Processed foods also include a host of other chemicals to maintain freshness and appearance, which your liver has to work to filter out. Your best bet for maintaining liver (and overall!) health is to minimize your consumption of prepackaged and processed foods, and prepare food from scratch using fresh ingredients whenever possible.
It is important to note that organic foods still may contain some residual pesticides, and the jury is still out on how much of a health benefit they provide. However, if you can afford to go organic, it certainly won’t harm your liver, and you will be helping the environment, as well. [4] X Research source
Practice good hygiene: remember to wash your hands after using the restroom or changing a baby’s diaper. Hepatitis B is commonly spread through unprotected sex, so always wear a condom. Do not share drug needles with another person, or come in contact with another person’s blood. Get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B.
If you have been drinking a lot, take a break from alcohol altogether. Your liver needs 2 weeks alcohol-free to begin the healing process. After this, try not to regularly exceed 3-4 units of alcohol per day (1. 5 pints of beer) if you are a man, and 2-3 units per day (1 pint of beer) if you are a woman. [13] X Research source
Even a single overdose of acetaminophen can be enough to cause catastrophic liver failure. Always consult with a pediatrician or pharmacist before administering acetaminophen to a child to make certain you have the correct dosage. Avoid alcohol when taking acetaminophen, and check with a doctor before mixing acetaminophen with other medications. Be extremely cautious when administering acetaminophen to children. Changes in labeling and dosage concentrations can be especially confusing. When in doubt, call your pediatrician or local pharmacist for precise dosing instructions. [15] X Research source Be on the lookout for hidden acetaminophen. Many medications contain acetaminophen that do not bear the name “Tylenol. " Multi-formula cold remedies, such as Nyquil, Alka Seltzer Plus, and even children’s medicines like Triaminic Cough & Sore Throat all contain acetaminophen. Read labels carefully, and be sure not to double-up on medications containing the same active ingredient. [16] X Research source
Always take these and other medications as directed, and ask your doctor or pharmacist before mixing prescription medications with any over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements, or alcohol. [17] X Research source Not all antibiotics carry the risk of liver damage, but it’s still best to avoid alcohol while taking them so that your body can heal quickly. [18] X Research source
Use natural cleaning products in your home whenever possible to reduce your exposure to chemicals. Consider using water and air filters in your home to reduce exposure to environmental toxins.
Loss of appetite. Nausea and vomiting. Diarrhea. Dark-colored urine and pale bowel movements. Pain in the right upper quadrant of your stomach. Jaundice: the yellowing of the skin and/or whites of the eyes. [21] X Expert Source Raj Vuppalanchi, MDAcademic Hepatologist Expert Interview. 26 October 2020.
Jaundice: the yellowing of the skin and/or whites of the eyes Pain in the upper right abdomen. Abdominal swelling. Nausea. Vomiting. Malaise: a general feeling of un-wellness. Disorientation or confusion. Unusual sleepiness.
