Care for the Liver
The liver does a lot of work for the body and never complains when something's not right. This is unfortunate, because the liver can sustain a lot of damage before exhibiting any symptoms that might prompt a visit to a doctor. A little preventive care can prevent serious health problems in the future. The following steps will help you take care of your liver.
Instructions
1. Eat and drink in moderation. Excessive alcohol consumption damages the health of your liver, resulting in cirrhosis. Also avoid eating too much protein, which can cause mental confusion by overwhelming the liver, and too many carbohydrates, which can result in a fatty liver. Finally, take care not to ingest too much vitamin A and D.
2. Take care with medication. Many drugs are broken down in the liver. Acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, can be especially toxic if too many pills are taken. Be careful not to take more than one over-the-counter drug containing acetaminophen. Be wary of unregulated nutritional supplements, any of which can be toxic to the liver.
3. Practice safe sex. A common sexually transmitted disease is hepatitis. Hepatitis C can be fatal, and there is no vaccine to prevent it. Take care also not to share items such needles or toothbrushes that may be contaminated with body fluids of infected people, and to wash your hands often, especially after using the bathroom.
4. Get a vaccine for hepatitis A and B before traveling to an area where these diseases are prevalent as they can damage your liver's health. Do your best to make sure you consume only clean water and that fruits and vegetables are thoroughly washed and cooked before eating.
5. Protect yourself when using chemicals. Your liver can be damaged by toxic substances you inhale or absorb through your skin.
6. Protect your liver from blows. A well-placed punch can lacerate your liver.
Tags: your liver, , health your, take care, Take care