According to the World Health Organization (WHO), liver disease is the 10 th most common cause of death in India. World Liver Day is observed on the 19 th of April every year which gives us an opportunity to build awareness and understand the importance of healthy functioning of the liver. The liver is a very important organ in the body and should be considered on par with the heart or brain. The liver is a key player organ in our digestive functioning in our body and helps with all the metabolic processes. Let’s not forget the important functions of the liver in our body like which helps with the metabolic activity of what we consume like food, carbs, proteins, fats, and even medicines all pass through the liver.
The theme of World Liver Day - 19 th April 2021
The theme of World Liver Day this year is “Building a fairer, healthier world for everyone.“ The World Health Organization (WHO) revealed alarming figures how the pandemic COVID19 has affected the health of millions worldwide. This World Liver Day, the main idea is to ensure the highest standards of health for all people without any distinction of race, religion, political belief, economic and social condition. It is important to get this idea forwarded for the betterment of society especially for people who are dwelling in unhygienic conditions. It is important to take up this challenge to prevent infection and transmission of hepatitis and coronavirus.
Liver damage does not show up early signs
When the liver is not functioning well or damaged, it is very slow to complain, and it’s a very tough and hard part of the body when the liver damage does not show up any signs and symptoms. Often, people with liver problems are unaware as it does not show any visible signs and symptoms at an early stage. With current advancements and trending research, many treatments have come forward for a liver cure. But, it's important to build awareness about liver complications beforehand to avoid liver damage in the long run. It is important to get necessary vaccines against hepatitis infection which can cause liver disease in the future.
Complications of the liver can be avoided
Liver cancer today is the fifth most common cause leading to millions of deaths annually. The new developments and advancements in diagnosis and treatments have helped cure many patients. Regular health checkups are equally important and should be included by everyone in their routine health check-up. Screening should be done at an early stage to avoid any kind of problems pertaining to the liver. Daily monitoring of diet and lifestyle can help in long and healthy functioning of the liver. Active lifestyle and healthy diet should be given prime importance along with regular checking and screening of the body annually.
Causes of liver damage
Sedentary lifestyle Increase in intake of fatty fried and junk food Lack of fruits and vegetables in the diet High intake of alcoholic drinks Smoking Erratic eating habits Inherited or genetic causes relating to fatty liver Hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection Abdominal pain or swelling (ascites) High BMI makes you more prone to diabetes Thyroid disorder may lead to defective metabolism Obesity symptoms Increase or decrease in appetite Nausea and vomiting Generalized weakness of fatigue Enlarged liver Enlarged spleen Indigestion Sudden weight loss or weight gain Fever or malaise#Tips to maintain healthy liver
Adopt a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet Eat healthy food which is low in calories and fats. Include grains, proteins, vegetables, fats, green leafy vegetables, carrots, and beetroot in the diet Eat foods that are rich in antioxidants that can help you in aging your liver. Eat foods with a lot of fiber that aid in proper digestion. Include healthy fats like nuts and seeds Say “No” to alcohol, smoke, and drugs Exercise regularly like brisk walking for 45 minutes daily Drink clean and healthy water