Without a functioning liver, the body cannot work properly since the liver plays more than 500 vital tasks in our bodies. One of the largest organs in the body, the liver is in charge of converting food into energy, purifying the blood, storing vitamins and minerals, and filtering and eliminating waste. Each of us has at least one habit—good or bad—that occasionally has an impact on our health and may also have an impact on the liver. The harm to the liver can sometimes be there even while we are unaware of how negatively our habits can influence it. When a habit is regular and consistent, harm is done over time without the person detecting any symptoms.

Functions of the liver

• The liver helps with bile production and excretion.
• Helps with excretion of bilirubin, cholesterol, hormone and drugs.
• Helps with metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
• Helps with enzyme activation.
• Helps with storage of glycogen, vitamins and minerals.
• The liver helps with filtration and digestion.

6 habits that can affect the liver

1. Not drinking enough water: We are all aware of how crucial water is to maintaining good health because it may help the body remove harmful substances. Even though the average person’s body contains 66% water, we are all required to drink at least 8 glasses of water each day to be alive. Our overall health and the function of our liver can be impacted by insufficient water intake.
2. Excessive alcohol intake: Some people reportedly think they can drown out their misery with alcohol, but this is untrue because ignoring your pains only lasts for a short period of time, and as the drink wears off, reality sets in. Alcohol abuse can impair the liver’s capacity to eliminate toxins from the body, which can cause inflammation and fatty liver disease.
3. Eating over processed foods: Highly processed foods are known to contain additives, preservatives, and flavorings, all of which can harm the liver. Because of the chemicals these foods contain, additionally processed foods might make it difficult for the liver to break them down.
4. Excessive sugar intake: Everyone enjoys sugar’s sweetness, yet it may be quite harmful to our health. Foods high in sugar, such ice cream, cakes, and soda, can be harmful to your health. Sugar can affect the liver, therefore it’s crucial to consume as little of it as possible each day. This is due to the fact that while numerous bodily cells can metabolize glucose, only the liver can do so with regard to fructose.
5. Engaging in unprotected sex: The risk of developing serious infections like Hepatitis C should be avoided when engaging in unprotected intercourse with several partners. A fatal liver condition called hepatitis C can be spread through unprotected sex.
6. Little or no exercise: The absence of regular exercise could increase the risk of obesity and liver problems. Exercise is crucial because it encourages the body’s pores to expand and increases sweat, which can aid with liver and overall body detoxification.

Foods that are healthy for the liver

• Antioxidants in grape fruits can help to naturally preserve the liver.
• Nitrates and the antioxidant betalains found in beetroot assist to lessen liver inflammation and oxidative damage.
• Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, and cauliflower are high fiber vegetables that contain a substance that modifies the detoxification process and shields the liver from toxic substances.
•  Nuts include essential elements such excellent fats, antioxidants, and Vitamin E that are beneficial for healthy liver function.
• Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fatty fish, assist in lowering liver fat and reducing liver inflammation.
• A diet high in olive oil lowers the risk of fatty liver in older persons since olive oil is known for its good fat.