.webp)
Liver diseases refer to a range of abnormal conditions that negatively impact the liver. It is significant that the liver is an essential organ within the human body responsible for many critical functions, including detoxifying harmful substances, producing bile for digestion, and storing nutrients. Therefore, understanding the main causes of liver diseases and what aspects need to be considered to save your liver from malfunctioning is very important. Understanding causes will help you for early detection, prevention as well as management of your liver conditions effectively.
Causes of liver diseases:
Viral Infections:
Viral infections can refer to diseases caused by entering pathogenic viruses and virus particles into susceptible cells.
- Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through contaminated food or waste or unhygienic areas. This virus causes liver inflammation and affects the ability of the liver to function. This infection presents symptoms which include abdominal pain, jaundice, loss of appetite, intense itching, and joint pain.
- Hepatitis B and C: The Hepatitis B & C virus is transmitted through blood or sexual contact. Sometimes transmission of these viruses can come from mother to child during the child's birth. This infection can lead to severe complications and long-term liver damage. Therefore, it is recommended to treat infection at an early stage and prevent the risk of liver cancer.
Alcohol Consumption
According to today’s scenario, it is observed that excessive alcohol consumption is the most common and leading cause of liver disease across the globe. Our liver has its role in breaking down potentially toxic substances which involves alcohol. Excessive drinking of alcohol can damage the liver and take the form of enhanced fat within the organ and lead to inflammation as well as accumulation of scar tissues. The diseases caused due to Alcohol consumption include Alcoholic fatty liver disease, Alcoholic Hepatitis, and Alcoholic cirrhosis.
- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Alcoholic fatty liver disease also known as hepatic steatosis is referred to as the early stage of liver damage due to alcohol consumption. This disease is characterized by accumulating a significant amount of fat within the liver cells. This disease is most common among heavy drinkers and it is remarked that about 90% of heavy drinkers experience this form of the condition. The most common symptoms of this disease include discomfort in the area of the liver, fatigue, and weight loss. Therefore, people who suffer from Alcoholic fatty liver disease or experience this kind of symptoms need to reduce their alcohol consumption as well as consult a functional nutritionist to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle which will help them to recover with flying colors.
- Alcoholic Hepatitis: Alcoholic Hepatitis is a liver disorder that involves inflammation and liver cell damage due to alcohol abuse. According to the research, women are more likely to develop liver disease than men and it can also influence how your body processes alcohol. Some of the symptoms that stand out are fatigue, pain in the area of the liver, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
- Alcoholic Cirrhosis: When a person consumes alcohol in excess amounts it leads to the formation of scar tissues known as fibrosis. If fibrosis occurs excessively it results in alcoholic cirrhosis. This disease can lead to severe health complications including kidney failure, liver cancer, portal hypertension, and many others.
Non-Alcoholic fatty liver diseases
Non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases refer to abnormal conditions where an excess amount of fat is accumulated within the liver of people who consume less or no alcohol.
- Obesity: Obesity is associated with a spectrum of liver uncertainties which is known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease which is associated with increased intrahepatic triglyceride content. According to the research, Non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases have become a significant public health problem due to the potential progression toward severe liver diseases that are associated with cardiovascular and cardiometabolic uncertainties. The inflammation in the liver is caused due to high blood sugar levels and high blood lipids which can cause increased fat storage in the liver. Learn more about the causes of obesity
- When the body is more resistant towards insulin it can impact how the fats are processed by the liver which can further lead to fat buildup. The main reason for this dysfunction is excess body weight and insulin resistance. Also, people who have a decreased physical metabolism rate may lead to liver disorders. Therefore, it is recommended by doctors and nutritionists to have a proper balanced healthy diet and regularly exercise to reduce fat accumulation.
Medications and Toxins
- Medicines: Medications like paracetamol are usually used as pain relief and can harm the liver. Therefore it is very important to follow the recommended dosages and prevent exceeding those. In some cases, the medicines used for cancer, HIV and tuberculosis patients may have side effects that can cause harmful impacts on the liver. These medications can cause liver failure or other uncertain disorders.
- Toxins: Environmental toxins are also one of the reasons for liver diseases. High exposure to pollutants and heavy metals such as lead and pesticides can cause stress on the liver and lead to misfunctioning. People working in industries where environmental toxins are released such as paints and solvents can also face liver damage issues.
Therefore it is important to have a proper consultation with functional nutritionists who have proper knowledge about the dosage and medications that are good for your health.
Deep dive into Prevention and Management Strategies
Based on the information provided above that showcases the most common causes of liver diseases, here are the important recommended strategies that can be followed to prevent themselves from getting their liver trapped into jail.
- Follow a healthy lifestyle:
According to the latest research and studies, it has been found that a rich and balanced diet is proteins, seasonal fruits, vegetables and whole grains are the best sources of food that support liver function. A healthy lifestyle is a phenomenon where you make yourself as well as your body fit. To embark on your journey towards a healthy diet and lifestyle you need to limit inflammatory foods such as refined sugars and processed foods. Also, you need to exercise regularly which will help you to maintain a healthy weight as well as reduce the risk of fatty liver disease. Especially if you want your liver to live with you for a lifetime you have to say no to alcohol. To know more about the science behind nutrition you can catch up with our short course “Basics of Nutrition Science”.
- Vaccination:
Doctors recommend that getting vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B will potentially protect you against the viral infections that cause liver damage.
- Conduct Regular health check-ups:
Even though you feel your body is doing great, it is essential to have routine blood work/ blood tests that help in detecting risk factors like diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol at the early stage which can be cured by consulting the right person. Also if you are facing some issues with your health, always remember to keep a proper track and investigate the main cause of the issue which will help in resolving it sooner. We at iThrive offer Root cause analysis that unlocks the secrets of stubborn health and identifies the mysteries behind your health.
- Medication safety:
Excessive medicines or environmental toxins need to be addressed. You have to follow the prescribed medications carefully and always consult the right person before you take any kind of medication. You should be cautious about the ingredients and always check whether it is authorised by the government. Also, while working in industries where you get in contact with toxins you need to follow precautions and always cover your mouth with a mask which will help to prevent harmful substances from getting into your body.
Always remember a healthy liver will contribute to the overall well-being of your body. So, you have to think wisely and priorities your health to sustain your health and growth together. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance because not everyone’s health needs are similar. We at iThrive offer you personalised support based on your requirements, so you can book a consultation call with our expert functional nutritionists who will guide you towards your well-being.
