The liver, a vital organ in the human body, quietly performs a number of essential functions that contribute to overall health and well-being. Among its responsibilities are blood filtration, detoxification and the production of essential proteins. Like any other vital organ, our liver needs some care and attention.
Liver health is important for overall well-being and one way to monitor it is through liver function tests. Here, we’ll explore what these tests are, how they can help identify critical health issues and some simple steps to maintain a healthy liver.
Understanding Liver Health
The liver is a multitasking organ that plays a vital role in maintaining our body’s balance. It helps in digestion, regulates blood sugar and detoxifies harmful substances. To ensure proper liver function, it’s essential to consume foods for liver health. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins in your diet. Foods for liver health include broccoli, garlic and turmeric, which are known for their liver health benefits.
Liver Disease
Despite its importance, the liver often works silently and we may not notice any signs of trouble until a problem becomes severe. Liver diseases can be caused by various factors, including excessive alcohol consumption, viral infections and obesity. Recognising liver disease symptoms early on is important for effective intervention. These liver disease symptoms may include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain and unexplained weight loss.
Liver Function Tests
Liver function tests are a set of blood tests that help assess the health of your liver. These tests provide valuable information about the levels of enzymes, proteins and other substances produced by the liver. When there’s a problem with the liver, these levels can be abnormal, indicating a potential issue. Taking liver function tests regularly can help identify problems at an early stage, allowing for timely intervention and preventing further damage.
Liver Health Tablets
In addition to a healthy diet, some people consider liver health tablets to support their liver function. These liver health tablets often contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are believed to promote liver health. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, as they may interact with medications or have side effects.
Preventive Measures for Liver Health
Prevention is always better than cure. Taking proactive steps to maintain a healthy liver can significantly reduce the risk of liver diseases. Besides eating a balanced diet, limiting alcohol intake and avoiding unnecessary medications, regular exercise is also beneficial for liver health. Physical activity helps control weight and reduces the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, a common liver condition associated with obesity.
Final Thoughts
Understanding and monitoring your liver health is an important aspect of maintaining overall well-being. Liver function tests serve as a valuable tool to identify potential issues before they become serious health concerns. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a nutritious diet and regular exercise, you can support your liver in its superhero role. Remember, your liver works tirelessly to keep you healthy, so give it the care it deserves.
Prioritise your health. Stay informed about your liver’s well-being. Book your liver function test online with Touchwood Pharmacy to catch potential issues early. Your health matters, take the first step today.
