity to lower the risk of liver cancer and heal liver damage.Quit smoking
For those at risk of liver disease, smoking may cause further liver damage as it contains additives which are difficult to process.Quit alcohol or cut down
While alcohol in moderation is okay for most people, it is detrimental to those with a history of problematic drinking or other health problems.Avoid exposure to toxins
Avoid exposure to toxins whenever possible, including spray paints, fungicides, insecticides, and aerosol. If you must use them, cover the body and wear gloves.Monitor your medications
Medications which may cause liver damage include birth control pills, hormone replacements drugs, heart drugs, antipsychotics, and some OTC drugs,Protect yourself
Hepatitis, which can be transmitted through blood or sexual fluids, is one of the most common causes of liver damage. If you get pedicures, manicures, tattoo, or a piercing, ensure you are being serviced by a creditable shop.Consider supplementation
According to WebMD, “… antioxidant vitamins such as C, E, and beta-carotene; minerals such as zinc and selenium; B-vitamins that aid alcohol metabolism; and herbs said to cleanse the liver such as milk thistle, dandelion root, and schizandra might help protect liver cells while ridding our body of poisons.”
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